10 acronyms of autism

Whether you are a parent whose child is newly diagnosed or could use a refresher on important terms, here are the most common acronyms used in the world of special education and autism. 

ASD - Autism Spectrum Disorder - Used to define the autism diagnosis, acknowledging a variable of severity, from mild to profound.

ABA - Applied Behavior Analysis - An intensive, structured teaching program.

IFSP - Individualized Family Service Plan (used in the Birth to three program) - The written program of early intervention services.  The document is family driven.

IDEA - Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act - Used in combination with Connecticut's (or your state's) special education law, this is the federal special education law that is used to regulate and entitle individuals with a disability to a free and appropriate education.

PPT - Planning and Placement Team - Participants (teachers, therapists, school administration and parents) who will decide and create the IEP based on the special education needs of the child.

IEP - Individualized Education Program - A written educational program adapted specifically for a child with a disability

LRE - Least Restrictive Environment - A child with a disability is entitled to be educated in a general classroom setting, to the extent that is possible

FAPE - Free Appropriate Public Education - Special education and related services that are provided, based on the requirements of the state and federal law.  These services are provided at public expense.

ESY - Extended School Year - Special education and related services beyond the normal school year ( summer).  There is no cost to the parent for these accommodations.

LOVE -  Living Optimistically through Vision and Empathy (made this one up, but LOVE is a parents driving force and is always present)

Other terms used: OT - Occupational Therapy. PT - Physical Therapy, BSE - Bureau of Special Education, CSDE - Connecticut State Department of Education

State resource guides/booklets provide critical information to help a parent understand the laws and obtain the services necessary to help your child.  To obtain these resources in Connecticut  and exercise your right to know, see the following sites:

Professional Development Guide:  Early Childhood Education Initiative (professional development opportunities): State Education Resource Center (SERC)

A Parents Guide to Special Education in Connecticut: Connecticut State Department of Education/Bureau of Special Education  ***If nothing else, make sure you have this.  It is a quick reference guide and targets the most important areas.

Guidelines for Identification and Education of Children and Youth with Autism : Connecticut State Department of Education/Division of Teaching and Learning Programs and Services/Bureau of Special Education