Early intervention in autism has become possible as a result of early identification. The developmental approach tries to understand the pervasive impairment of the developmental process in autism. The objective of this article is to analyze some early intervention programs that adopt this approach. The different programs main characteristics are presented by the five most important areas: nonverbal communication, imitation, sensory processing, peer play and family. In conclusion, results concerning treatments effectiveness are commented.
autistic children; early intervention; childhood development