ABSTRACT
The rising prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has increasingly become an important public health concern with significant impact on early intervention systems, schools, and communities. Children’s caregivers and other close family members often notice some early behavioral indicators associated with ASD before the age of two years, although the child may not receive a medical diagnosis until later. National efforts by government and private organizations are focused towards improving public awareness of early behavioral indicators facilitating accurate and earlier diagnosis, which enables children to access critical early intervention services. It is well documented that early intervention services play a critical role in maximizing outcomes and reducing debilitating impact for children with ASD (Hume, Bellini, Pratt, 2005; National Research Council, 2001; Rogers, 1999; Woods & Wetherby, 2003). This chapter provides an overview of the purpose of early intervention services, specific interventions available for children with ASD, and issues and factors to consider when examining early intervention services for children with ASD.
