Children with autism have behavioural problems, hyperactivity, their sitting tolerance is affected, speech deficits and repetitive behavioural issues. All these problems affect their learning, understanding, perception and comprehension. Not all children with autism have mental retardation or learning disability but many a times their autistic traits hinder learning.
Hence it is very important that to cater to their special needs they undergo special education. Children over the age of three receive assistance through school-based programs. As with early intervention, special education services are tailored to your child’s individual needs. Children with autism spectrum disorders are often placed with other developmentally-delayed kids in small groups where they can receive more individual attention and specialized instruction. However, depending on their abilities, they may also spend at least part of the school day in a regular classroom. The goal is to place kids in the least restrictive environment possible where they are still able to learn.
Firstly the child needs to be evaluated and based on this assessment; an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) will be created. An IEP outlines the educational goals for your child for the school year. Additionally, it describes the special services or aids the school will provide your child in order to meet those goals.
“If a child can’t learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn.”