The paper presents an overview of the factors involved in providing successful mainstreaming experiences to severely language disordered (SLD) children. Among aspects considered are individualization, behavior management procedures, independent problem solving and decision making, group test taking skills and experiences, social emotional growth, independent living skills, motivation, frustration tolerance, study skills, large group abilities, oral language skills, mathematics abilities, and composition skills. Three areas are emphasized for instruction with SLD children: adaptation of material, directions, and independence. Guidelines are given for allowing student options in materials, sidestepping the students' difficulties with oral directions, and encouraging student independence. (CL)