Methods to improve autism

There is still no way to completely cure autism. However, according to experts, if intervention measures are well applied at an early stage, children will still be able to recover from defects and stabilize their lives.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

This method helps analyze, understand, and adjust the behavior of autistic children, more effectively for children under 5 years old. The goal of ABA is to teach children motor behavior, speech, social communication, and basic skills such as bathing and dressing. The therapist will give the child a specific task. Tasks are broken down into parts or sessions. Every time the child performs well, a reward is given to encourage the child. To be effective, children need 20-40 hours each week to participate in this activity.

Relationship development intervention (RDI)

RDI’s approach involves teaching children to be flexible in thinking and participate in social relationships. According to this method, autistic children first develop relationships with their parents and other close people such as relatives. To successfully train children, parental participation is very important. Parents should also spend time attending seminars and watching educational videos for autistic children to care for and educate their children.

Speech therapy

Speech therapy helps children communicate with people better. Non-verbal skills are also emphasized such as eye contact, gestures, sign language, and imagery. For effective speech therapy, therapists must communicate with parents, caregivers, and teachers to develop these skills for children.

Nutritional methods

Vitamin and mineral deficiencies affect brain development, which can lead to conditions such as autism. Parents should not feed autistic children a lot of sugar, unhealthy drinks and food preservatives. Added sugar can increase blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of hyperglycemia leading to hyperactivity. Hyperactive behavior easily appears in autistic children.

Iron is essential in the synthesis and formation of myelin – a neurotransmitter in the brain. Children need to provide enough iron according to their needs for the brain to develop normally. To improve concentration and the ability to stay calm, children need to supplement foods rich in amino acids. Because amino acids contain important proteins for brain activity, creating neurotransmitters.