- Behavior therapy utilizes rewards and the positive reinforcement approach to train positive behaviors and reduce negative behaviors. The most widely used method under behavioral therapy is ABA or Applied Behavior Analysis. ABA helps autistic people interact better with other people, encourages them to play, and improves overall verbal and nonverbal skills. It also helps eliminate negative behaviors such as stimming (such as rocking or twirling repeatedly) and self-injury.
- Occupational therapy on the other hand teaches autistic people the necessary skills they need for everyday living. The occupational therapist teaches children and adults about basic routines for caring for themselves. Children learn how to dress themselves, brush their teeth and feed themselves during meals. They learn how to become more independent and self-sufficient.
- Changes in diet and nutrition are also a technique in managing autism's symptoms. Having a gluten-free and casein-free diet is one example of such a change. Gluten, a form of protein, can be found in oats, wheat, rye, and barley. Casein is another type of protein that comes from dairy food products. This diet is based on a theory that claims that these types of proteins are absorbed quite differently in autistic children, and resemble opiates in the chemicals of the brain. Although there are no scientific studies to support this claim, families that have employed this diet have reported better bowel and sleeping habits, and an overall positive behavior in autistic children according to Help Guide.
You may have to consult with a nutrition specialist to determine the healthy execution of a gluten-free, casein-free diet, especially when searching for substitutes and alternatives to fiber, protein and vitamins in the diet of finicky eaters. Food supplements and vitamins such as magnesium, vitamin B and C, and Omega-3, may also be used, depending on the doctor or nutrition expert's advice. Keep in mind that this form of diet therapy will not cure autism symptoms, but is only meant as a complimentary technique to managing autism.