Expert: Tim Runner - 9/20/2007

Question
My son is currently 3 yrs old.  I have him placed in a daycare where there is 1 child I am told has autism.  This child is very violent and hyperactive.  He yells, hits, bites and kicks.  He speaks in sentences re:  "She took my toy!", " I want to play with that".  I was under the impression by research that autism is defined when a child tends to withdrawal and is unable to interact with others socially.   I am concerned about the time taken away from the class by constant correction and redirection of this child.  Not to mention his violent behavior.  Are there any guidelines as to how autism integration is to be handled.  I heard of a "shadow", where the child is to have his own assistant/aide.  Any information would be appreciated.  Thank you.  Tammy:-)

Answer
Tammy,
You do not say whether the daycare you son attends is private or public. If it is private, you have a right to speak to the director and ask that something be done about the other child's verbal and physical abuse of the other kids, including your son. If appropriate action is not taken, then you might consider attending a different daycare. If this is not possible, then you should see if they can assign an aid to work with this child. It really doesn't matter wether the other child has autism or some other problems, this child will be best served by properly working with him to correct his behaviors. There are many different methodologies of working with children having behavioral problems. It sounds like some of them needs to be put in place.
I wish you and your son the best,
Tim Runner, Education Advocate
You can learn more at my web site:
www.special-education-answers.com