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From picky eating to repeated show viewings, ABA Centers of Florida offers the answers.
Top 10 Questions Parents Asked About Autism: At ABA Centers of Florida, we understand the journey of raising a child with autism comes with many questions. Parents of individuals with autism often find themselves navigating uncharted territory, seeking guidance and clarity about their child’s behavior, development, and therapy. To help, we’ve compiled answers to the ten most common questions we received from families across Florida last year.
Top 10 Questions Parents Asked About ASD in 2024
1. Why isn’t my child speaking?
A delay in speech is often one of the first developmental differences parents notice, leading to concerns about autism. It helps to understand the distinction between “nonverbal” and “nonspeaking” in autism, as each has unique implications. While some children develop alternative communication strategies like sign language or AAC devices, targeted ABA therapy can foster communication growth tailored to their needs.
Learn about nonverbal vs. nonspeaking communication.
2. Why won’t my child make eye contact?
Eye contact is a significant concern for many parents, reflecting broader worries about social connection. Children on the spectrum often struggle with direct eye contact due to sensory sensitivities or discomfort in social settings. By employing strategies that respect a child’s preferences, ABA therapy supports more effective and natural social interactions.
Read about social skills and autism.
3. Why doesn’t my child respond to their name?
When a child doesn’t react to their name, it can raise questions about their social engagement or auditory processing. This behavior sometimes stems from a broader profile like Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), which requires nuanced understanding and approaches. ABA therapy helps families address such challenges with empathy and effective techniques.
Explore Pathological Demand Avoidance and its implications.
4. Why won’t my child eat regular foods?
Selective eating, a common challenge among children with autism, is often linked to sensory sensitivities or preferences for predictable textures and flavors. Parents frequently ask how to introduce new foods without overwhelming a child. ABA therapy offers gradual and positive exposure methods to expand food choices.
Discover seven ways to tackle picky eating.
5. Why is my child aggressive?
Aggression in children with autism can result from frustration, sensory overload, or unmet communication needs. Parents understandably seek strategies to manage these behaviors safely and effectively. ABA therapy focuses on understanding triggers, teaching self-regulation, and promoting alternative ways to express needs.
Learn strategies for managing challenging behaviors.
6. Why does my child prefer to play alone?
Many children with autism enjoy solitary play, which may worry parents hoping to see social connections develop. This preference can be due to sensory sensitivities or comfort in predictable, independent activities. ABA therapy helps bridge the gap, fostering social skills in ways that respect a child’s boundaries.
Read about navigating playdates and autism.
7. Why does my child say the same things over and over?
Echolalia and repetitive language are hallmark behaviors in many children with autism. While these patterns can perplex parents, they often serve as a coping mechanism or a way to process information. ABA therapy provides tools to help children use language more flexibly and effectively.
Understand repetitive behaviors and their role in autism.
8. Why does my child repeatedly watch the same movies/videos/clips?
Repetition provides comfort and predictability for children on the spectrum. Watching favorite media on repeat may also be a sensory-seeking behavior or a way to process specific themes. ABA therapy encourages balance by integrating these interests into broader developmental goals.
Celebrate repetitive interests like Star Wars Day with ABA Centers of Florida!
9. Will my child outgrow autism?
Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference, but that doesn’t mean your child’s abilities are static. With early intervention and consistent support like ABA therapy, children can build essential skills, adapt to challenges, and reach their full potential.
Learn about the duration and effectiveness of ABA therapy.
10. When does ABA start to work?
One of the most pressing questions parents asked this year is how soon they’ll see results from ABA therapy. While every child progresses at their own pace, consistency in therapy is key. Many families notice positive changes within a few months of starting ABA services.
Find out why staying consistent with ABA is crucial.
Serving Families Across Florida
At ABA Centers of Florida, we’re proud to serve families with state-of-the-art clinics in Boca Raton, Jensen Beach, Orlando, and Tampa, as well as in-home services in Broward, Hillsborough, Martin, Miami-Dade, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, and Saint Lucie counties. With evidence-based therapy and personalized care, we’re here to help your child thrive.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, call us today at (772) 773-1975. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for your child.
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