I think it really depends in the situation. I would look closely at how closely the classroom settings match my child's level of function. I would not put a high functioning verbal child in a class that is predominantly lower functioning non-verbal children because there is no opportunity for social experiences with peers. On the other hand, if your child needs a lot if support, mainstream classrooms can be beyond frustrating for everyone involved.

If you choose to keep your child in a mainstream classrooms, be careful, ensure that the teachers are well aware of their IEP and behavioral tendencies. There was a quite a few years that the teachers had no idea what my sons' goals were until after the first term. Communication is a MAJOR key for this.

Once your child has been diagnosed by a doctor then it's best to be sure your son has the proper care at all times. Many people have mention over & over how public schools are not helping their child; my including. Most public schools try their best but they are not trained or equipped to handle special needs children. For example when my child acts up or is having a bad week the staff will say it's time to change the IEP because your son needs are not being met; I cannot tell you what a hassle it is to go to meetings 2/3 times a month because my son is not conforming to his IEP or they cannot make adjustments without an IEP; it's just too much to deal with.
I have tried to get my son into a school that will help him but it's costly so the public school won't have him transfer there so I have the option to use an attorney to prove my son would be better there but the schools have more attorney's who will just say the school my son is at is following the IEP. Some parents I know have won but don't know how that was but for now I am just making my school work with my son & getting him the help he needs.
First you need a strong advocate who understands IEP & other programs to help your child. That advocate will go with you to your IEP meetings to make sure the staff follows your recommendations and your child's doctor's recommendations. Also you should have a Case Manager who can assist as well. Never go to IEP meetings alone; never. Keep excellent notes & all records of your child's actions and paperwork. At anytime you feel your child's school staff is not following the IEP you have the right to call a meeting so use that power to your advantage to keep your child's staff on their toes.
If you can afford it or your child's public school can get your child to a school that can help with his/her needs. It would be best if it was up to high school graduation with a living life classroom. That is a class that will help your child with necessitates like how to be safe in a kitchen etc. My son really liked that class when he was at a school with that class.
I know it can be overwhelming but just do what is best for your child and surround yourself with good people who can help you with your child and get you help also.

Mainstreaming has its place, however I agree with omaliku. It all depends on your child's unique situation. I have seen it where a large group of autistic children get together and they do better with other children like them instead of in a mainstream class where other children are clearly different from them. I do understand educators need to do this, but I think it should be a combination of both.

@A MyAutismTeam Member Sounds great, the early intervention that my daughter was in had developmentally disabled mixed w/children of U of O students, for the purpose of having regular level kids to watch and interact with...it was so wonderful, and I know that if you have a lot of attention given to your son, it is excellent...whether he has a mix or not. Patience is key, and sometimes in the public school system that is lacking, so sounds like you have a great plan in place...my very best for you and yours...Lauri

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