Workshops in your area!
In an effort to reach greater numbers of parents, and professionals in the field working with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders, Community Autism Resources offers a limited number of courses and workshops at your location.

The following courses are available:

• Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorders (2hrs): The myths surrounding Autism, the subcatergories of Pervasive Development Disorders, and the similarities and differences between Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome and PDD-NOS. Also included is a brief overview of the central deficits found in Autism Spectrum Disorders, including: social, communication, executive function, sensory processing and behavior challenges. The presenter encourages during the presentation as a means to help the audience get the information that they need for the course. Jan Randall or Patricia Leonard-Toomey
  
  
• Understanding Special Education Law (2hrs): This course will provide detailed information regarding special education law. The presenter will assist parents and professionals to understand the basic tenants of the major special education Laws. Participants will review the essential steps necessary in preparing for TEAM meetings and a review of the special education process information as outlined in our State Law will be provided. Patricia Leonard- Toomey
  
  
• Understanding the Assessment Process for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, from a Legal and Educational Perspective  (2hrs.): Janet McTarnaghan
  
  
• Circle of Friends (2.5hrs): This two part program will provide information on establishing social supports for children in school settings. Part One will define the Circle of Friends program and other social support strategies. The information is intended to provide some background information on the importance of circles, various support programs, the philosophy of behind them, as well as to provide more detailed information on the basic elements involved in all circles of support. Part Two will provide step by step information on the process and resources needed to establish a variety of social supports within the school setting. This will provides hands-on program! Participation by school teams is encouraged. Kate Dansereau
  
  
• Learning about Communication, Social Strengths, and Challenges in Autism Spectrum Disorders (2hrs): This course will detail those challenges andstrengths associated with communication and social issues affecting the lives of persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders (A.S.D.) A variety of practical strategies will be discussed for supporting individuals in home, school, and community settings. Kate Dansereau
  
  
• Learning about Sensory, Behavioral Strengths, and Challenges in Autism Spectrum Disorders (2hrs, We strongly suggest you take the Communication, Social Strengths, and Challenges course first): This course will detail those challenges and strengths associated with behavioral and sensory issues affecting the lives of persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders (A.S.D.). The presenter will discuss the consideration of neurological , communication, sensory, and social issues which influence behavior in individuals with A.S.D. in addition, key information regarding sensory processing will be highlighted. A variety of practical strategies will be discussed for supporting individuals in home, school, school, and community settings. Jan Randall
  
  
• Understanding and Using Visual Systems with Individuals with ASD (2.5hrs): What we mean when we use the word “visuals” and why it is important to present information visually to people with ASD. There will be an overview of specific processing challenges of people with ASD and information about how visuals can be helpful in compensating for these challenges. An explanation as to how visuals can be a benefit a person with ASD will be provided. There will also be examples of the types of media available. There will be a demonstration of specific visual systems that have been developed for various individuals with ASD. Linda Armstrong
  
  
• Understanding and Responding to Challenging Behavior: It's Not as Simple as ABC (2; 2 hr sessions): This course will help participants gain a greater understanding of why children and adults with autism may exhibit challenging behaviors. Means for interpreting behavior and responding to individuals in facilitative ways will be explored. Janet McTarnaghan
  
  
• Introduction to Asperger's Syndrome (2hrs): This course is designed to help family members and professionals understand the characteristics exhibited by individuals with AS. We will look at the strengths as well as the challenges of the AS learning profile. Janet McTarnaghan
  
  
• Inclusion of Students with Autism: What Every Classroom Teacher Should Know! (3hrs): This course will explore the learning profile of students with autism, including strengths and weaknesses that are present, and their impact in the classroom. Accommodations for school-aged students with autism will be discussed. Janet McTarnaghan
  
  
• Paraprofessional Training: Working with Individuals with ASD (2hrs): The focus of this course is on assisting paraprofessionals in developing a better understanding of the student with ASD. An emphasis is placed on understanding and interpreting behavior, along with strategies designed to help the student with ASD regulate his or behavior. Janet McTarnaghan
  
  
• Finding Local, State, and Federal Resources for ASD (2hrs): This course covers a wide array of services and supports available from Community Autism Resources; resources available from other service agencies in Southeastern Massachusetts, interesting and unique resources, materials and services that are available for families of children, teens and adults with ASD at a state and national level. Jan Randall
  
  
• Review of Best Practice in the Education and Support of Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (2hrs.) Janet McTarnaghan
  
  
• Learning Styles of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (5 hrs.) Janet McTarnaghan
  

Requirements for Accessing Courses
You must contact the course coordinator listed with each course description.

• Courses and workshops must be scheduled at least one month in advanced
• You must have a minimum of 10 participants
• Course booking is subject to staff availability
• Course are free, but a nominal fee will be charged to those outside our service region