A non-governmental organisation, Hadassah Developmental Care and Nutrition Foundation, has called for early intervention and greater societal support for children living with the developmental disorder spectrum.

According to Adegoke Comfort Oluwatosin, the foundation’s Partner and Manager in Nigeria, early intervention for children with developmental disorders (such as autism) is critical within the first three years of life to leverage high brain plasticity, improving cognitive, social, and communication skills.

Adegoke spoke during an awareness walk to mark World Autism Day, which was held on April 2. According to her, the initiative was aimed at educating the public on the signs of autism and the importance of a timely response.

According to her, autism is a developmental disorder that affects children’s ability to meet expected milestones, particularly in areas such as speech and social interaction.

She added that though signs of autism are often present early, lack of awareness has led many parents and caregivers to overlook them, thereby delaying critical intervention.

She stressed that early intervention, especially between the ages of two and three, significantly improves outcomes, particularly in speech development.

“Without timely therapy, certain brain functions may decline through a process known as ‘neuropruning,’ where inactive neurons are eliminated by the body.

“When you give early intervention, there are therapies that help stimulate those neurons and encourage them to function. A lot of children improve significantly and can grow to live independently. On the other hand, if there is no early intervention, these children grow up to be totally dependent on others.

“Children on the autism spectrum should not be neglected or written off, noting that many possess unique talents and abilities.

“A lot of them are good with their hands. They can become artists, drummers, or keyboard players. Even if they do not excel academically, there are vocational skills they can develop and thrive in,” she said.

World Autism Day is observed annually on April 2nd to raise global awareness, promote acceptance, and celebrate the rights and lives of individuals with autism. Established by the United Nations in 2007, the day highlights the need for inclusive policies in education, healthcare, and employment.