🧩 AUTISM THERAPY UPDATE: SCHOOL-BASED INTERVENTIONS FOR AUTISM (2026)

As parents, you're deeply invested in your child's success, both at home and in school. Exciting new research is focusing on how to best support autistic children within the school environment. Here’s a look at the latest and greatest.

🔬 WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS

Recent studies highlight the importance of comprehensive, multi-faceted approaches to support autistic children in schools. Several key areas are being explored through ongoing clinical trials and funded grants:

✅ **School-Based Peer Engagement* The "Remaking Recess" program (part of the UNITED study) is designed for children aged 5-12. It focuses on fostering social interaction and peer engagement during recess.
✅ **Family Navigation integrated with School Support* The UNITED study combines "Remaking Recess" with "Mind the Gap" (family navigation for younger children) and "SDMLI" self-advocacy training for adolescents, creating a continuum of support from early childhood through young adulthood.
✅ **Training for School Staff* The TEAMS project is investigating how to improve the use of evidence-based interventions by providers in school settings, using AIM HI (mental health) and CPRT (classroom strategies).

💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS

These studies emphasize that effective support for autistic children in schools involves:

📌 **A Holistic Approach* Addressing social skills, peer interactions, and self-advocacy across different age groups.
📌 **Collaboration* Connecting families, schools, and providers through navigation and training.
📌 **Evidence-Based Practices* Ensuring that interventions used in schools are grounded in research and proven effective.

🛠️ PRACTICAL TIPS

💙 Talk to your child's school about available social skills programs and peer support initiatives. Ask if they are familiar with programs like "Remaking Recess."
💙 Inquire about family navigation services that can help you connect with school resources and advocate for your child's needs.
💙 Discuss with school staff how they are trained in evidence-based practices for supporting autistic students.

📖 READ MORE

🔗 https://clinicaltrials.ucbraid.org/autism
🔗 https://ucla.clinicaltrials.re....searcherprofiles.org

💬 What school-based supports have you found most helpful for your child? Share your experiences in the comments below!