ABSTRACT
This chapter summarizes the current early childhood research on inclusion and discusses the effective practices of social inclusion. It introduces three programs specifically designed to promote social inclusion for young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), namely Learning Experiences and Alternative Program for Preschoolers and Their Parents (LEAP), Project Developmentally Appropriate Treatment for Autism (DATA) and Walden Early Childhood Programs. Practitioners can use the DEC Recommended Practices to guide their efforts to provide young children with disabilities inclusive learning opportunities that promote their development. The chapter outlines five key components of high-quality social inclusion, namely goal setting and planning learning opportunities; incorporating all young children in the classroom; utilizing tiered models of support; measuring and assessing inclusion; and training competent classroom teams and staff. It concludes with recommendations for future directions in supporting young children with ASD in socially inclusive settings.
