New Study: How ABA and ESDM Therapies Impact Kids with Autism Over Time

As parents of children with autism, we're always looking for information about what therapies work best and what we can expect for our kids. A new study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics (2025) sheds some light on how two common therapies, ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) and ESDM (Early Start Denver Model), impact children with autism over several years.

What the Researchers Studied

Researchers wanted to understand how children with autism change over time when they receive either ABA or ESDM therapy. This kind of study, called a longitudinal study, is valuable because it follows the same children for an extended period, giving us a better picture than just looking at a snapshot in time.

Specifically, the study looked at a group of children diagnosed with autism and tracked their progress for three years. Some children received ABA therapy, while others received ESDM. The researchers measured different skills and behaviors at the beginning of the study and then again each year for three years. These measurements included things like communication skills, social interaction, and adaptive behaviors (like daily living skills).

What They Found

The study found that both ABA and ESDM therapies were associated with positive changes in children with autism over the three-year period. In other words, on average, kids in both groups showed improvements in their communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviors. The researchers found that the amount of improvement was similar between the two groups. This suggests that both therapies can be effective ways to support development in autistic children.

Why This Matters for Autism Families

This study is encouraging because it reinforces that early intervention can make a real difference in the lives of children with autism. It also suggests that parents have options! Both ABA and ESDM appear to be beneficial. This is important because every child is different, and what works best for one child may not be the best fit for another. Knowing that there are multiple effective approaches can empower parents to work with their therapists to choose the therapy that best suits their child's individual needs and learning style.

Practical Implications

Therapy: This study supports the use of both ABA and ESDM. Talk to your child's doctor or therapist to determine which therapy, or combination of therapies, is right for your child.
School: Share this information with your child's school team. Understanding the potential benefits of these therapies can help educators create a more supportive and effective learning environment.
Daily Life: Remember that progress takes time. This study highlights the importance of consistent therapy over several years. Celebrate small victories and stay committed to supporting your child's development.

Important Considerations

It's important to remember that this is just one study. While the results are promising, it's crucial to consider the limitations. For example, the study likely had a limited number of participants, and further research with larger groups of children is needed to confirm these findings. Also, every child responds differently to therapy, and these are average results. Your child's individual progress may vary.