New Parent’s Guide to Autism Spectrum Disorders

Support, guidance, and answers for families navigating a new ASD diagnosis

According to 2022 data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1 in 31 children (3.2%) aged 8 years has been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) through the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network.

As the number of children diagnosed with ASD continues to rise, it’s more important than ever for parents to understand the early signs of autism, the benefits of early intervention, and the evidence-based treatment options that can make a lasting difference in a child’s development.

 

At Autism Partnership, one of the world’s leading providers of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, we have supported thousands of families through their autism journey. We understand the uncertainty parents feel, especially after receiving a diagnosis.

1. What Are the Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior. The range and severity of symptoms vary significantly from one child to another.

Common symptoms of autism include:

  • Limited or no eye contact
  • Delayed speech or no speech at all
  • Repetitive behaviors (e.g. hand-flapping, lining up toys)
  • Difficulty engaging in pretend play or understanding social cues
  • Lack of response to name
  • Unusual sensitivity to sounds, lights, or textures
Don’t wait to seek help. Early detection and diagnosis can make a big difference.

2. Early Signs of Autism in Toddlers (18 months – 3 years)

Autism may start to show as early as 12–18 months. Parents can observe their child’s development across different milestones:

By 18 months: No pointing, waving, or use of single words

By 2 years: No two-word phrases, limited interest in other children

By 3 years: Repetitive play patterns, poor eye contact, difficulty with pretend play

We recommend a developmental screening or professional consultation if you’re unsure.

3. What Causes Autism? Can It Be Cured?

A common concern from parents is:

  • “Why did this happen to my child?”
  • “Can autism be cured?”


The short answer: There is no known single cause or cure.

Research suggests it is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. While ASD is a lifelong condition, early and intensive intervention—particularly ABA therapy—can help children make meaningful progress and improve their quality of life.

4. Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Child

Once a diagnosis is made, finding the right treatment becomes the next crucial step. With so many options and conflicting information, parents may feel uncertain.

Here are key questions to consider:

  • Is the treatment backed by scientific evidence?
  • Are the professionals qualified and experienced in treating ASD?
  • Is the approach individualized to my child’s unique needs?
  • What’s the recommended intensity and duration of therapy?

5. Common Misconceptions About Autism

Over the past 30+ years, we’ve heard countless myths that can mislead parents:

  • “My child will outgrow autism.”
  • “It’s caused by bad parenting.”
  • “Special diets or supplements can cure it.”
  • “ABA is too rigid or robotic.”

It’s important to base your decisions on facts and evidence, not fear or hearsay. Let us help you separate myth from reality.

6. The most widely used and scientifically proven treatment of ASD

There are many alternative therapies promoted online and among communities. However, most lack rigorous scientific validation. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) remains the most researched and effective treatment for children with ASD. It helps improve:
  • Communication skills
  • Social interaction
  • Learning and academic skills
  • Self-help and independence
With decades of research and thousands of success stories, ABA is the gold standard in autism treatment.

Book a Free 1-Hour Consultation

If you’re concerned about your child’s development or simply need professional guidance, we welcome you to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

During this session, our team will:

  • Assess your child’s strengths and developmental needs
  • Offer expert clinical advice on treatment priorities and schooling
  • Provide clear, compassionate answers to your questions

Let’s take the first step together

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Parents seeking treatment for their children’s Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are faced with an overwhelming number of treatment options. Cutting through the noise to identify Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) as the most effective treatment can be a difficult task. Unfortunately, even for the parents who have discovered that ABA has the most supporting research, the […]

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