When it comes to supporting a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), understanding their specific needs based on their level of autism is key to effective therapy. ASD is a spectrum, meaning each child experiences a unique set of strengths and challenges.

Whether a child requires minimal, substantial, or very substantial support, the right approach can make all the difference. Tailoring interventions to match the autism child’s needs helps ensure they receive the most effective therapies, from speech and occupational therapy to behavioral interventions. By identifying and addressing these needs early, we set children with autism on the right track toward independence and success.

So, how can you be sure your child is on the right path with therapy? Let’s explore how understanding their level of support can guide the way.

What is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is categorized into three levels of support based on the severity of symptoms and the level of support a person needs to function daily. These levels are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5):

Level 1: Requiring Support (High Function Autism)

Description:

Individuals at this level typically have mild challenges with communication and behavior. They are often able to function in mainstream environments but may struggle in specific situations, such as social conflicts or adapting to new routines.

Therapy Recommendations for Autism Level 1:

• Speech Therapy:
  Helps address subtle communication difficulties, like tone, conversational skills, or understanding social nuances.
• Occupational Therapy (OT):
  Focuses on improving fine motor skills, sensory processing, and independence in daily tasks.
• Social Skills Training:
  Teaches how to manage friendships, resolve conflicts, and understand social cues.

Mainstream Integration:

• Most individuals at this level can attend mainstream schools or work environments with minimal accommodations.
• Occasional support may be needed for managing specific situations, such as resolving conflicts with peers, handling transitions, or understanding complex social dynamics.

Level 2: Requiring Substantial Support (Moderate Autism)

Description:

Individuals at Level 2 often face significant challenges with communication, social interactions, and adaptive behavior. They can function in structured settings but require consistent and substantial support for daily activities and social interactions.

Therapy Recommendations for Autism Level 2:

• Early Intervention Programs (EIP):
  Helps address developmental delays and build foundational skills at an early age, such as school readiness skills, communication skills, social skills, and self-help skills.
• Speech Therapy:
  Improves verbal and nonverbal communication skills, focusing on functional communication like requesting needs and engaging in basic conversations.
• Occupational Therapy (OT):
  Targets sensory processing issues, motor skill development, and independence in self-care tasks such as dressing, eating, and toileting.
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA):
  Addresses behavioral challenges, enhances learning through positive reinforcement, and builds skills step by step.
• Individualized Education Program (IEP) (for school-aged children):
  Tailored learning plans focus on their specific educational and developmental needs.

Mainstream Integration:

• Many individuals at Level 2 require Personal Learning Assistants (PLA) or shadow teachers to help navigate mainstream school environments.
• The PLA provides support in areas like following classroom routines, managing transitions, and participating in group activities.
• Regular accommodations and modifications are necessary to ensure success in mainstream settings.

Day-to-Day Support:

• Regular assistance is needed for basic social interactions, managing changes in routine, and completing daily tasks.
• Structured environments and consistent routines are crucial for managing their sensory and emotional needs.
• This level of support focuses on structured interventions and consistent assistance to build functional skills, independence, and adaptability over time.

Level 3: Requiring Very Substantial Support (low function autism)

Description:

Individuals at Level 3 experience severe challenges with communication, social interactions, and adaptive behavior. They often display intense repetitive behaviors, have significant difficulty coping with changes, and may have sensory sensitivities that impact daily functioning. Their support needs are extensive and often lifelong.

Therapy Recommendations for Autism Level 3:

• Intensive One-to-One Early Intervention Program (EIP):
  Provides highly structured and individualized interventions to build foundational skills and address developmental delays.
• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA):
  Focuses on managing challenging behaviors, teaching functional life skills, and promoting adaptive behaviors using intensive and tailored strategies.
• Speech Therapy:
  Works on developing communication skills, including nonverbal methods (e.g., augmentative and alternative communication systems) for those who are nonverbal.
• Occupational Therapy (OT):
  Addresses motor skills, sensory regulation, and daily living skills such as eating, dressing, and grooming to increase independence.
• Sensory Integration Therapy:
  Helps individuals manage sensory sensitivities or sensory-seeking behaviors, promoting better focus and engagement in daily activities.

Mainstream and Schooling:

• Most individuals at this level are unable to attend mainstream schools due to the intensity of their support needs.
• Special needs schools with smaller class sizes, individualized curriculums, and specialized staff are more suitable for their educational and therapeutic requirements.

Day-to-Day and Long-Term Support:

• They require intensive, hands-on support for nearly all aspects of daily life, including personal care, communication, and navigating their environment.
• Consistent routines and predictable environments are essential to reduce anxiety and improve functioning.
• Lifelong support is often needed, extending into adulthood, to ensure they can live with dignity and as much independence as possible.

Goal of Interventions for level 3 autism:

• Focuses on improving quality of life, fostering independence wherever possible, and teaching functional skills to reduce reliance on caregivers.
• Careful planning for adulthood, such as supported living or day programs, is vital to ensure long-term well-being.
• This level emphasizes intensive, multidisciplinary approaches to address complex challenges and provide the highest level of care and support.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding your child’s level of support is key to choosing the right therapy for their needs. With the right therapy, children with autism can make great progress in communication, behavior, and independence.

At Kidz Steps Centre, we provide personalized one-to-one Early Intervention Programs (EIP), social skills training, parenting coaching, and occupational therapy (OT) to support children with autism at every stage of their development. Our experienced team is here to guide you and help your child reach their fullest potential.

If you’re unsure about the right support for your child, contact us today to learn how we can help.