Detroit, MI Conference

Social Skills Training and Frustration Management, with Jed Baker, Ph.D.
Specific, user-friendly strategies and techniques for providing relevant social skills instruction to children and teens with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) will be shared at this workshop. Enjoyable socialization methods are emphasized so individuals may experience success and desire to build skills. Social deficits affect life at home, school and eventually in the workplace. Conference participants will learn both highly beneficial strategies that can be used across a variety of settings and routines; and practical and effective solutions to assist 'typical' peers, family members and professionals to become more understanding, accepting and engaging of those with social difficulties. Participants will learn: 1) The reasons for social skill deficits and disruptive behaviors in children with social communication problems 2) Strategies to deal effectively with meltdowns and tantrums 3) How to put together an effective behavior plan for repeat problems 4) How to put together a social skills training program in schools or at home 5) Strategies for teaching and generalizing social skills in-group or one on one situations 6) How to create programs for typical peers to accept students with disabilities and model positive behaviors.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Differentiating Instruction in Inclusive Classrooms, with Paula Kluth, Ph.D.
This presentation focuses on planning lessons for all in a diverse inclusive classroom. Participants will learn how to modify curricula and instruction for students with autism and other disabilities. Specifically, participants will explore how to use a wider range of formats (including at least 5 different active learning structures), create more relevant lessons, increase instructional strategies, set up a comfortable classroom, and develop better and more responsive materials. Literacy will be a special focus of this day-long workshop. Participants will learn: 1) How some individuals with autism see and experience schooling 2) The benefits of inclusive schools for students with autism 3) Active learning techniques appropriate for K-12 classrooms 4) Ideas for adapting lessons to meet the needs of diverse learners 5) How to create a "strengths & strategies" profile for a student with autism 6) How to improve literacy instruction for students with autism.