Systematic Intervention for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Integration in Regular School Classes: A Naturalistic Study

Abstract

Objective of the present study was the assessment of the effect of a systematic community intervention offered at an early age to 32 children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), 2 to 5 year after completion of treatment while attending public school classes. The intervention had been offered at a community Day Centre and lasted 3 years. On assessment all children showed clinical improvement and significant results on Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) and Vineland Adaptive Scales and 13 scored below criteria for autism on Autism Diagnostic Observation Scale-2 (ADOS-2). Most performed adequately at school whilst 12 required academic assistance. No major disruptive behavior difficulties were reported.