Effective Strategies for the Inclusion of Children With Autism in General Education Classrooms

Successful inclusion of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in general education classrooms can be challenging and may require additional supports. This article provides information on recent trends in autism intervention research and a review of research that has addressed individualized and systemic interventions for promoting inclusion. Response to intervention and schoolwide positive behavior support are reviewed as organizational/ systems strategies relevant to preventing problems and improving social and academic outcomes for students with ASD. Additional individualized strategies that can be implemented within these models are described. A discussion of future research directions is provided.