COURSES

We offer workshops for organizations, schools, agencies, SEPACs or any interested group.  We will offer workshops in person for a minimum of 12 attendees, and via Zoom for a minimum of 8 attendees. We reserve the right to cancel if the minimum number is not met 48 hours ahead of the event.  You must book your workshop no less than 1 month in advance, but availability fills up quickly, so booking more than 1 month in ahead is strongly recommended.  For each workshop listed below you will find an overview of what is covered and the approximate workshop length, which includes time for questions.
To book a workshop please call 508-379-0371 Ext 30

Autism Basics

Could is Be ASD (Toddlers & Preschool Age Children)  (Approx. 45-90 mins)

Content Includes:

  • The current statistics on ASD
  • Signs of ASD in toddlers & preschool age children
  • The diagnostic criteria
  • Voices of veterans

It can also include the following when requested.

  • What helps…
  • Understanding behavior
An Introduction to Understanding ASD: This workshop will provide a basic introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder. (Approx.90 mins)

Content includes:

  • Current statistics on ASD
  • The Diagnostic Criteria
  • An overview of the central area's of challenge often associated with ASD including: Communication, Sensory, Social, Executive function problems, and behavior issues
  • A few considerations for helpful supports
  • Videos will be shown to illustrate points. Time will be allotted for questions.
Autism and Communication: Presented by a Speech-Language Pathologist, this course addresses topics related to communication.  (Approx. 90 mins)

Content includes:

  • The difference between speech, language, and communication
  • The impact of dysregulation on communication
  • Non-speaking individuals
  • Echolalia, scripting, and perseveration
  • Strategies to support communication
*Understanding Sensory & Behavior Challenges in ASD.  (Approx. 90 mins)

Content includes:

  • The challenges associated with behavioral and sensory issues affecting the lives of persons with ASD
  • The consideration of neurological, communication, sensory and social issues which influence behavior in individuals with ASD
  • Information regarding sensory processing and supports for sensory regulation will be highlighted.
  • Practical strategies will be discussed for supporting individuals

(*We strongly suggest you take the Communication/Social workshop before taking this one.)

 

Executive Functioning: The What, The Why, The How: Executive functioning skills are necessary for daily life.  Many neurodivergent individuals need support and strategies to help with executive functioning skills.  (Approx. 90 mins)

Content includes:

  • What is executive function?
  • Identifying skills that fall under executive function
  • Myth-Busting
  • The Emotional Regulation Connection
  • Strategies to encourage specific executive functioning skills
  • How to support somebody who struggles with executive functioning skills

Resources & Supports

First Steps After Diagnosis  (Approx. 45 – 60 mins)

Content will include:

  • Early Intervention & Special Education
  • Information about DDS and why to apply
  • “Area Family Support Centers”
  • Mass Health
  • Therapies
  • Special Education Rights
  • SEPACS
  • SSI
  • Overview of CAR Services
Services and Supports for ASD  (Approx 60 – 75 mins)

Content Includes

  • The wide variety of free services provided by Community Autism Resources (CAR).
  • The importance of getting applying to Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and the process
  • DDS Services through you area Family Support Center
  • A variety of resources for support and services in Massachusetts will be covered including some ideas for recreational activities.
  • Vital information on safety risks for those with ASD, and safety resources
  • There will be time allotted for questions throughout the presentation.

Strategies for Supporting Individuals

Puberty & Autism: A Supportive Workshop for Families and Caregivers  (Approx. 2 hrs) Customizable for schools, clinics, or parent groups

This workshop is designed to empower parents, caregivers, and professionals supporting autistic children and teens (ages 8 – 18) through the often confusing and overwhelming changes of puberty.

Content includes:

  • Puberty basics: body changes, menstruation, erections, voice changes, hair growth, etc.
  • Emotional development and regulation during adolescence
  • Supporting hygiene skills and creating routines that work
  • Teaching boundaries, consent, and safe relationships
  • Navigating identity, gender, and sexuality with respect and understanding
  • Tools for visual schedules, social stories, and sensory supports
An Overview of Visual Supports: Creation and Implementation  (Approx 90 mins)

Content includes:

  • What are visual supports?
  • Why is it important to use visuals?
  • What are some myths about using visuals?
  • What are some examples of visuals that can help support emotional regulation, independence, and communication?
  • How can I make or request visuals?
Introduction to Assistive Technology – Assistive technology is defined as "any item that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of an individual with a disability.” Taught by a certified Assistive Technology Professional.  (Approx 90 mins)

Content includes:

  • Examples of assistive technology to benefit safety, communication, independence, emotional regulation, and activities of daily living
  • DIY options for assistive technology
  • The SETT Framework for selecting possible AT supports
  • Factors that lead to tech success or abandonment
  • Medical necessity and insurance funding
iPad Basics – This is an introductory course for those wanting to learn more about the iPad and showcase some of the options, features, and capabilities for use with neurodivergent children and adults.  (Approx 90 mins)

Content includes:

  • Purchase considerations
  • Setting up an iPad
  • Downloading apps
  • Accessibility settings
  • Standard apps and how to use
  • Favorite apps
  • Communication devices

Safety

ASD Wandering Prevention & Safety  (Approx. 60 – 75 mins)

Content includes:

  • Wandering Statistics
  • Why do they wander/bolt?
  • Where wandering can happen
  • How to reduce the risk of wandering
  • Home and personal safety items
  • Tools and skills to reduce risk
  • How to be prepared in a wandering emergency

 

ASD for First Responders: What to know…  (Approx. 60 – 90 mins)

Content Includes:

  • We’ll cover Statistics and Safety Risks
  • Communication Challenges
  • Sensory Dysregulation
  • Behavior Challenges
  • Spotting signs someone is autistic
  • Behavior during emergencies and what may help
  • Safety equipment parents may use
  • Sample safety info/personal profiles
  • Autism/First Responder Resources