ABSTRACT
Current research on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has established a combination of several genetic and environmental factors that interact with each other as the possible causes of autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is currently diagnosed as a single disorder with three levels of severity. A level 1 ASD is the highest functioning level and includes highly verbal and often academically successful children who lack social skills, whereas a level 3 ASD is the lowest functioning level and a severe form of autism, which includes children with acute sensory impairments and social communication deficits. Core deficits of ASD are social communication deficit, social interaction deficit, and restricted and repetitive behaviors, activities, and interests. Impairments in these areas usually accompany sensory processing issues, which together result in a variety of developmental and behavioral characteristics.
There are several research-based educational methods available for ASD today. A sound educational program for a child with ASD consists of methods and adaptations that are carried out by a team collaborating along with the family members. In addition, early childhood educators have the delicate responsibility of providing appropriate support for the families when needed so that they help alleviate the stress level in the family.
