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From speaking to eating to watching the same programs repeatedly, ABA Centers of America provides the answers
Raising a child with autism can bring unique challenges, particularly when navigating the questions that often arise as parents seek answers about their child’s development. At ABA Centers of America, we’ve heard countless concerns from families striving to understand autism and provide the best support possible for their children. Below, we’ve compiled and answered the top 10 questions parents frequently asked about autism last year, with insights from our experienced team of professionals.
Top 10 Questions about Autism Parents Asked in 2024
Why Isn’t My Child Speaking?
Delays in speech and communication are often among the first signs that prompt parents to seek an autism diagnosis. While every child develops at their own pace, speech delays in autism are tied to challenges in processing language or initiating communication.
At ABA Centers of America, we work on building communication skills through proven techniques such as verbal behavior therapy, which helps children connect words to their needs and experiences. Whether your child is nonverbal or delayed, therapy can open doors to meaningful communication.
Why Won’t My Child Make Eye Contact?
Eye contact is a common concern among parents, as it’s a natural way humans connect socially. In children with autism, avoiding eye contact may stem from sensory sensitivities or difficulty interpreting social cues.
Rather than forcing eye contact, our therapists at ABA Centers of America focus on creating comfortable interactions. Over time, children often become more comfortable engaging on their terms.
Why Doesn’t My Child Respond to Their Name?
A child not responding to their name can be an early indicator of autism. This behavior may reflect difficulty processing auditory information or a lack of interest in social interaction.
Through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, our specialists use positive reinforcement to encourage responsiveness, helping children strengthen their engagement with others.
Why Won’t My Child Eat Regular Foods?
Selective eating, or “picky eating,” is a common challenge in children with autism. Textures, tastes, and even colors can be overwhelming. This issue can be stressful for families trying to ensure their child gets proper nutrition.
ABA therapy often includes feeding programs, where we address food aversions in a step-by-step manner. With patience and persistence, children can expand their diet and enjoy mealtime with their families.Why Is My Child Aggressive?
Aggression in children with autism can stem from frustration, sensory overload, or difficulty expressing needs. Parents often feel overwhelmed when managing these behaviors.
At ABA Centers of America, we focus on identifying triggers and teaching alternative ways to communicate emotions. By understanding the root cause, we can work toward reducing aggressive behaviors and fostering a calmer environment.
Why Does My Child Prefer to Play Alone?
Parents often worry when their child shows a preference for solitary play. This behavior may reflect challenges with social skills, such as taking turns, sharing, or interpreting others’ emotions.
Through structured social skill-building activities, we help children learn how to connect with peers, opening up opportunities for friendships and collaboration.
Why Does My Child Say the Same Things Over and Over
Repetitive speech, also known as echolalia, is associated with children and autism. It can serve as a way for them to process language, seek comfort, or express excitement.
Our therapy programs at ABA Centers of America aim to channel echolalia into more functional communication. For example, if a child repeats, “Do you want juice?” we might teach them to reframe it as “I want juice.”
Why Does My Child Watch the Same Movies or Videos Repeatedly?
Repetitive viewing is also associated with sensory-seeking behavior or a preference for predictability. Watching familiar content can be soothing and provide a sense of control in a world that feels unpredictable.
While encouraging new experiences, we also respect these preferences, integrating them into learning opportunities. For instance, a child fascinated by a specific character might practice social scripts or problem-solving through that interest.
Will My Child Outgrow Autism?
Autism is a lifelong condition, but that doesn’t mean your child won’t grow, learn, and thrive. Many skills develop through therapy, and many milestones accomplished.
At ABA Centers of America, our mission is to unlock your child’s potential by providing tools that empower them to succeed, no matter what the future holds.
When Does ABA Start to Work?
One of the most frequent questions we receive is about the timeline for ABA results. While every child is different, families often see initial improvements in communication, behavior, and engagement within the first few months of consistent therapy.
Consistency is key, and at ABA Centers of America, we partner with families to create individualized care plans tailored to each child’s unique strengths and needs.
The ABA Centers of America Difference
At ABA Centers of America, we pride ourselves on delivering compassionate, evidence-based autism care. With locations across New Hampshire and Massachusetts, our team helps families navigate the challenges of autism with expertise and empathy.
If you have questions about your child’s development or are considering ABA therapy, contact us at (844) 923-4222 or schedule a consultation here.
Empowering families, unlocking potential, and transforming lives—it’s what we do at ABA Centers of America. Together, we can create a plan to help your child thrive.
