Supporting Autistic and Neurodiverse Children

This training will provide an overview of autism and neurodiversity, with an emphasis on practical, neuro-affirming strategies for supporting autistic and neurodiverse young children across home, childcare, and other early learning environments.

Participants will explore how differences in communication, sensory processing, regulation, and information processing may influence a child's participation in everyday routines and activities. The training will examine how environmental adaptations, predictable routines, individualized sensory supports, and visual strategies can promote communication, engagement, emotional regulation, and independence.

Through practical examples, participants will learn to look beyond observable behaviors to consider the underlying needs a child may be communicating. Strategies will emphasize proactive support, respect for individual differences, and the importance of adapting environments and adult expectations rather than focusing solely on changing a child's behavior.

The presentation will also highlight opportunities to incorporate a child's interests, strengths, and preferred ways of communicating into everyday interactions and learning experiences. Emphasis will be placed on partnering with families, collaborating across disciplines, and adapting strategies to fit each child's unique strengths, needs, and natural environments.

Participants will also receive an overview of The Autism Program (TAP) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, including available resources, consultation services, and materials that may support their work with autistic children and their families.

More from our presenter:  Adrienne Shockley

Adrienne Shockley is the Associate Director of The Autism Program at UIUC and an instructor of autism and neurodiversity in the Department of Human Development & Family Services. She oversees TAP’s Resource Room and student interns who help staff it. She also provides community support and training on autism and neurodiversity, primarily in early childhood settings. She has a background in early childhood special education, developmental therapy, and training in the PLAY Project. She uses this knowledge to run a play group for preschool-aged children on the spectrum-providing parents and caregivers coaching to foster their children’s play and communication skills. 

Early Intervention Credits:  TBD

There will be a free reflective practice session offered after the webinar for all IDTA Members ONLY. This will require a separate registration. 

Please note, a strict no cancellation policy will be enforced for all IDTA webinar