Despite general belief, offering early but effective therapy can increase IQ levels in autistic toddlers and improve their language skills and behavior.

Based on existing guidelines, children are screened for autism at the ages of 18 and 24 months. The necessary treatment, however, is not started unless the child passes 30 months of age.

"It's crucial, if we're going to offer screening at such a young age, that we can offer an intervention, and now we know we have methods that are effective," said lead researcher Geraldine Dawson.

According to the study published in Pediatrics, early age-appropriate intervention can prevent or reduce the debilitating effects of autism in young children diagnosed with the condition.

Compared to the traditional adult-directed Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), an innovative intervention known as the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) — designed to address the needs of autistic toddlers as young as 12 months old at their own house through encouraging the expression of positive emotions, promoting eye contact and rewarding social interaction — is more effective in improving the condition in affected toddlers.

"It's a very pleasing kind of therapy, kids are happy. It is play, and it can happen everywhere," said the new technique's inventor, Sally Rogers, adding that the new intervention provides a positive relationship between the child and therapist.

Scientists concluded that early intervention reduces disruptive behaviors and increases the independence of autistic children in the long-run, helping them to become more like other kids their age.

PKH/HGH