Autism schools in Canada
Find the best private schools for autism
Do you have a child with autism or what’s sometimes called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? If so, there are plenty of school options for you. Read more
Do you have a child with autism or what’s sometimes called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? If so, there are plenty of school options for you. Read more
These are dedicated special needs schools which support autism. They provide full-time support for all students in the school, through accommodations, modifications, and remediations.
Langley, British Columbia — Whytecliff is a safe, empathetic & supportive place for teens with a diverse range of learning needs / personal challenges. Our positive community & high-growth environment pulls each child up to be their very best! View School Profile.
Grades:
8 to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Progressive
Tuition:
$8,900 to $19,500
Living:
Day/Homestay
Enrollment:
47
Avg. Class:
3 to 6
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We are a therapeutic boarding school for Gr. 1-12 students requiring individualized academic, clinical, and behaviour-management solutions in small class sizes and professional home stay or boarding environments
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Robert Land Academy, established in 1978, is a private military-inspired boarding school (Gr 5-12) helping boys to experience validation, realize their potential and gain admission to post-secondary programs.
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Kenneth Gordon Maplewood School is a centre of excellence in developmentally informed instruction that empowers children with learning disabilities in a passionate, progressive and inspiring learning environment.
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Brighton is the leading private school in Toronto for students with academic and/or social challenges. We offer curriculum-based and remedial Elementary programs; and credit, pre-credit and non-credit Secondary streams.
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Students thrive in an inclusive, structured learning environment that provides academic accommodations for all learners. We help students become autonomous, resilient lifelong learners!
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Collège Bourget is a day & boarding school situated between Montreal & Ottawa. The school offers Quebec's french program from Grade 7 till Grade 11 and english program from Grade 10 till Grade 12.
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ABA based curriculum and individualized approach targets not only academic success but also emotional, social, vocational and life skills that are the core skills of life-long success of each student.
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A special needs education private school in Mississauga offering programs using the Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-Based (DIR®) Model. Theme-based DIR® March/Summer Camps are also available.
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The YMCA Academy is an alternative school for students in grades 6 to 12 with learning disabilities and learning style differences, offering individualized Special Education support.
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Through our dynamic individual education plans, mentorship, and therapeutic counselling we ensure all students feel comfortable, respected and cared for, so they stay actively engaged in their educational journey.
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OAK BRIDGE ACADEMY is an alternative, not-for-profit school. Our highest priority is to provide financially accessible, highly specialized education to every child with learning exceptionalities.
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Venture Academy is a therapeutic treatment and education program for students who may be struggling with mood disorders & anxiety disorders, behavioural challenges, substance misuses, ADHD, ADD and ODD
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Flexible, techy environment. Freedom of choice. ALL ABILITIES welcome and no ideals taught outside the scope of academia. We are a COMMUNITY of incredible future leaders with innate creative genius!
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Heritage Academy provides a multisensory learning environment and supports students with Dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, and Anxiety in Grades 1 -12.
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Venture Academy is a therapeutic treatment and education program for students who may be struggling with ADHD, learning challenges, underachieving, behavioural issues, and a variety of clinical diagnoses.
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Providence Academy is the only Private French Catholic School offering a trilingual program of study in Ontario with classes from nursery to grade eight. Tuition: $8,800-10,300. Extracurricular activities: $600-$650.
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Magnificent Minds Inc. caters to students whose needs are not being met in traditional school environments, pursuing personal best through a balanced approach to education.
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Team School offers programs from grades 1 to 12 in Mississauga. Its average class size is 8 to 12 students.
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The Dunblaine School empowers students with learning disabilities to reach their full potential. It offers programs for students from grade one to eight, with an average class size of 5-7 students.
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Edelweiss Private Academy offers elementary education to students with ASD and other exceptionalities, maintaining small teacher to student ratios. We promote strong academic, physical and social-emotional development.
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These are regular schools supporting autism. Environments offered may include dedicated, integrated, and withdrawal special needs classes, as well as regular classes with resource support and in-class adaptations.
Toronto, Ontario — The Clover School's innovative curriculum combines Montessori essentials with heart-centred learning practices designed to nurture the mind, heart, health, and soul of each child. View School Profile.
Grades:
NS to 8 (Coed)
Type:
Montessori
Tuition:
$15,100 to $24,200
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
400
Avg. Class:
10 to 30
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Toronto, Ontario — Toronto Prep School starts later in order to maximize teen learning. The optimal time for teenagers to learn is late in the morning through to late afternoon. Our classes start at 10:00 am. View School Profile.
Grades:
7 to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Traditional
Tuition:
$29,450
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
430
Avg. Class:
14 to 16
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Toronto, Ontario — Since 1982, Metro Prep has provided an accepting environment where students embrace their individuality and thrive academically. We are a non-uniform school that is now located at a brand new campus at 401 and Leslie. View School Profile.
Grades:
7 to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Traditional
Tuition:
$25,560 to $33,250
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
200
Avg. Class:
12 to 18
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Mississauga, Ontario — Lynn-Rose's philosophy is to create an environment that is challenging and rewarding; focusing on social, intellectual and emotional aspects of the students development through the International Baccalaureate program. View School Profile.
Grades:
PS to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Progressive, International Baccalaureate
Tuition:
$17,700 to $22,000
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
600
Avg. Class:
16 to 18
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Toronto, Ontario — Bond Academy is a private, co-educational, non-denominational independent school with students from Montessori Casa to Grade 12. Our educational process is Beyond the Books! Education as it should be. View School Profile.
Grades:
PS to 12 (Coed)
Type:
Liberal Arts
Tuition:
$7,000 to $16,000
Living:
Day
Enrollment:
350
Avg. Class:
10 to 15
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Blyth Academy Lawrence Park is one of nine Blyth Academy campuses in Ontario. Our campus located in midtown Toronto provides the warmth and community of a neighbourhood school.
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We identify the experiences that facilitate education that empowers the individual and fosters a community of collaborative contributors through interdisciplinary, integrated integrated projects.
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Crestwood Preparatory College offers a university preparatory program for students in grades 7 to 12. Crestwood always strive to Inspire Excellence and to Nurture the Individual.
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Northstar Montessori offers an accredited Montessori curriculum from Toddler age to Grade 8. Our goal is to develop strong character and contributing citizens who understand that their involvement makes a difference.
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Learning is not one to many. It's many to one. From the teachers to the principal to the coaches and beyond, learning at WillowWood is a team approach.
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Junior Academy offers programs for students from Toddler to Grade Eight, in midtown Toronto. The average class size is 10 to 14 students and it caters to many types of students with different learning profiles.
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Our mission is personalized student academic success in a friendly and caring school community, in which all students are emotionally supported and socially welcome.
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We are different! As a leading IB World School and university preparatory school with a focus on student life, SJA students are inspired to confidently make their mark in the world.
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Blyth Academy The Glebe focuses on personalized education, small class sizes, and strong student support for Grades 7-12. Big experience in a small school! Part of community of nine Blyth Academy campuses in Ontario.
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Located in the heart of Toronto, McDonald International Academy offers programs for grades 9 to 12 . Our average class size is 10 to 20 students.
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Founded in 1990, Yip's Montessori Program cater to children from 1.5 to 6 years old. Yip's campuses are located in Markham and Unionville.
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Acadecap International School (Académie de la Capitale), an IB World School, offers bilingual and/or English programmes from JK to Grade 12. Students thrive in a growth mindset environment and a culture of excellence.
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Students receive an excellent education which prepares them well for university, college and a wide variety of workplaces.
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Enquiring Minds Montessori is a one-of-a-kind Montessori Art School. We have created a unique learning experience that fosters academic and artistic excellence in a nurturing environment while challenging young minds.
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Cornerstone students love to shape the future. They INSPIRE learning, DISCOVER their potential, EMPOWER themselves to be innovative citizens. Our boundless learning strategies open doors for successful learning.
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Faith is at the center of all we do at MCI- from the court, to the stage, to the classroom. We work to provide a safe space for students to ask questions, dig deeper, grow into who God is calling them to be.
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The Study, founded in 1915, is one of Canada's premier all-girls' schools. Dedicated teachers offer a warm and stimulating bilingual mother-tongue environment from Kindergarten to Grade 11. The World Needs Great Women.
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Building on internationally acclaimed preschool reading success, SLI has grown into a hub for ground-breaking student achievement in literary, STEM, and artistic achievement across Pre-K - Gr 6 (offered on site/ online)
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Each student is unique. Why be just a number when you can be valued for who you are? We enfold, engage and empower every student in a safe, friendly, and supportive learning community. It's where you belong!
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The Maples is an established private IB World School in Orangeville, Ontario providing exemplary education for students (Pre-School to Grade 8). Daily French instruction in PS and Kindergarten with an academic focus.
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Humberside Montessori School is internationally recognized and accredited by Association Montessori Internationale (AMI). Our AMI certified teachers provide an authentic Montessori experience for our students.
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For more than 40 years, Kanata Montessori has been graduating students with self-confidence, critical thinking skills, respect, high academic achievement, and an international perspective.
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At SCELS we believe giving children an early education will build a solid foundation to prepare them for their next school setting.
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-Passionate Learning: learning should be joyful and for life, not just for tests. -Skills for a Modern World: building the confidence to be leaders and Changemakers. -Holistic Wellbeing: creating conditions to thrive.
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Don Valley Academy is a private high school whose primary aim is to prepare our students for post-secondary studies. We are dedicated to providing educational programs that meet the individual needs of each student.
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Heuristic & autodidactic, inspired by Sudbury & democratic models. Students are self-directed, and holistically empowered. Voluntary attendance, year-round calendar, agency, & consent inspire free learning. Also Forest
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At G.B.MS, D.E.P.S and Durham Academy Secondary school focus is on each individual student and helping them meet their unique potential and goals. We believe in excellent customer service and families have a voice. Throughout the year we enhance our programs through program enhancement and enrichment.
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Grade 9-12 students are encouraged to be confident servant-leaders. Student diversity provides a global perspective of life and faith. Great Lakes' graduates are accepted by colleges and universities of their choice.
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Blyth Academy Downsview Park offers outstanding education coupled with unique opportunities for student-athletes to engage in sports-specific and fitness training throughout their regular school day.
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UC offers year-ahead advanced programs from pre-school to Grade 9. We blend high standards for academic success with the social and emotional development of the individual child.
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King’s Christian Collegiate is an independent Christian high school providing superb instruction in a safe, stimulating academic environment. Caring staff set the tone for a positive, up-beat culture.
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Bishop Hamilton Montessori School, a not-for-profit independent school in Ottawa, provides an authentic Christian Montessori approach for children 3 months to 14 years.
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After 20 years of teaching courses online, VHS is unrivaled in experience, credibility, and expertise. Our student-centred model provides a world-class educational experience for thousands of Ontario students each year.
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Incorporating academic excellence, service and peace-making, Rockway is a diverse learning community of students in Grades 7 to 12 including a dynamic international student exchange program.
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Meadow Green Academy provides a strong Christian education in a nurturing environment. Strong academics combined with sports, enriched music, visual arts, and dramatic arts programs provide a well-rounded experience
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At Oxford Learning Academy, our teachers will use the proven scientific approach of Cognitive Development to teach our students new ways of thinking and understanding what they are learning and how they are learning.
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Our curriculum are designed to build essential skills and concepts that help with the cognitive, social, creative, emotional, and physical development of your child with the aim to be a successful learner for life!
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LCH is the only full-service independent high school in London. Through a Christian worldview, we offer the OSSD, OFSAA sports, extracurriculars, travel opportunities, and authentic learning experiences.
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Aurora Montessori offers an enriched Montessori program for students, Toddler to Grade 8, with an option of an OSSD credit in Grade 9 Math. A unique Mindfulness and Technology program develops key 21st-century skills!
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Glen Briar Academy provides hands on programs and student centered teaching strategies that shape life long learners.
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Sycamore School offers grades 8-12 personalized education in an alternative program that addresses the needs of secondary school students who may thrive in a small community of learners while working toward graduation.
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Ontario Virtual School is an Ontario Ministry-inspected credit-granting institution offering high school courses for Grades 9-12 in an interactive online format. Students can start anytime with 24/7 access.
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Our objective is to guide children with respect and understanding, developing in them a love of learning. Our aim is to create a nurturing environment full of intellectual, social and moral learning and development.
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Since 1861, The Sacred Heart School of Montreal, the city’s only all-girls English Catholic high school, has been preparing girls to change the world. We offer grades 7 to 12, day school and boarding.
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The main objective of FMA is to provide your child with a planned and stimulating environment in order for them to be able to reach their own individual and highest learning potential while honouring the whole child.
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Kingsley's small classes and personal approach help students reach their unique potential. Each child is seen, heard, and respected. French, music, and phys-ed round out a program which includes plenty of time outdoors.
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We are proud to offer families Private elementary school education where God and His Word are central to the curriculum. Our faculty of qualified teachers is committed to loving and teaching each child.
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At Blyth Academy Mississauga, we know each of our students and through our individualized approach, we can meet their needs and make school a great place to be. We're one of eight Blyth Academy campuses in Ontario.
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RJC is a Grades 10-12 boarding school accredited by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education. RJC is student and community-focused all while offering excellent academics and exceptional athletic and fine arts programs.
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Kawartha Montessori School is the only CCMA-accredited school in the region. We offer an education that inspires academic excellence and develops socially responsible, independent, and confident individuals.
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University of Toronto Schools (UTS) offers a transformative education to high-achieving students in Grades 7 to 12 from all backgrounds. UTS graduates take initiative and innovate as socially responsible global citizens.
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HDCH, founded in 1956, is imaginative, innovative & interwoven with our essential Biblical identity. Our programs are designed to challenge a wide range of learners. We welcome local and international students!
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Canada’s only independent, Catholic school for boys in Grades 7-12, taught in the Basilian tradition of forming the mind, body, and soul. Since 1852, we have educated students in goodness, discipline, and knowledge.
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Scholars' Hall is a family-focused school that uses traditional teaching methods combined with a fully integrated Leadership program to raise strong, capable, independent, and intelligent young adults.
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The Mabin School offers programs from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6 in Toronto. Its average class size is 20 students.
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There are autism schools (and even preschools) all across Canada. This includes schools in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Mississauga, Edmonton, and Calgary.
Many private schools specialize in autism. ASD schools offer a wide range of programs to support children with autism and related disorders, such as Asperger's syndrome (which is considered a high-functioning form of autism). Some also provide support for children with other developmental, learning, physical, or behavioural disorders.
Private autism schools have specialized education programs. They offer individualized instruction and a tailored approach to meet the needs of autistic children.
Autism schools provide special education assistance, such as curricular and environmental accommodations and modifications. They may also offer additional services, such as behavioural therapy, training in social skills, academic counselling, and psychotherapy. This can help your autistic child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Private schools provide support for children with autism through a wide range of placements. The main options are dedicated schools, dedicated classes, integrated classes, withdrawal classes, regular classes with direct support, and regular classes with indirect support.
In choosing the right private school for your autistic child, you’ll need to do some research. Take a close look at many ASD schools, visit each one, and ask many questions.
To gauge a school’s fit, focus on its unique features. Most importantly, take a close look at the school’s autism program, to make sure it’s right for your child. To begin, we suggest looking at five main features of the program.
What is the main focus of the program? Is it behavioural management, language development, socialization, sensory/motor integration, literacy-based learning, activities of daily living, or something else? All are crucial, of course. But you should choose an autism program that addresses your child’s main areas of need, including their strengths and weaknesses.
Will the school support and openly communicate with you? What is expected of you? A positive relationship between you and school officials is a must for success.
What is the experience, training, and credentials of teachers and staff? Ideally, they should have a minimum of four years experience working with autistic kids. The last thing you need is someone “cutting their teeth” on your child.
What teaching methods and approaches are used in the autism program? What happens if an approach doesn't work? Will you be informed? Will changes be made? Never accept the explanation that your child is the reason for the failure.
What evaluation tools are used to assess whether or not the program is working and that your child is succeeding? Will the findings be shared with you? Will modifications be made, if needed, to better meet the needs of your child?
Child-specific advice on school choice
For child-specific insights on choosing a school, read our guide. We explore how school choices crucially depend on kids' unique traits, such as their mental and academic focus, social tendencies, activity level, academic interests (such as art and STEM), and other attributes (such as giftedness, special needs (such as autism), learning disabilities, and social issues).
To customize over 350 school profiles with insights unique to your child's traits, create a child profile through your user account.
Meeting the needs of an autistic child is no small task. There are countless approaches autism schools use to promote learning and development.
Some of these approaches are experimental. Others may be harmful.
You want to find the ones that are “tried and true.”
Here are some questions to consider when looking at the approach of a private autism school:
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), refers to a range of conditions. These conditions involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger’s syndrome).
There are several controversies surrounding the diagnoses and causes of autism. It’s now believed that there’s no single cause of autism. Research seems to suggest that autism is normally the result of both genetic and environmental influences.
According to Autism Speaks Canada, here are some other facts about autism:
To learn more, visit Autism Canada, Health Canada, and the Mayo Clinic website.
Any private school you consider should understand the main traits, symptoms, and causes of autism. Most importantly, though, they should have a strong autism program, one that meets your child’s most crucial needs and helps them excel.
On this page, we list schools for children with autism in Canada. This includes schools exclusively devoted to supporting autistic kids, as well as those that support kids with other types of special needs or conditions as well. Find an autism school near you.
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Special needs schools
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Find the top independent schools in Sudbury here (February 22, 2023)
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Find the top independent schools in Fredericton here (February 22, 2023)
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The main features and benefits of micro schools (February 13, 2023)
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Find a list of private schools in Manitoba here (December 16, 2022)
