Mainstreaming, the inclusion of a child with a documented disability such as autism in a regular classroom setting, is one of the main proponents of our educational system. Access to a free, appropriate, public education is one of the entitlements provided to ensure that no student is discriminated against because of his or her disability.

Determining the most appropriate educational setting for a child with autism must be decided on a case by case basis because of the varying degrees of severity and symptoms presented by each individual child.

Autism is a neurological disorder that affects brain function. If affects each individual differently and manifests itself in varying degrees. It is usually characterized by a lack of social interaction and verbal communication; many autistic children do not speak and pull back from direct contact with others. Four years ago it was estimated that 1 in 500 students was autistic. The current estimate is 1 in 250.

A high functioning autistic child should be mainstreamed into a regular classroom. They benefit from being with "normal" students who model socially acceptable behaviors and the autistic child may begin to assimilate these behaviors into their own life. Having an autistic child in the classroom also benefits all the children involved in that they will become more familiar with differing behaviors and be less afraid when dealing with another person with a disability.

On the other hand, some children have more severe autistic tendencies and are better served in a self-contained setting with teachers and aides that are familiar with their behaviors and are trained in techniques to best handle the situation. Sometimes even a certain odor or a loud noise can trigger an episode of rage and fear in an autistic child. Many have no sense of danger and must be constantly monitored to ensure their safety.

My nephew has twin boys who are both autistic. When they were young they appeared to be normal, but they never spoke and refused to have any contact with another person, even their family members. As they got older it became more and more difficult to deal with their behaviors and it was deemed best that they be schooled in a self-contained unit. Brad thought is was great fun to use a banister in the house as a tight-rope and thought nothing of attempting to walk the entire length of the railing. (His grandmother quit babysitting for them after than episode because it scared her so much.) Both boys are still in diapers that must be fastened with special tape because they tend to remove the diapers if the mood strikes them.

While both are still non-verbal, Andy can communicate after being taught how to use a specialized computer voice program. That was a real break through for everyone, and one that probably would not have been available to him had he been in a normal classroom.

The twins are almost eighteen years old now and I haven't yet heard what plans are being made for their future. I do know that, for them and others with similar characteristics and behaviors, mainstreaming would never have been an option. Though mainstreaming is a good idea, it is not appropriate for all. Each case must be determined on an individual basis to ensure that each child is placed in the setting that is the best for him.

Learn more about this author, JoAnn Powell.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Mainstreaming the autistic child?
We want to hear your view. Write now!