Science shows that early detection of Autism Spectrum Disorders, when followed by the right interventions, can lead to better outcomes for children affected by autism. These include improved language, social, and adaptive functioning, and a reduction in inappropriate behaviors. It is important to identify and refer children with ASD as early as possible to New York State's Early Intervention Program.

Applied Behavior Analysis is used as part of a child's treatment plan under early intervention or special education service programs for children diagnosed with an Autism Specturm Disorder, or ASD.

Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA, is the application of the experimental analysis of behavior to human affairs. Specifically, it has been defined as:

• “The science in which procedures derived from the principles of behavior are systematically applied to improve socially significant behavior to a meaningful degree and to demonstrate experimentally that the procedures employed were responsible for the improvement in behavior.”

(Cooper, Heron, & Heward, 1987)

• “The field of psychology concerned with analyzing and modifying human behavior."

(Miltenberger, 2000) 

For more information on ABA treatments for young children: 

Clinical Practice Guideline: Report of the Guideline Recommendations: Autism / Pervasive Developmental Disorders
This guideline for assessment and intervention for young children aged 0 to 3 years was developed by an independent panel of professionals and parents and was sponsored by the New York State Department of Health's Early Intervention Program. This report includes assessment methods for children with possible autism and intervention methods, including behavioral and educational approaches, other experimental approaches and medication and diet therapies.
http://www.health.state.ny.us/community/infants_children/early_intervention/disorders/autism/#contents

How Can I Tell If A Recommended Treatment For Autism Is Legitimate Or A Quack Treatment?
This video Q&A with Lori Warner, Director, HOPE Center for Autism, Beaumont Hospital's Center for Human Development helps parents evaluate different treatment options after their child is diagnosed with Autism.
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/AutismTreatment/story?id=5387584

YAI Autism Center “Ask the Expert” Videos
The “Ask the Expert” video series, produced by the YAI/National Institute for People with Disabilities Network Autism Center, provides general information on autism spectrum disorders. Each month, the producers choose a few questions of general interest to be answered by an expert in the field. The videos currently in the series include interviews with Dr. Vincent Carbone, an expert on learning environments for people with autism, and Dr. Temple Grandin, author, educator and one of the most accomplished and well-known adults with autism in the world.
http://support.yai.org/site/PageNavigator/Autism%20Center%20Microsite%202008/learn_askexpert