Autism Schools

With the possible exception of those individuals severely affected by autism, those afflicted can go to school. Not only are most autistic children capable of learning and progressing, free education of all disabled children is mandated by law. They will be in the mainstream of public education, with or without concurrent attendance in special education classes.

A few children are institutionalized, but most live at home with their families and are capable of learning appropriate behaviors to interact with other people in the outside world. Adults who have been unable to respond well to behavior modification may need to be in residential treatment programs. In many of these cases, they may have been born before treatment programs were as positive and progressive as they now are.

For children suffering from autism spectrum disorder, pervasive developmental disorder (PDD), or Asperger's Syndrome, private non-profit education centers exist in many, if not all, states. An example is The New England Center for Children, near Boston, Massachusetts. Parents from surrounding states, and occasionally from overseas, enroll their children in these dedicated schools.

What Are The Goals of Autism Schools?

The goal of education is to increase the ability of autistic children to function and to communicate successfully. Since the students are all at different levels, with varying skills, the programs are modified to fit each child. Staff members pay special attention to the psychological and physical well-being of each youngster, emphasizing safety.

Speech and language skills are close to the top of the list in priority. Also included in most schedules are academic topics, vocational training, and occupational therapy. Social and life skills are extremely important for the student to master. It is a great achievement when the autistic student is able to live independently and go on to a career.

Reaching out to family members, especially siblings whose own needs might otherwise be overlooked, is a vital part of the curriculum. Without the family and the student's community reinforcing the student's learning, much progress can be undone during a week at home. Some autism schools also accept day students.