New Study: How ABA and ESDM Therapy Impact Kids with Autism Over Time
As parents of children with autism, we're always looking for information about what therapies work best. A new study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics (2025) investigated how two common therapies, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), impact children with autism over a longer period.
What the Researchers Studied
Researchers wanted to understand how children with autism change over time when receiving either ABA or ESDM therapy. They followed a group of children for several years, regularly assessing their development in areas like communication, social skills, and adaptive behavior (things like self-care and daily living skills). The study compared the progress of children receiving ABA to those receiving ESDM.
What They Found
The study found that both ABA and ESDM were associated with positive changes in children's development over time. Children in both groups showed improvements in communication, social skills, and adaptive behavior. While both therapies showed benefits, the researchers also looked for differences in the rate or type of progress between the two groups. The study suggested that children receiving ESDM showed earlier gains in social communication, while children receiving ABA showed more consistent gains across all areas as they got older. It's important to note that these are trends, and individual results varied.
Why This Matters for Autism Families
This study is helpful because it provides more information about the potential long-term benefits of ABA and ESDM. Choosing a therapy is a big decision, and understanding how these therapies might impact your child's development over time can help you make a more informed choice in partnership with your child's care team.
Practical Implications
- Therapy Decisions: This study reinforces that both ABA and ESDM can be effective interventions. The "best" therapy depends on your child's individual needs, your family's preferences, and the availability of qualified therapists.
- Communication with Therapists: Discuss the findings of this (and other) research with your child's therapists. Ask them how they tailor their approach to maximize your child's progress in specific areas.
- Realistic Expectations: Therapy takes time. This study highlights that progress happens over years, not weeks or months. Celebrate small victories and stay committed to the process.
- Individualized Approach: Remember that every child is different. What works for one child may not work for another. Regular assessments and adjustments to the therapy plan are crucial.
Limitations
It's important to be aware of the limitations of this study. Like all research, this study has some limitations. The sample size was relatively small, which means the findings might not apply to all children with autism. Also, this is just one study, and more research is needed to confirm these findings and explore other factors that might influence outcomes. It is also important to note that the study was published in 2025, so it is a relatively new study and further research may be needed to validate the findings.
Learn More
You can read the original research paper here: Longitudinal changes in children with autism spectrum disorder following ABA therapy or ESDM intervention
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with your child's healthcare providers for personalized guidance.
Read the study: Frontiers in Pediatrics
