Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is exactly that, a spectrum. No two children with autism are exactly alike, which is why individualized support is critical. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures that children with disabilities, including autism, receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). One of the most important tools for delivering this support in schools is the Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Creating an effective IEP starts with understanding a child’s unique strengths and needs, especially as they relate to their level of autism. Clinicians and educators commonly categorize autism into three levels of support. Let’s explore how IEPs can and should be tailored to each level of autism.
Level 1 Autism (Mild Support Needs)
Children with Level 1 autism often have relatively mild social and communication difficulties. They may function well in general education classrooms with some targeted support. However, they still face challenges with social cues, flexible thinking, and organization.
IEP Considerations for Level 1:
- Social Skills Training: Inclusion of group or one-on-one sessions focusing on conversation, emotional regulation, and peer interactions.
- Speech Therapy: Especially for pragmatic language delays.
- Executive Functioning Support: Tools like visual schedules, checklists, or organizational aids.
- Accommodations: Extra time on tests, sensory breaks, reduced homework load.
Example Goal: “By the end of the semester, the student will initiate a conversation with a peer in a structured setting at least once per day in 4 out of 5 opportunities.”
Level 2 Autism (Moderate Support Needs)
Children with Level 2 autism often have more significant delays in verbal and nonverbal communication and require more structured and intensive supports.
IEP Considerations for Level 2:
- Individualized Communication Strategies: Use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools if needed.
- Behavioral Interventions: Implementation of a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP).
- Structured Learning Environment: Visual supports, task breakdowns, predictable routines.
- Therapeutic Services: Integration of occupational therapy, speech-language services, and social work support.
Example Goal: “The student will use their AAC device to request basic needs with 80% accuracy during school hours over a four-week period.”
Level 3 Autism (High Support Needs)
Children at Level 3 require substantial and continuous support across all environments. They may have limited or no verbal communication, intense sensory sensitivities, and repetitive behaviors that interfere with learning and social participation.
IEP Considerations for Level 3:
- Comprehensive BIPs: Addressing aggressive or self-injurious behavior with safety plans.
- 1:1 Aide Support: Ensuring direct, consistent supervision and assistance.
- Life Skills Curriculum: Emphasis on daily living, self-help, and functional communication.
- Multi-Disciplinary Team Involvement: Frequent collaboration among special educators, therapists, psychologists, and parents.
Example Goal: “Given hand-over-hand support, the student will complete a self-care routine (e.g., washing hands) independently with 70% accuracy in 3 out of 5 trials.”
Why Customization Matters
According to a study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders (Kurth C Mastergeorge, 2010), students with ASD benefit most when their educational plans are closely matched to their learning profiles and adaptive behaviors. IEPs that take into account the child’s level of autism ensure not just compliance with educational law, but also promote meaningful progress.
IEPs must be living documents—flexible, regularly updated, and informed by data. Families should feel empowered to collaborate, ask questions, and advocate for the services that truly reflect their child’s needs.
How Momentum Behavioral Care Supports IEP Success
At Momentum Behavioral Care, we:
- Conduct developmental assessments to inform IEP creation.
- Provide school collaboration and advocacy support for parents
- Help implement ABA therapy goals that align with IEP objectives
- Offer in-school observations and expert reports when needed.
We believe that every child deserves a support plan as unique as they are. Learn how we can partner with your family at: momentumbehaviorcare.com
