Teaching Children With Autism in the General Classroom: Strategies for Effective Inclusion and Instruction in The General Education Classroom

Recent special education legislation has led to a rise in inclusion classrooms, where students with special needs, including autism spectrum disorders, are taught alongside their nondisabled peers. Teaching Children With Autism in the General Classroom provides an introduction to inclusionary practices that serve children with autism, giving teachers the practical advice they need to ensure each student receives the quality education he or she deserves. Promoting field-tested strategies and techniques, this book offers teachers sound advice for creating a classroom environment conducive to learning success for children with autism spectrum disorders. Topics covered include using assistive technology, collaborating with parents and paraeducators, teaching social skills, developing behavioral interventions, and creating effective academic instruction. This book gives general education teachers a solid background of knowledge about autism and the needs of students with the disorder.

Cynthia Simpson, PhD, is an associate professor and program coordinator for special education at Sam Houston State University and an educational consultant in the areas of assessment and inclusive practices. Vicky Spencer, PhD, is an assistant professor at Sam Houston State University. Her current research interests include instruction for students with disabilities and inclusive classroom settings.

Vicky G. Spencer, Ph.D., has served in the field of special education for more than 20 years as a special education teacher, educational consultant, and assistant professor. Vicky continues to remain actively involved in the field as she collaborates with special education teachers to implement cognitive strategies within the inclusive classroom setting. Vicky currently is an assistant professor and the Assistant Director of Operations at the Kellar Institute for Human Disabilities at George Mason University.

Cynthia G. Simpson, Ph.D., has more than 16 years of experience in the public and private sector as a preschool teacher, special education teacher, elementary teacher, educational diagnostician, associate professor of education, and administrator. She maintains an active role in the lives of children and young adults with exceptionalities as an educational consultant in the areas of assessment, inclusive practices, and transition planning. She currently is an associate professor and program coordinator for special education in the College of Education at Sam Houston State University.