Chapter 8

Upon completion of this chapter, you should be able to:

  • Understand the historical context of autism, its prevalence, and causal theories;
  • Understand the diagnostic classification and levels of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD);
  • Identify important early signs and understand screening of ASD;
  • Describe the characteristics and core impairments of ASD and associated conditions;
  • Understand sensory dysfunction and related behavioral characteristics of ASD;
  • Understand strategies, adaptations, and methods of working with children with ASD;
  • Describe the family’s role in the education of children with autism;
  • Understand the educator’s role in working with families of children with autism.
  1. Why has the rate of ASD increased during the last decades?
  2. What are your personal opinions about working with children with ASD?
  3. What are some issues to consider when deciding on an appropriate educational program for children with ASD?
  4. Why do you think collaboration with parents of children with ASD is important in educating children with ASD?