efore age 3

Up to 3 years of age, some children may benefit from treatment through their state's early intervention
program. Families work together with a team of experts on an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
This plan defines the goals of treatment and develops a treatment plan.

A team of therapists can provide in-home therapy to those families who are eligible to benefit from this
service.

Services may also be available at clinics associated with hospitals or at community centers. Health
insurance can reimburse for many of these services.

From 3 years

Eligible children between the ages of 3 and 5 with ASD can benefit from free early childhood education
services thanks to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Therapy and further education
services are offered through local school districts or other educational centers, either at the child's home
or in the classroom.

Once children begin Kindergarten, parents can request a change to an individualized education program
(IEP) through their local school district. An IEP can include educational goals, as well as social,
behavioral, and personal care goals. Special education services are available until the person turns 21.

Hospitals, medical centers and clinics that offer health services to children often have services for
children with ASD. Both public and private behavioral health clinics may have specific services for
children with ASD. Independent centers for treating autism offer services that children with ASD can
benefit from.

Medications are sometimes used to treat symptoms such as aggression, hyperactivity , inattention,
anxiety , depression, and sleep-related problems.

There is not much research showing the beneficial effects of many approaches to treating ASD, such as
changes in diet; supplements; music, art and animal therapy.