It's Messy but Real: A Pilot Study of the Implementation a Social Engagement Intervention for Children with Autism in Schools

J Res Spec Educ Needs. 2019 Apr;19(2):135-144. doi: 10.1111/1471-3802.12436. Epub 2018 Aug 19.

Abstract

Social impairment represents one of the most challenging core deficits of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and greatly affects children's school experiences; however, few evidence-based social engagement programs have been implemented and sustained in schools. This pilot study examined the implementation and sustainment of a social engagement intervention, Remaking Recess, for four elementary-aged children with ASD and four school personnel in two urban public schools. The improved peer engagement and social network inclusion outcomes suggest that Remaking Recess can be feasibly implemented in under resourced public schools with fidelity and has the potential to improve child outcomes for children with ASD.

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder; implementation fidelity; school-based social engagement intervention.