Most parents can simply enroll their child in the local kindergarten and put their child on the bus in the fall. Parents of children with autism do have the option of allowing their school district to make decisions on their child's behalf -- based on evaluations, tests, and most likely a combination of available resources and finances. Many parents, however, want to take an active role in determining their child's school placement.
While it may seem obvious that the ideal setting for any child is a typical classroom with typical peers, that's not always the case for children with autism. And there are quite a few options available that range from highly specialized classrooms and private schools to full mainstreaming or inclusion. Each child with autism is unique. So...which setting is best for your individual child?
The answer, as always when it comes to autism, is -- it all depends. Interestingly, the choice of smaller/larger, mainstream/specialized isn't always based on a child's intellectual ability: typical school settings can be tough on even the brightest, most articulate children with autism. And even when a district works on accommodations, there may be severe limits to teachers' resources, support, and time.
Some questions to consider as you begin thinking about your options are:
- Is your autistic child verbal and engaged? If he is, he may be more likely to do well in a typical setting (though social, sensory and emotional issues may get in his way if they aren't specifically addressed).
- How are her academic skills? Some children with autism are advanced well beyond their typical peers, while others are far behind. If your child is already reading and doing math, it will be important to find a setting that accommodates her gifts as well as her challenges.
- Can he handle large groups? If loud noise and large groups are likely to cause your child to "melt down," a typical classroom or school could be a disaster -- even if your child is bright and verbal.
- Does she do well with a lot of sensory input? Bright lights, loud noise, stiff uniforms and other factors can sabotage even the most capable child with autism. It may be possible to minimize these issues, but if your child is very sensitive she may need a smaller, quieter setting.
- Does he have difficulties with focus? Some children with autism are easily distracted. Typical elementary school classrooms are loaded with mobiles, colorful posters, class pets, and a whole slew of tools for engaging -- and distracting -- a child with special needs.
- Has she had a tough time in typical classrooms in the past? If your child has found typical preschool easy to manage, she's much more likely to do well in a typical kindergarten. If not, that may be a warning to start slow and work your way into a more challenging environment.
- What kinds of programs can your public school offer? Some districts have classrooms and programs specifically set up for kids with autism. Others have general purpose special needs classes. Still others have no special settings, but integrate all children into typical classes. Find out what's available, and ask other parents how well each setting seems to be managed and supported.
- How well do local programs fit your child's needs and abilities? The vast majority of children with special educational needs are socially typical and academically challenged. Children with autism may be just the opposite -- and may throw in sensory challenges to make things even more difficult. As a result, a special needs classroom may be a poor match for your child if the teacher stresses academic remediation but assumes everyone will do just fine at recess.
- Are there local private or charter options that make logistical and financial sense for your family? In some communities there are a variety of private, charter, or co-op schools that may be worth considering for your child with autism. Don't assume that your district will pay for a private setting, though -- this happens more rarely than you'd think.
Once you've looked into your options and evaluated your child's particular strengths and needs, you'll be better prepared to make smart choices for your child's educational setting. Before you meet with your school, though, you'll need to learn much more about special education law and its significance for kids with autism. You'll also need some ideas about the kind of program you feel will work best for your child.
Sources:
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Questions and answers about no child left behind: update 2004.
Hayes, N. To accommodate, to modify, and to know the difference: determining placement of a child in special education or A504. New Horizons for Learning, 2000.
Iovannone, R., Dunlap, G., Huber, H., & Kincaid, D. Effective educational practices for students with autism spectrum disorders. Focus on autism & other developmental disabilities, 18(3), 150-166 2003.
Yell, M. L., Katsiyannis, A., Dragsow, E., & Herbst, M. Developing legally correct and educationally appropriate programs for students with autism spectrum disorders. Focus on autism & other developmental disabilities, 18(3), 182-192. 2003.
