Autism Society records most keynote and concurrent sessions at their annual conferences. You can see and hear those recordings by purchasing full online access, or individual recordings.
Registered attendees have free access, please select the button above for the file you would like to access.
Purchase AccessBeginning with a brief overview of the characteristics of children with HFA and AS, this session will provide a discussion as well as examples of tools for the homes, including visual supports, priming and predictions, and reward systems. Activities that support community outings and how to handle child meltdowns in public will also be discussed. Easy-to-use strategies related to family outings, such as family reunions, picnics, and movies, will also be outlined. Essential components such as helping relatives understand a child with AS or HFA, having realistic expectations for the child and relatives, understanding the impact of sensory issues on outings, and structuring successful family times will also be discussed.
Empowerment strategies are an important part of this presentation. Parent attendees will be provided information on how to have confidence in their role as an expert on their children and how to serve as an advocate for their children. Educator attendees will be encouraged to view parents as a resource and support person who has information that is meaningful and valid. In addition, parents will be provided information on the importance of taking care of themselves to ensure that they can be at their best for their children.
The learning objectives are as follows. Following the presentations, learners will be able to:
1. Understand the characteristics of AS/HFA that impact the family.
2. Identify strategies to facilitate a successful day-to-day life.
3. Name techniques and supports that can be used with extended family members.
4. Plan vacations that are successful for families with a member with HFA/AS.
5. Understand and use empowerment strategies.
Content Area: Family and Sibling Support
Brenda S. Myles
Professor
University of Kansas
Kristi Sakai
Parent and Author
Ronda Schelvan
Special Education Teacher