To get our "When to Refer" packet, plus tons of trainings, monthly live calls, and an incredible community, join us in the NeuroAffirm Academy: https://neuroaffirmacademy.com/

Did you know that only 15% of autistic preschoolers receive early intervention before age 2?

That number should shock us all. Because the truth is, early intervention changes everything.

Every $1 invested in early intervention saves between $7 and $17 later in educational and social costs. But beyond money, it’s about giving autistic kids the best possible chance at thriving and giving families the confidence they need to support them.

On this episode, we're discussing:

✔️ Why doctors often miss early referrals (and how it leaves kids behind)

✔️ The real developmental milestones most parents don’t hear

✔️ The science-backed benefits of early intervention: higher language, higher IQ, less stress for families, and long-term cost savings

✔️ How to normalize early intervention so families feel supported

References:

Karoly, L. A., Kilburn, M. R., & Cannon, J. S. (2005). Early Childhood Interventions: Proven Results, Future Promise. RAND Corporation.

AEIOU Foundation. (2023). Investing in autism-specific early intervention yields long-term dividends. Report summary via The Sector. 

Rogers, S. J., Dawson, G., & Mandell, D. S. (2019). Early intervention for autism: Penn study finds significant cost savings. University of Pennsylvania / WHYY News.

Learn more about the largest online community of neuroaffirming therapists: https://neuroaffirmacademy.com/