Xiaoshu, a nine-year-old boy with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), recently made headlines when he voluntarily raised his hand to answer a question in school, marking a significant milestone in his educational journey.

His mother, who documents his school experiences on Douyin, shares the moments reflecting his gradual progress from having meltdowns in class to successfully interacting with peers.

Xiaoshu’s transformation is emblematic of broader advancements in China's approach to autism, driven by increasing social awareness and supportive policies.

According to a 2024 report, approximately 0.7 percent of children aged 6 to 12 in China are diagnosed with autism, suggesting an estimated 2 million autistic children nationwide.

Recognizing the growing needs of these children, the National Health Commission in 2022 issued a trial protocol for autism screening and intervention services for children under six.

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts outlined in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) aimed at enhancing special education.

Xiaoshu, who was diagnosed with moderate autism in 2018, began attending a mainstream elementary school in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, with his mother providing full-time support.

The school implements inclusivity policies, allowing children with special needs to be assessed separately, fostering an educational environment conducive to both academic and social development.

Over the past year and a half, Xiaoshu has shown remarkable progress, gaining the confidence to greet teachers and engage with classmates.

Another aspect of Xiaoshu's story is the shift in public perception towards children with autism.

Initially met with skepticism about their place in mainstream classrooms, there is now a growing acceptance and support for inclusivity.

Xiaoshu's mother finds comfort in the positive changes, stating that this education model benefits both neurodiverse and neurotypical children.

In Jinan, Shandong Province, 17-year-old Lele, who has grown up in a special education environment founded by his parents, reflects a different facet of autism support.

After experiencing little success with traditional interventions, his parents adapted their approach, embracing the unique traits associated with autism rather than solely focusing on rehabilitation.

Over the years, they established an intervention center that has aided nearly 2,000 children, including assisting around 200 in transitioning to mainstream schools.

Lele's journey has gained attention online, highlighting the joys and triumphs of individuals with autism.

As societal attitudes evolve, there remains a recognized need for improved inclusive education.

Experts point out the necessity for tailored educational strategies to support children with autism, advocating for integration in academic and social experiences.

Recent regulations, set to take effect in June 2025, will further mandate the acceptance of special needs children in kindergartens, promoting early inclusive practices.

Researchers emphasize the importance of training and resources for educators to enhance inclusivity.

While progress has been made, significant challenges remain for effective implementation and universal access to special education resources across China.