Are General Education Classrooms Or Special Education Classrooms Better For A Child With Autism?

Oct. 23, 2008 -- Question: Is it better for a child with autism to be "included" in general education classrooms or educated in special education classrooms?

Answer: Well there's no one exact answer to that question because every child with autism or an autism spectrum disorder is different. It is important for parents and teachers to think about each child's strengths and weaknesses and determine the best individualized education plan for that child. I do recommend that IEP goals definitely emphasize language as well as social goals, which may include inclusion into a regular education classroom. Also, I think that IEP goals should balance academic learning as well as learning focused on the development of adaptive behavior skills. And those are types of skills that are required for independent community living, as well as self-care at home.