Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is now being diagnosed in 1 in every 31 children aged 8 across the U.S., according to the CDC’s most recent data. Here in Maryland, the rate stands at 1 in 38—a number that signals both a rise in awareness and the growing importance of early intervention.
This increase is not simply a statistic. It’s a wake-up call for families, educators, and care providers to act early, act thoughtfully, and act with the right support systems in place. That’s where we come in.
Early Detection is Working—but There’s More to Do
One of the most promising findings in the CDC’s latest report is that children are being diagnosed earlier than ever. Four-year-olds in 2022 were nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed by age 4 than eight-year-olds had been at the same age. That means we’re catching developmental delays earlier and setting more children up for long-term success.
Maryland is leading the way in some key areas:
- Black and Asian/Pacific Islander children had the highest rates of identification in the state, indicating more equitable access to diagnostic services.
- Girls are being diagnosed more frequently than in the past, although boys still outnumber girls in overall prevalence.
- The prevalence among 4-year-olds (1 in 41) is now nearly equal to that of 8-year-olds, which shows significant progress in early detection efforts.
But identification is just the beginning. What happens after diagnosis can make all the difference.
Why ABA Therapy Is More Essential Than Ever
Autism affects every child differently. That’s why individualized, evidence-based approaches like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy are vital. ABA focuses on improving specific behaviors such as communication, social skills, self-care, and learning readiness. When started early, it can be life-changing.
As awareness grows, so does demand for high-quality autism services. In Maryland, we’ve seen firsthand how early, consistent ABA therapy can help children reach developmental milestones and build greater independence over time.
How We Support Families Through ABA Therapy in Maryland
At Steady Steps, we’re proud to offer personalized ABA therapy in Maryland designed to meet each child’s unique needs. Our team is deeply committed to early intervention, progress monitoring, and family involvement—because we know it takes a team to help a child thrive.
We serve families throughout Maryland, including Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, Harford, and Howard counties—the same areas highlighted in the CDC’s latest report. We’ve been closely following the data and using it to improve the way we deliver care, every day.
It’s Time to Take the First Step
Whether your child has just received a diagnosis or you’re noticing early signs of developmental delay, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Get in touch today to learn more about how our customized ABA therapy in Maryland can support your child’s development and empower your family with the tools you need to succeed.
