Typical peers as models
There is strong evidence for the effectiveness of peer mediated interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders, as well as other positive not directly targeted effects of peer mediated interventions. Some parents and professionals in kindergartens and schools has raised their concern for the typical peers involved in such interventions. But now Locke, Fuller and Kasari has published a study exploring this.
Based on their study 60 children they conclude that typical peers can be socially connected to children with ASD, through intervention and outside or after intervention, as well as other classmates, and maintain a strong and positive role within the classroom.