Many low-income communities in Hawaii have little access to autism resources, and most families detect autism too late
Public schools do not have enough teachers to provide and adequate education for autistic students, and most educators who do not specialize in special education are not well equipped to work with students with disabilities
There are many barriers that make it difficult for students with autism to receive the treatment and guidance they need. Barrier 1: The lack of education surrounding autism and detection of certain disabilities make it difficult for parents and families to know when to seek specialized education. Barrier 2: By the time students are diagnosed with autism, it is too late to start early childhood intervention which makes ABA therapy less effective. Barrier 3: Even if families do detect autism, it is difficult for public school teachers to accommodate properly to their needs.Â