Autism is a lifelong condition. While some children may show significant improvement, they don’t outgrow autism. A study from Boston Children’s Hospital found that nearly 40% of toddlers diagnosed with autism no longer met the criteria by age six, especially if they had better communication and self-care skills at the start.
However, this doesn’t mean they no longer need support. Even if a child no longer meets the formal criteria for autism, they may still face challenges that require ongoing support and intervention.
Early Intervention to Outgrow Autism
Maya, a 10-year-old with autism, had always faced challenges in social situations. As a toddler, she had difficulty making eye contact, speaking in full sentences, and engaging with other children. Her parents, initially worried, sought early intervention through speech therapy and social skills training.
Over the years, Maya’s progress was slow but steady—she started initiating conversations, participating in group activities, and even making close friends. While Maya didn’t “outgrow” her autism, she developed coping mechanisms that helped her thrive.
Her parents realized that autism isn’t something to outgrow but something to understand and manage, with each child finding their unique path to independence and success. For Maya, it meant embracing her differences and building on her strengths.
Autism is a lifelong condition, but early intervention can lead to significant improvements. If you’re concerned about your child’s development, contact Able Stars ABA today to learn how our personalized programs can support your child’s growth.