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Do Children with Autism Get Special Education?

Priya Anand

PsyD, BCBA

Priya found her way into ABA through developmental psychology, and she's spent the last 13 years focused on the earliest years.

Yes, children with autism are eligible for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Schools provide individualized support through an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which outlines goals, accommodations, and therapies tailored to each child’s needs.


Special education may include smaller class sizes, structured routines, visual supports, and therapies such as speech or occupational therapy. These services are designed to help children succeed academically while also building social and communication skills. Importantly, special education is not one‑size‑fits‑all; it adapts to the child’s strengths and challenges.


Parents play a vital role in the process, working with educators and therapists to ensure their child receives the right support. When combined with evidence‑based approaches like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), children can make meaningful progress both in school and daily life.


At Steady Strides ABA, we partner with families to provide ABA therapy in Texas that complements special education, helping children thrive at home, school, and in the community.


Want to learn how ABA therapy can support your child’s education journey? Contact us today!


SOURCES:


https://sites.ed.gov/idea/about-idea/



https://www.understood.org/en/articles/individuals-with-disabilities-education-act-idea-what-you-need-to-know


https://wapave.org/idea-the-foundation-of-special-education/


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Individuals_with_Disabilities_Education_Act


https://www.askresource.org/resources/six-principles-of-idea


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