However, while there are many common treatments, in general, most treatment really boils down to education and teaching in the special education environment. Including an autistic child in the classroom can be challenging. Studies show that inclusion rates for autistic children in the general education classroom are quite low ("fewer than one-third of autistic children spend their time in the general education classroom") (Turnbull et al. 292). Therefore, it seems the most effective learning environment may be the special education classroom. Including these children in the classroom and helping them develop relationships and assimilate with their peers is not impossible. Some effective ways of including autistic children in the classroom include engaging the other children to help teach and tutor the children when it is feasible. Teachers who find the autistic child has a short attention span and learns slowly may find music and "visual images" are more effective teaching tools. It is also vital to make the other children understand the autistic child's difficulties so they will encourage and understand he/she in the classroom. It is also wise to create predictable activities for the autistic student, and discover some of their "preferred" activities to use when they become difficult or unruly (Turnbull et al. 293). The ASA Web site also notes, "individuals with autism respond well to highly-structured, specialized education programs, designed to meet the individual's needs. Based on the major characteristics associated with autism, there are areas that are important to look at when creating a plan: social skill development, communication, behavior, and...

In addition, many professionals encourage "shadowing in the classroom," which involves the aid of a teacher's aid or attendant who engages in one-on-one activities with the child. Another expert notes, "Shadowing can be tremendously important in helping a child with autistic spectrum disorders join the mainstream. The shadow is essentially serving as a bridge between what the child knows and can do, and actually using those skills with peers" (Siegel 139). Thus, there are many different ways to include the autistic child in both the special education and general education classrooms, and teachers should be aware of the different ways they can encourage and interact with the autistic child.
In conclusion, since autism is such a common childhood disease, educators must be aware of the symptoms, the treatment, and how to include the autistic child in the classroom. Autistic children have special needs, and they can disrupt the classroom if they are not managed effectively. Studying autism and its treatment can help the special education professional help autistic children to learn more effectively and eventually lead more productive and full lives.