Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate Program
Chileda in cooperation with
the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Available for University Credit or CEUs!
Autism
Autism is characterized by difficulties in communication, unusual responses to sensory stimuli, difficulty relating to people or to the environment, and developmental discrepancies. All of those with autism share a common symptom cluster, yet each student’s personality, interests and responses to problems are influenced by the severity of the autism and intellectual ability, the impact of additional disabilities, inherited traits, family culture, and past educational and community experiences. Although considered a relatively uncommon disorder, the incidence of individuals with autism spectrum disorders is ten times more prevalent than ten years ago and it requires specific teaching strategies for individuals to successfully participate in home, school, and community life. This training will review the history of autism and common characteristics. Best teaching practices for communication, education, nutrition, medication, sensory, social, and vocational issues will also be presented. Finally, a review of controversial treatments will be discussed.
Who Will Benefit
School personnel including regular and special educators, paraprofessionals, speech pathologists, occupational therapists; medical field professionals including psychologists and mental health counselors; health and human services workers; parents and family members of persons with ASD, or anyone who currently or will provide direct support or service to individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder in the home, school, work and community setting.
Participants Will:
- Understand the diagnostic criteria for and characteristics of autism
- Become familiar with a variety of communication strategies for individuals with autism
- Develop an understanding of strategies that help develop social skills
- Become familiar with the use of nutritional supplements and medications that can relieve some of the symptoms of autism
- Develop an awareness of sensory integration difficulties of individuals with autism and strategies to provide appropriate sensory input
- Become more aware of the needs of families with individuals with autism
- Develop an understanding of non-intrusive behavior strategies to support social behaviors
- Develop an understanding of alternative therapies and ways to judge the validity of these therapies
UW-La Crosse is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. UW-La Crosse maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
