International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE)
Vol 15, No 3: June 2026

Evaluating socioemotional skill interventions for preschool children with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review

Richard Rickie Akat (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia)
Suziyani Mohamed (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia)
Nurul Khairani Ismail (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study aims to systematically review and synthesize recent empirical evidence on socioemotional skill interventions for preschool children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from an educational evaluation perspective. Guided by the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) framework, a systematic search of Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) identified 15 peer-reviewed studies published between 2019 and 2025. The included studies were thematically analyzed and appraised using the mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT). The findings revealed three dominant intervention themes: i) relationship-based and developmental interventions; ii) structured and skill-focused interventions; and iii) creative, expressive, and technology-supported approaches, demonstrating overall positive effects on socioemotional outcomes. However, the strength of evidence remains moderate due to methodological heterogeneity, small sample sizes, and limited longitudinal designs. These findings highlight the importance of developmentally appropriate and flexible intervention designs in inclusive early childhood education. The review offers practical implications for educators, curriculum developers, and policymakers. Specifically, it emphasizes the need for evidence-based socioemotional programs to strengthen inclusive preschool practices for children with ASD.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJERE

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

The International Journal of Evaluation and Research in Education (IJERE) is an interdisciplinary publication of original research and writing on education which publishes papers to international audiences of educational researchers. The IJERE aims to provide a forum for scholarly understanding of ...