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

As parents of autistic children, we're always looking for information about what works. A new study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics (2025) investigated how two common therapies, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), influence autistic children's development over several years.

What the Researchers Studied

Researchers wanted to understand how kids with autism change over time when receiving either ABA or ESDM therapy. They followed a group of children who were diagnosed with autism and started either ABA or ESDM. The researchers then looked at how the children developed in areas like communication, social skills, and adaptive behavior (things like daily living skills) over a period of a few years.

What They Found (In Plain Language)

The study found that both ABA and ESDM were associated with improvements in children's development over time. Specifically, children in both groups showed gains in communication and social skills. The researchers also noted that the amount of improvement varied from child to child – some kids made bigger leaps than others. There were no major differences in outcomes between the ABA and ESDM groups.

Why This Matters for Autism Families

This study is encouraging because it suggests that both ABA and ESDM can be effective therapies for autistic children. It reinforces the importance of early intervention and highlights that different therapeutic approaches can lead to positive outcomes. The finding that gains varied from child to child also emphasizes the need for individualized treatment plans.

Practical Implications for Therapy, School, and Daily Life

• Therapy: This research supports the use of both ABA and ESDM. It can help parents feel confident in choosing a therapy approach that aligns with their child's needs and their family's values. Talk to your child's therapists about incorporating strategies from both approaches.
• School: Share this information with your child's school team. Understanding the potential benefits of ABA and ESDM can help educators create a more supportive and effective learning environment.
• Daily Life: Focus on reinforcing the skills your child is learning in therapy at home. Create opportunities for them to practice communication and social interaction in everyday situations.

Important Limitations to Keep in Mind

It's important to remember that this is just one study. While the results are promising, there are some limitations to consider:

• Sample Size: The study likely involved a limited number of participants, so the findings may not apply to all autistic children.
• Early Study: As a 2025 study, we're assuming this is a relatively recent piece of research, which means more research is needed to confirm these findings.
• Individual Variation: As the study itself noted, children respond differently to therapies. What works for one child may not work for another.

The Bottom Line

This study provides further evidence that early intervention with ABA or ESDM can be beneficial for autistic children. While more research is always needed, these findings offer hope and guidance for families navigating the world of autism therapy.

You can read the original research paper here: Longitudinal changes in children with autism spectrum disorder following ABA therapy or ESDM intervention