Researchers find that IQ scores and academic achievement in autistic children do not always agree

Studies from the University of Washington reveal that the IQ scores of 90 percent of children diagnosed with high-functioning autism show conflicts with their performance on reading, spelling and math tests.

Researchers credit improved autism diagnosis and early behavioral interventions with more children being ranked in the high-functioning range, with average to above average IQs. Nearly 70 percent of those in the study were considered high-functioning, though they have significant social communication challenges.

Officials found that 18 out of the 30 children tested higher than was predicted on at least one of the academic tests. However, across all three exams, 18 of the 30 students scored lower than their IQs would suggest, which could imply a learning disability.

Furthermore, the study found a link between social skills and academic ability in school.

Boarding schools can help children with autism spectrum disorders by offering individualized education designed to promote social and academic success.