Local expert shares insight into understanding autism criteria in special education

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Autism affects how children learn and interact in school environments. Judy Cohen from Lakeside Educational Services joined us Wednesday, Feb. 11 to talk about how autism is evaluated and defined as a disability under special education law.

She said that autism is a spectrum disorder affecting social interaction and communication, typically evident before age 3, adding that in Wisconsin, 18,580 students have autism, representing 14.65% of all students with individualized education programs.

Cohen also cited data showing that 1 in 31 children in the U.S. have autism, up from 1 in 36, with boys are nearly four times more likely to be diagnosed than girls.

Schools evaluate autism through parent and teacher questionnaires, classroom observations and standardized assessments. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for student success.

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