Autism spectrum disorder is the name for a range of similar conditions, including Asperger syndrome, that affect a person’s social interaction, communication, interests and behaviour.

In children with ASD, the symptoms are present before three years of age, although a diagnosis can sometimes be made after the age of three.

It’s estimated that about 1 in every 100 people in the UK has ASD. More boys are diagnosed with the condition than girls.

Some people with ASD like to stick to the same routine and little changes may trigger tantrums.

They can find it hard to understand other people’s emotions and feelings, and have difficulty starting conversations or taking part in them properly. Language development may be delayed, and a child with ASD won’t compensate their lack of language or delayed language skills by using gestures (body language) or facial expressions.

Unfortunately, there’s no “cure” for ASD, however, some therapeutic support can be put in place for someone with ASD to help hem lead an independent and meaningful life as possible.

We use such techniques as Applied Behaviour Analysis to support our clients with ASD: Applied behaviour analysis focuses on the principles that explain how learning takes place. Positive reinforcement is one such principle. When a behaviour is followed by some sort of reward, the behaviour is more likely to be repeated. Through decades of research, the field of behaviour analysis has developed many techniques for increasing useful behaviours and reducing those that may cause harm or interfere with learning.

Applied behaviour analysis (ABA) is the use of these techniques and principles to bring about meaningful and positive change in behaviour.