September 11, 2019
Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a complex developmental disability. In most cases, symptoms of autism develop in early childhood. ASD is a spectrum condition, so each individual is affected differently, and different therapies and approaches may be important for each child.
Early intervention for kids with autism can change lives and help them on the path to happiness and success. At St. Mary’s Kids in Roslyn, NY, we offer comprehensive evaluation, assessment and diagnostic services for children with an autism spectrum disorder. In addition to initial assessments, we can work with families to develop comprehensive plans to help kids develop their skills and live their best lives.
Making an Autism Diagnosis
Autism is more common than in the past or is at least being diagnosed more frequently. In a 2018 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the authors noted that one out of every 59 children born across the U.S. is on the spectrum. This is twice the rate of diagnosis in 2004 when one in 125 children was diagnosed. The increased prevalence of autism diagnoses means that much more attention has been paid to develop effective, caring, child-centered therapies that emphasize each child’s strengths and unique needs.
Early Diagnosis Changes Lives
Some of the more commonly noted signs experienced by children on the spectrum that prompt parents to call St. Mary’s Kids in Roslyn for an assessment include the following:
- Delayed learning of spoken language
- Little response to language-based games or play
- Repetitive motions or “stimming,” like twirling items or flapping hands
- Avoiding eye contact
- Lack of interest in social relationships or play with peers
- Disinterest in make-believe games
- Specific, narrow interests or fixations on specific objects or topics
- Sensory problems, discomfort with clothes, foods or temperature changes
- Motor skill delays
As a spectrum condition, autism affects each child differently. Some people need more supports and therapies than others. Early intervention is important to help kids improve their learning, communication, and social skills and do well in a school environment.
Services at St. Mary’s in Roslyn
St. Mary’s Kids at Roslyn offers a range of services, all of which are uniquely tailored to each child and family’s individual needs. Our highly trained BCBAs and ABA technicians travel to community settings or homes to provide treatment in a comfortable, relaxed environment. We work with multidisciplinary professional teams to make sure that each child is receiving the most advanced standard of care possible.
ADOS/A-BLLS/VB-MAPP Assessments
These assessment tools help to determine a child’s level of comfort with the language. They are also used by professionals to see how well a child is progressing with a treatment or therapy program and to identify the least restrictive, best school environment to support their learning.
Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP)
These assessments identify behaviors of concern and look at ways to track a child’s behavior to positively support their engagement in school and other learning environments. They can identify trigger situations and develop strategies and plans to best benefit the child.
Parent Training/ School Professional Collaboration
Children do best when parents, professionals, and schools work together to achieve great outcomes. At St. Mary’s, we work to build great relationships that help kids learn and grow. We work with each child to become their independent best.
BCBA/ABA Therapy with supervision
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a type of therapy that works to improve behaviors like academics and social skills. At St. Mary’s, our ABA programs have a high level of supervision to help ensure exceptional outcomes and a supportive, positive environment. Our supervisors work closely with families and professionals on your child’s team to assure carry over and generalization of skills for your child’s success.
Transitional planning and preparation
Planning for the future is important for kids and families, and St. Mary’s can help people prepare to take those next steps. We will collaborate, refer and assist in applications in programs for your child’s future.
Social skills programs
Our evidence-based social skills programs help all kids to develop friendships and positive working relationships with peers and others. We offer social skill research-based protocol programs and executive function programs to address organizational skill development.
If you would like to find out more about services for children with autism, contact St. Mary’s in Roslyn at 516-621-2681. We work with children in Nassau, Suffolk, and NYC, and insurance is accepted.
