NECC was featured on Chronicle (Boston Channel 5). View the spot here.

By Kendyl Murtaugh (WCVB, Channel 5)

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that shapes how a person communicates, interacts, and experiences the world. Studies show that when one child in a family is diagnosed with autism, younger siblings are more likely to receive the same diagnosis — an insight that underscores the importance of early detection.

That’s where the Early Markers For Autism Project comes in. Managed by the New England Center for Children (NECC) in Southborough, Massachusetts, this long-term study aims to identify signs of autism in infancy. By spotting markers earlier, researchers hope to make early intervention the standard — helping children access support and therapies during the most critical stages of development.

For more than 50 years, the New England Center for Children has been a leader in autism education and research. The Southborough campus serves as both a school and a hub for innovation, providing day and residential programs for more than 200 students aged 3 to 22 with profound autism and complex needs. At NECC, science and education come together to create a community dedicated to understanding autism — and improving lives.