CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) RESOURCE CENTER Read More
Add To Favorites

Autistic Kids Not Getting Enough Help

Daily News-Record - 5/23/2017

Kids with high-functioning autism or Asperger's do not receive the help they need in public schools. Kids with autism who get good grades are not considered eligible for an individualized education program or special education services, even though their doctors recommend one.

The child is placed in a regular classroom and is punished for being "disruptive," even though these symptoms are a recognized part of autism spectrum disorders.

Children are denied services, which would benefit them simply because they are "too smart." A high IQ does not mean they do not have problems with executive function, motor skills, social skills and speech. One in every 68 children is diagnosed with autism. Why aren't our schools equipped to handle them?

Amy McMullen

Harrisonburg