The Model Classroom Initiative (MCI) was conceptualized to improve learning and IEP goal attainment while decreasing maladaptive behaviors in specialized instructional program classrooms. The MCI Coaching Model was utilized to assist teachers with the implementation of MCI components in three specialized instructional program classrooms, all of…

The purpose of this quantitative correlational study was to determine if and to what extent a relationship exists between teacher self-efficacy and teacher perceived preparedness for instructing students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and teacher perceived efficacy for teaching in inclusive classrooms. Bandura's (1986) social cognitive theory…

It is widely acknowledged that girls are less likely to receive an autism diagnosis compared to boys (Gould, J. 2017. "Towards Understanding the Under-Recognition of Girls and Women on the Autism Spectrum." "Autism" 21 (6): 703-705), with growing recognition that girls are underserved by the current clinical diagnostic…

This meta-analytic review demonstrates that language interventions can improve oral language in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. We assessed interventions that target language skills in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The interventions had to use techniques ranging from explicit and structured activities (explicit…

The current study is the first repeated-measures design exploring the impact of child-centered play therapy (CCPT), an evidence-based child psychotherapy intervention, on autistic children's social-emotional assets, and emotional and behavioral problems across four times during intervention based on teacher reports. Participants consisted of 19…

Functional communication training (FCT) is an evidence-based intervention that while often effective, can result in rote responding, reduced generalizability of target behavior, and resurgence of challenging behavior (CB) during treatment lapses. Lag schedules of reinforcement have been successfully used to address these concerns. We applied an…

There is a growing body of evidence supporting the use of telehealth to provide parent training in behaviour analytic interventions and researchers have begun to focus on international demonstrations of this model. The current study assessed the efficacy of a training package focused on naturalistic teaching strategies designed to upskill parents…

For children with autism or intellectual and developmental disabilities who also have complex communication needs, communication is a necessary skill set to increase independence and quality of life. Understanding the how, where, and communication style being taught is important for identifying deficits in the field as well as which interventions…

Black & Brown college students with autism are missing in the higher education research surrounding the college experience and college readiness. This is important because understanding the college experience and readiness for students center many debates and research queries within higher education practice and policy (Carnevale et al., 2010;…

A hallmark symptom of autism includes restricted repetitive behaviors that manifest as special interest fixations. These interests can aid in building therapeutic relationships in art therapy. A retrospective review of clinical notes based in grounded theory identified 6 ways pop culture special interests function in the art therapy relationship:…

Background and aims: Although young children's gaze behaviors in experimental task contexts have been shown to be potential biobehavioral markers relevant to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), we know little about their everyday gaze behaviors. The present study aims (1) to document early gaze behaviors that occur within a live, social interactive…

Existing measures of communication challenges in autism are based on diagnostic criteria and research/clinical observations of autistic people, rather than what autistic people themselves identify as difficulties. In this study, the Conversation Questionnaire (CQ) was developed based on community engagement with autistic people to identify what…

Occupational Therapists often use interventions that support sensory processing. Interventions may include Ayres sensory integration, sensory based interventions or use of sensory input built into the childs routine. This quasi-experimental study explored the effects of a sensory activity schedule (SAS) on the on-task behaviors of children with…

It remains unknown to what extent mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are stigmatized. Children with ASD require special care to increase their attention and master the necessary motor and behavioural skills. In most society, particularly Middle East and Africa, mothers are largely the care providers for children while their…

Enhancing teachers' attitudes towards including students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are crucial for successful inclusive education. The current study, guided by self-determination theory, examined the effectiveness of mindfulness meditation on teachers' attitudes towards including students with ASD. Pre-service teachers (n = 65) were…