Children with early signs of Autism receive supports in their first year of life

Children with early signs of Autism receive supports in their first year of life

Research underway for many years at La Trobe University has been supporting the very early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorders in infancy and toddlerhood with the view of promoting optimal development by access to early intervention. Recent research by Sally Rogers and her colleagues of the MIND Institute, published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders this week describes the first controlled study documenting outcomes of infants with signs of Autism who received supports in their first year of life, well before the age at which Autism is usually diagnosed.

Translating evidence-based supports into effective childcare programs for young Autistic children – yes we can!

Translating evidence-based supports into effective childcare programs for young Autistic children – yes we can!

There is increasing evidence that intensive implementation of educational programs can be efficacious in improving outcomes in young children with autism. One of the most promising early support programs is the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), a play-based support program specifically targeting the educational needs of preschoolers with autism. Research conducted in the US indicates that the program is efficacious in the context of intensive individual home treatment.

An adult resting their chin on clasped hands before a vibrant cityscape, reflecting a moment of contemplation

The emotional life of Autistic people

How do Autistic individuals perceive and engage with the social world? This blog post explores groundbreaking research using eye-tracking technology and a conversation with a 12-year-old Autistic boy named Ludwig. Discover how autism influences social understanding and why simple interactions, like a guessing game, reveal deeper insights into the unique ways Autistic individuals process social information.