Question: What Does it Mean to Mainstream a Child with Autism?
I've been told my child with autism will be "mainstreamed" at school. What does that mean? Is it a good idea?
Answer: Mainstreaming is a somewhat old-fashioned term (the newer term is "inclusion"). When the term mainstreaming is used, it generally describes a setting in which your child is part of a typical classroom with minimal extra support. Some accommodations may be in place, but in general your child is expected to be able to behave appropriately in a large group, attend to a teacher, and do work at or near grade level.
Mainstreaming generally works best for children who are high functioning and at least moderately social. It may be especially tough for children who are non-verbal, very anxious, or likely to act out when under stress.
Sources:
US Department of Education. Building the Legacy: IDEA 2004. Department of Education: 2004.
