A Q&A guide for parents to understand therapies, their role, and how they can support their child at home.
Why are therapies important for autistic children?
Therapies are not a cure, but they help children develop everyday skills. They support communication, social interaction, learning, and emotional control. Small practical gains such as asking for help, eating independently, or tolerating new sounds reduce frustration and increase confidence.
Which therapies are most common?
Speech therapy helps with speaking, understanding language and using gestures or pictures. Occupational therapy teaches daily skills such as eating and dressing and helps manage sensory sensitivities. Applied Behavior Analysis supports learning through positive reinforcement and reduces challenging behavior. Music and art therapy give nonverbal outlets for feelings and can reduce stress. Yoga and exercise help with focus and self-regulation.
How should parents choose a therapy?
Each child is different so start with a professional evaluation. Choose one or two therapies that meet the most urgent needs. Set simple goals such as using one new word or eating a snack alone and review progress regularly. Consistency and small daily practice are usually more effective than trying many therapies at once.
What can parents do at home?
Follow the therapist's simple exercises daily even for a short time. Use pictures or a visual schedule to show routines. Break tasks into small steps and praise effort. Keep routines predictable and reduce sudden changes. Stay calm during meltdowns and avoid punishment. Small, consistent home practice makes therapy work better.
How long does therapy usually take?
Therapy is typically long term. Some children show measurable progress in months while others need years of support. Progress can vary and is not always steady. The objective is gradual skill building and increased independence over time.
Are group therapies helpful?
Group activities such as social skills classes or play-based groups are helpful because they provide real-life practice. Children learn waiting turns, sharing and social routines that are harder to practice in one-on-one sessions.
Note: This is general guidance. For personalised advice, consult a professional.