Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) refers to a composite group of related disorders marked by impaired communication and socialization and by a limited (and often uncommon) range of interests. Although sometimes not identified until school age, Autism Spectrum Disorders develop early in life and are life-long conditions with implications for education, social development, and communal adjustment. Autism developed an eligibility category for special education services. Since that time an enormous amount of investigation has been conducted about identification and operative interventions for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The good news is that information learned over the years has resulted in a wider definition of autism and many strategies for parents and instructors to use in supporting the development of these children, starting in early childhood. However, distinguishing misinformation from accurate information can be anintimidating task. It is critical that parents and educators understand this multifaceted disorder. Teachers and parents working together will help children achieve optimistic outcomes.

Early intervention, Learning Language, Education, Disability of children, Child Autism

[1] Bilmes, J. 2008. Beyond behavior management. St. Paul, MN: Redleaf. CCSSO (Council of Chief State School Officers), Early Childhood Education Assessment Consortium. 2008. Glossary. Washington.
[2] Hannaford, C. 1995. Smart moves: Why learning is not all in your head. Arlington, Va: Great Ocean Publishers.
[3] Jensen, E. 2001. Fragile brains—Damage to the brain and environmental influences can account for certain learning problems. Educational Leadership 59 (3): 32.
[4] Jensen, E. 2005. Teaching with the brain in mind. 2nd ed. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.
[5] NAEYC & NAECS/SDE (National Association of Early Childhood Specialists in State Departments of Education). 2002. Early learning standards: Creating the conditions for success. Joint position statement. www.naeyc.org/about/positions/pdf/position_statement.pdf.
[6] National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER). 2008. State standards database. http://nieer.org/standards/statelist.phpSchiller, P. 1999. Start smart: Building brain power in the early years. Beltsville, MD. GryphonHouse.
[7] Schiller, P., & C. Willis. 2008. Inclusive literacy lessons for early childhood. Beltsville, MD: Gryphon House.
[8] Shonkoff, J.P., & D.A. Phillips, eds. 2000. From neurons to neighborhoods: The science of early childhood development. Report of the National Research Council and Institute of Medicine.
[9] Washington, DC: National Academies Press. Sousa, D. 2006. How the brain learns. 3rd ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin.
[10] Willis, C. In press. Creating inclusive learning environments for young children. Thousand Oaks,CA: Corwin Press.