Find the schooling option that best fits your child’s needs.

Home School

Home schooling is one of the options to provide a flexible and individualized learning environment for your Autistic child. Some benefits of home schooling include:

  • a safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for your child

  • a controlled environment with minimal sensory overload compared to a traditional school setting

  • an education that follows your child’s pace of learning

Every state has their own requirements for home schooling guidelines. Be sure to check the guidelines in your state prior to committing and starting home schooling with your child. Click here to visit the Guidelines for the state of Georgia (must submit a “Declaration of Intent” form).

Private School

Private schooling is another option to ensure that your Autistic child is in a safe and inclusive learning environment.

However, it is of best practice to ensure that the mission and values of the private school align with neurodiversity affirming practices, presumes competence for your child, and offers supports and accommodations for your child to meet their needs.

Some benefits of private schooling include:

  • smaller class sizes & increased one-on-one attention as needed

  • specialized programs that support your child (e.g., yoga, fitness, swimming, hiking, art, and more)

  • a supportive community that understands your child and your family (build a strong support network)

Private schools are generally more expensive. Although there are funding options such as grants and scholarships, most of the expenses are out-of-pocket. Click here to learn more about financial resources available for private schooling.

An amazing example of a private school that is neurodiversity affirming in the state of Georgia is The Hirsch Academy located in Decatur. They have recently started a new educational program, known as Affirm Ed, to teach other educators how to start and or implement an inclusive framework like theirs. Click here to visit their website and learn more.

Public School

Public schooling is another option to provide your Autistic child with a safe learning environment.

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), all public schools are legally obligated to provide children with disabilities, including Autistic children, a free and appropriate education with supports and accommodations. Based on the child’s needs, these may include specialized instruction and education, early intervention services, therapies, and more. Click here to visit the website and learn more.

In addition, education must be provided in the least restrictive environment, meaning that children with disabilities, including Autistic children, must be included in general education settings with supports and accommodations as needed.

All schools are required to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for all children with disabilities, including Autistic children, outlining their supports and accommodations, goals, and progress.

Although public schools are free and affordable, there is less one-on-one support for your child if he/she needs it. Thus, it is imperative that you ADVOCATE for your child and his or her needs! If needed, your child may qualify for physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT), and or speech therapy (ST) services in the school system.