The spectrum of autistic disorders is now known to be far more prevalent than previously thought and diagnosis is being made at earlier ages. There is also a consensus that early intervention and support can have a significant impact on the quality of life for individuals and their families. This presents the problem of how to organise effective education and support in the early years. This paper analyses some of these issues and makes the case for considering a principled eclectic approach, including the best aspects of some specialist approaches, to meet these very individual needs.
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