Autism is a complex disorder that is present at birth and usually apparent from early childhood, and is usually developing within the first 30months of life. (Lim & Quah, 2004) Autism spectrum disorder refers to a group of childhood disorders which have identifiable characteristics and behaviors that can be exhibited in children to extremely varying degrees. (Allen & Cowdery, 2009)
Firstly, children with autism have difficulty communicating with others and engaging in social interactions, whether verbally or non-verbally. They are unable to have eye-contact with peers, lack of peer relationships, lack of reciprocity and failure to share interest or joy with others. (Lim & Quah, 2004) As a result of this, they may also be delayed in their socio-emotional development and have difficulty in requesting for attention or help.
If we include the child in the mainstream classroom, the child might not get his needs satisfied such as when he needs to go to the toilet and is unable to speak. This might result in an accident in class and bully would begin.
Another characteristic of children with autism would be adhering to specific, nonfunctional routines or rituals and display motor movements such as rocking or spinning, and manipulating toys inappropriately. Adhering to a specific routine or ritual in a mainstream school might be tough as there are times where there will be excursions or special celebrations that require the schedule of the day to be change. At such a time, the child with autism is unable to accept the change and might start flapping or rocking or even throw a tantrum.