Inclusive Programming for Middle School Students with Autism/Asperger's Syndrome

Middle school presents unique challenges to those with autism / Asperger's, but it can also be exciting and rewarding. Inclusive Programming addresses transitioning to and from middle school, and everything in between: hormones, cliques, bullying, aggression, and "fitting in." The ingredients for success are pre-planning, frequent monitoring of progress, teacher training, and regular communication between all concerned. Add committed teachers, peer mentors/tutors, sensible allowances for individual students' needs (extra test time, visual/oral format, concrete language, less or different homework, a sensory-safe environment, social skills training) as called for, and you have a recipe for success. You'll find many helpful charts/resources in the Appendices.  Helpful chapters include:

• Autism in a Nutshell
• Inclusion Discussion
• Profiles and Characteristics of Middle School Students
• Formation of an Individual Education Plan (IEP)
• Behavior Programming in Middle School
• Academic Issues of Middle School Students
• Social Programming
• Collaborative Roles