Therapy for Autism
in Massapequa & East Northport, NY
Children with autism often encounter challenges that extend beyond the neurodevelopmental spectrum. From social interactions to sensory processing difficulties, these hurdles may seem overwhelming. Our team at Sensational Development is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective pediatric therapy for children, teens, and young adults in Massapequa and East Northport, NY.
If your child is navigating the complexities of autism, we understand the unique challenges they can face. Our expert pediatric therapists will tailor treatment plans to your child’s specific needs to help them overcome their challenges. Keep reading to learn more about what autism is, its common symptoms, and how pediatric therapy can help children with autism gain independence and confidence.
What Is Autism?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition that leads to challenges with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Autism exists on a spectrum, which means that it manifests differently in each individual—in other words, children who have autism will not necessarily face the same challenges or experience the same symptoms as each other. Some children may experience a few mild symptoms, while others may experience significantly bigger challenges.
What Causes Autism?
The exact cause of autism is not yet known, but researchers generally agree that a combination of genetic and environmental factors can lead to the development of this condition. Some common risk factors may include genetic predispositions, advanced parental age, and complications during birth. It is important to note that, in decades of research, no reliable scientific study has found any link between vaccinations and autism.
Signs and Symptoms of Autism
Even though autism is a spectrum, there are some common symptoms that occur in children who have this condition, such as:
- Difficulty with social interactions and forming relationships
- Avoidance of eye contact
- Delayed speech and language development
- Repetitive behaviors or vocalizations (stimming)
- Obsessive or unusual interests
- Extreme sensory aversions to loud noises, clothing texture, lights, etc.
- Resistance to changes in routines with distress at even small changes
How Pediatric Therapy Helps Children with Autism
At Sensational Development, our skilled pediatric therapists conduct thorough evaluations to understand the unique needs of each child with autism. This personalized approach allows us to create a targeted treatment plan, combining occupational therapy and sensory integration therapy as needed.
Occupational Therapy for Autism
Occupational therapy focuses on building fine and gross motor skills, increasing independence in daily activities, and addressing specific challenges associated with autism. This can include improving self-care routines, enhancing organizational skills, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and increasing social skills.
Sensory Integration Therapy for Autism
Sensory integration therapy can be integrated with your child’s therapy plan to address the sensory processing difficulties that children with autism commonly experience. We work with children to improve picky eating habits, increase tolerance for sensory input, and much more.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If your child has autism, Sensational Development has the tools to help them overcome their challenges and experience better wellbeing. Give us a call at (516) 799-2900 to schedule an evaluation and we’ll work with you and your child to support their developmental journey. With our expert care, we’ll give your child the tools they need to build a sensational life.
