Understanding Autism for Parents and Carers

A three-hour virtual course which will explore the autism spectrum and the key areas of difference autistic individuals may experience. We will identify evidence-based strategies to support your child and signpost you to resources and information to support you and your family. The session will also provide parents an opportunity to meet one another (virtually) and share experiences as we discuss common scenarios parents/carers may experience and explore possible support strategies.

The course is grounded upon the Ambitious about Autism ‘Right from the Start’ toolkit Parent toolkit | Ambitious about Autism, a resource designed to help parents and carers of autistic children, to navigate their ‘autism journey’. The toolkit contains accessible information, signposting, checklists and resources for parents/carers to utilise after the course.

This session will be delivered by an experienced trainer from the Training and Consultancy team at Ambitious about Autism, a national charity standing with autistic children and young people. We believe every autistic child and young person has the right to be themselves and realise their ambitions. We started as one school and have become a movement for change. We champion rights, campaign for change and create opportunities.

Course content

• Discuss the autism spectrum, identify how autism presents differently in individuals, the unique presentation of autism, and how autistic individuals may experience the world around them.

• Identify how communication skills, social interaction, routines and repetition and sensory processing may impact on an autistic individual.

• Explore the concept of neurodiversity, identifying the uniqueness and skill sets of your child/ren.

• Explore distressing behaviour, identifying that all behaviour serves a purpose and how to proactively and actively support your child to avoid behaviour escalation.

• Identify communication strategies to develop and support your child’s independence.

• Discuss the Special Educational needs (SEN) education system, including an introduction to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP’s); the importance knowing yours and your child’s rights.

• Explore useful resources within the ‘Right from the Start’ Toolkit, which parents/carers can utilise post course.

Ps: This event in non-refundable, unless cancelled by Ambitious.