Early Intervention (EI) is one of the most effective and scientifically supported approaches for helping young children with autism. In Kerala, parents often notice early signs such as delayed speech, limited interaction, sensory differences, or repetitive behaviors — but are unsure how to begin therapy, where to go, or whom to trust.

This guide explains exactly how to access early intervention services for autism in Kerala, step-by-step.

Pranaah Psychological Services & Child Development Centre, Kollam — established under the leadership of Dr. Devi Raj, a respected Psychologist, Licensed Early Interventionist, and Certified Life Coach — has helped thousands of families in Kerala understand autism and begin structured early intervention.

 

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Access Early Intervention Services for Autism in Kerala

 

Step 1: Identify Early Signs of Autism

Parents may observe:

• Delayed or absent speech

• Limited eye contact

• Not responding to name

• Repetitive movements

• Sensory sensitivities

• Preference for routines

• Difficulty playing with peers

• Limited gestures or communication

If two or more of these signs appear consistently, it is recommended to begin evaluation.

 

Step 2: Get a Developmental Screening

In Kerala, the first screening can be done by:

• Child psychologists

• Developmental pediatricians

• Early interventionists

• Multidisciplinary Child Development Centres (CDC)

Tools like M-CHAT, behavioral checklists, parent interviews, and observation help identify risk levels.

 

Step 3: Visit a Child Development Centre for a Comprehensive Assessment

A proper autism assessment involves:

• Developmental history review

• Communication analysis

• Social interaction evaluation

• Sensory profiling

• Behavioral assessments

• Play-based observation

• Psychologist-led testing

Centres like Pranaah CDC, Kollam, offer complete assessment + therapy planning under one roof.

 

 Step 4: Start Early Intervention Immediately (Do Not Wait)

You do not need a hospital certificate or medical board approval to begin therapy.

Early intervention typically includes:

✔ Speech & Language Therapy

For communication, joint attention, imitation, understanding, and expression.

✔ Occupational Therapy (Sensory Integration)

For sensory processing, sitting tolerance, motor skills, feeding, writing readiness.

✔ Behavior Therapy (ABA-Informed)

For routines, social behavior, emotional regulation, reducing challenging behaviors.

✔ Special Education / Early Learning

For pre-academic skills, cognitive development, readiness for school.

✔ Parent Coaching

Home routines, behavior management, sensory diet, communication techniques.

Early support changes developmental outcomes dramatically.

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Step 5: Choose the Right Centre Based on These Criteria

✔ Multidisciplinary team (Speech + OT + Behavior + Psychology)

✔ Led by trained professionals

✔ Parent reviews and credibility

✔ Clear therapy plan

✔ Periodic reassessment

✔ Child-friendly environment

✔ Ethical, evidence-based practices

Pranaah CDC follows all of these standards under Dr. Devi Raj’s leadership.

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Step 6: Ask for a Personalized Early Intervention Plan (EIP)

A good program must include:

• Child’s current developmental level

• Clear goals (communication, behavior, sensory, learning)

• Weekly therapy schedule

• Parent home plan

• Sensory diet (if needed)

• Review every 3–6 months

Avoid centers that offer same-plan-for-all-children therapy.

Step 7: Access Government Support (Optional but Helpful)

In Kerala, families may apply for:

• Disability certificate (Autism category)

• KSSM therapy support schemes

• Social Justice Department early intervention programs

• Inclusive education support in schools (IEDC)

• Early intervention funds for low-income families

Pranaah guides parents on what documentation is needed.

Step 8: Consistent Follow-Up Is the Key

Children progress best when:

• Therapy is regular

• Parents follow home routines

• Goals are reviewed periodically

• School and therapists collaborate

• Emotional support is provided at home

Pranaah provides review sessions, progress monitoring, and continuous parent guidance.

 

Why Early Intervention at Pranaah CDC, Kollam?

Under the leadership of Dr. Devi Raj, Pranaah provides:

• Holistic, child-centered intervention

• Autism assessment and diagnosis

• Speech, OT, Behavior Therapy, Special Education

• Sensory integration–based OT

• ABA-informed behavior programs

• Parent empowerment & life-coaching-guided support

• More than a decade of experience supporting Kerala families

Parents across Kollam, Trivandrum, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and NRIs overseas trust Pranaah for scientific, ethical, and compassionate autism care.

 

 Meta Description (SEO Optimized)

How to access early intervention services for autism in Kerala? Step-by-step guide for parents. Learn how to start autism assessment, therapy, and support under Dr. Devi Raj at Pranaah Child Development Centre, Kollam.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the right age to start early intervention for autism?

The best age is 18 months to 6 years, but intervention can begin at any age.

2. Do I need a doctor’s referral to begin early intervention?

No. Parents can directly visit a Child Development Centre like Pranaah.

3. Who provides autism assessment in Kerala?

Child psychologists, developmental pediatricians, early interventionists, and multidisciplinary CDCs.

4. What therapies are included in early intervention?

Speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavior therapy, sensory integration, early learning, and parent coaching.

5. How do I know which therapy my child needs?

A professional assessment identifies the child’s strengths, challenges, and goals.

6. Can early intervention be done online?

Yes. Parent coaching and some behavior/speech modules can be done online.

7. How long will my child need therapy?

Depends on the child's developmental needs and progress. Many show good improvement within 6–12 months.

8. Is early intervention available across Kerala?

Yes. Through Child Development Centres, autism clinics, hospitals, and accredited therapy centers.

9. Can early intervention help nonverbal children?

Yes. Many children begin communicating with structured intervention and parent involvement.

10. Can children with autism attend regular school?

Yes — with early support and individualized recommendations.