My Personal Research Journey

The topic I have chosen for simulation is Autism in early childhood settings.  This topic is dear to me because of my connection to individuals with disabilities in my professional work experience.  I have worked with several individuals with Autistic spectrum disorder and have knowledge of clinical views and practices when supporting adults who are diagnosed.  I would like to expand my outlook of this disorder from a clinical experience to a educational outlook when meeting early childhood needs.  There has been much controversy over the years of the cause and treatment of this disorder which I would like to compare to classroom settings.  The subtopics I have included are:    
Addressing Physical and Emotional Needs

Children with autistic spectrum disorder have physical and emotional needs that differ from those of most children in early childhood educational settings.  The idea behind this subtopic is to understand the facts and myths about these children’s needs and what it takes for a classroom to support those needs.

Inclusive Teaching Strategies

This subtopic attempts to define effective teaching strategies in combined classrooms that benefit not only children with autism but also everyone in the group.

Benefits and Challenges of Socialization

Isolation of children with autism does not sound like the best way to help integrate them as individuals in the larger society.  Thus providing opportunities for socialization with other children seems to be important in helping autistic children develop social skills.  However, challenges also exist when reaping the benefits of socialization that parents and educators need to understand and consider when developing strategies for integration in early childhood settings.

Coming from a background of case management and counseling, it is important for me to incorporate my knowledge and experience in to my new ventures.  My future goal is to open an inclusive child care/ learning center.  Has any one had any experiences teaching children with this particular disorder?  If so, I would appreciate any insight or sharing of your experiences.  Or perhaps any research of which may be beneficial.