A atuação e percepção de terapeutas ocupacionais na intervenção precoce com crianças com transtorno do espectro autista

Abstract

Introduction: Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) focuses on the prevention and identification of risks to child development, prioritizing natural contexts and family protagonism. This study aimed to analyze the practice of occupational therapy in early intervention and its impact on the development and quality of life of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Methods: Exploratory research with a qualitative approach. Data were collected through an online questionnaire applied to occupational therapists working from the early intervention perspective with children with ASD. Results and discussion: Twenty-three participants responded to the questionnaire, which was analyzed in the following categories: sociodemographic characterization of respondents, professional training and practice profiles, occupational therapists’ conception regarding the theme, and practice within the ECI perspective, including motivations for seeking specific training, challenges, and resources used.Conclusion: The professionals demonstrated an understanding of early intervention from various theoretical perspectives, recognizing it as a practice that brings significant benefits to the development of children with ASD in multiple aspects, while also presenting challenges, especially related to coordination with family, school, and the multidisciplinary team