Johannesburg: As the world marks World Autism Awareness Day on 2 April, and Autism Awareness Month throughout April, urgent conversations are emerging around how best to support children on the autism spectrum. With current estimates now at 1 in 33 children diagnosed with autism, families, educators, and healthcare providers are being challenged to rethink traditional approaches.
Globally, even pioneers involved in shaping diagnostic frameworks within American Psychiatric Association criteria have raised concerns that the autism diagnosis has broadened to the point where it risks losing clarity and usefulness. This underscores the need to focus less on labels—and more on meaningful, individualised intervention.
The “Autism School” Misconception
In South Africa, many parents instinctively seek out an “autism school” following a diagnosis. This is often driven by a desire for social acceptance and the reassurance that their child is placed in a structured school environment. However, this well-intentioned decision may not always meet the child’s developmental needs.
Children on the spectrum frequently lack prerequisite skills for learning, such as:
- Compliance and the ability to follow instructions
- Functional language and communication
- Social engagement and interaction
- Imitation and learning readiness
Without these foundational skills, a traditional or even specialised school environment may not set the child up for success.
Why Environment Matters
Placing a child in a setting where peers also struggle with communication and behaviour can limit opportunities for modelling appropriate language and social interaction. Children learn significantly through imitation, and without strong role models, progress can stall. Instead, what many children require initially is an intensive, one-on-one intervention programme, such as Applied Behaviour Analysis, delivered by a team of trained professionals. This approach focuses on closing developmental gaps and equipping children with the tools they need to learn effectively.
A New Pathway: Prepare, Then Mainstream
Once foundational skills are in place, children are far better positioned to transition into mainstream education. At this stage, support can be provided through a facilitator model—where a trained professional accompanies the child into a mainstream classroom.
This allows the child to:
- Model appropriate social behaviour from typically developing peers
- Develop natural language in a rich communication environment
- Integrate meaningfully into society
20 Years of Changing Lives
For over two decades, Star Academy has been at the forefront of autism intervention across the African continent. Through data-driven, individualised programmes, the academy has helped countless children close developmental gaps and successfully transition into mainstream schooling.
At the helm is Ilana Gerschlowitz, internationally recognised speaker, winner of Africa’s Most Influential Women in Business and Government (2016) and author of Saving My Son. Her work has empowered families and professionals alike, giving a voice to children who might otherwise have been left behind.
A Call to Parents
This World Autism Awareness Month, parents are encouraged to look beyond the label of an “autism school” and ask a more important question:
Is my child being given the tools they need to succeed?
With the right intervention, many children with autism can develop the skills necessary to thrive in mainstream environments—unlocking their full potential and future independence.
Ilana Gerschlowitz
Director The Star Academy
Author: Saving my Sons: A Journey with Autism
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