ABSTRACT
Early intervention for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) represents one of the most exciting areas within disability. It is exciting in that so much is now known that can make major differences in the early life of a child with autism. These differences then have the chance of offering compounding benefits throughout the life span. Better assessment processes, including far greater use of screening tools, wider availability of services, and more knowledgeable service providers, persons who actually know about autism and helping families of children with autism, all contribute to the more positive picture. It is exciting because school programs are increasingly inclusive while being autism-sensitive, therein providing necessary services in less restrictive environments. Inclusion practices, coupled with better transition services, allow individuals with autism to achieve at levels that had not been considered possible until recently. It is also exciting in that parents tend to be very involved in helping their child and eager to learn how to teach skills and arrange environments. The federal Part C early intervention programs for children ages 0 to 3 years and their
families help to bring re-sources to this eagerness and provide a broad array of intervention options to families.
