Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a complex Autism Spectrum Condition that is characterised by an anxiety driven need to be in control and avoid every day demands. Children and young people with PDA require careful handling and a different approach to that usually adopted with individuals with Classic Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome.

This training is delivered by Laura Kerbey. Laura is the founder of Positive Autism Support and Training and a Surrey Autism Champion and has over 15 years’ experience teaching children and teenagers with Autism Spectrum Conditions and associated conditions. Laura continues to work with schools, colleges and families who have children with Autistic Spectrum Conditions including PDA.

At the end of the day delegates will be offered the opportuity to stay for an additional tutorial where we will discuss how to receive accrediation for this course and you will receive all additional materials. Please note that this will cost an additional £75 but delegates will receive an OCN London Certificate which will put them on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) for England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The Learning Outcomes for this course are as follows:

• Understand the meaning of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)
• Understand the differences and similarities between PDA and other conditions
• Understand the impact PDA has on a child, teenager or young adult and how they might be supported
• Understand the key principles of positive behaviour management when working with children, teenagers and young adults with PDA
• Understand the effects that PDA has on learning and how to reduce the impact of this

Attendees will leave the course with a better understanding of PDA and a “toolkit” of strategies to use when working with a child with this condition.

The course is interactive and you will have the opportunity to discuss your ideas and experiences with others.

"Thank you Laura for an excellent training morning which covered how to support children with autism, pathological demand avoidance and challenging behaviour. I attended with three other colleagues and we all commented that it was one of the best training sessions we have attended. The training was delivered in an engaging way and was incredibly informative. We all left with increased understanding of how to support these children, a greater awareness of what may be triggering such behaviours and we also knew where to seek further support, if needed. You also created an atmosphere where parents/carers and professionals felt able to share their own experiences which was invaluable. Thank you again." Hannah Wing - SENCO and Assistant Head for Inclusion - St Nicolas and St Mary CE Primary School

HELPING TO PUT PROBLEMS WITH AUTISM IN THE PAST