Super Powers Activate! Embracing ADHD and Autism
You searched the web to try to figure out what is wrong with your child. He is socially awkward, is in constant motion and can’t seem to stay focused long enough to get anything accomplished. You have stumbled upon the criteria for Autism and he meets just about everything that's mentioned. But it can’t be Autism . . . you think, anything but Autism. Attend this workshop to learn that nothing is “wrong” with your child and grasp/learn everything that is “right” about ADHD and Autism. Believe it or not, these two “labels” are actually wonderful opportunities for greatness, depending on how you think about them. Join us as we change the conversation. |
The Autism Umbrella
My child was diagnosed with ADHD, Sensory Integration, Auditory Processing and Anxiety. None of the treatments are working and he is starting to become defiant. What is going on? Come learn about the Autism Umbrella and how many common childhood challenges can equal Autism when they all present together. Let’s also talk about how the treatment changes once Autism has been identified. We will pour out information during this presentation so come prepared to get drenched! |
Challenging Behaviors
So your child doesn't seem to act like the other children his or her age and it happens not just at home but in daycare, school and extracurricular events. Your first impulse is to deny this behavior, consider it a response to instigation from other kids, or blame it on how his teacher or coach is interpreting the situation. Deep down inside you know that something isn't quite right but you have no idea what to do about it since everything you have tried in the past hasn't worked. Let's take a closer look at challenging behaviors; what they mean and what can be done about them. We'll determine how these behaviors can be a clue to a foundational issue in a typically developing child and when a re-evaluation is indicated in a child with special needs. We'll also talk about the key components of effective communication and how to be a strong advocate for your child. |
Challenging Behaviors, Strategies and Techniques for Management
This workshop builds on the Challenging Behaviors Overview and provides practical interventions for a childcare provider to use to address unwanted behaviors within the classroom. These strategies take into consideration that many of these behaviors are not willful or intentional and how to perceive situations from the child’s point of view in order to provide a supportive and encouraging environment. |
A Fresh Perspective on Medication Intervention for ADHD and Autism
Many parents fear the diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism not because of the condition itself but because of the fear of the medications that may be recommended for treatment. Although this fear may be real, it can be lessened through detailed and practical information provided by an experienced prescribing physician. “Why does my child need to be on medication? What time is the right time to start? Is my child going to be on medication for the rest of his life? My child is a "zombie", is that okay? What behavior change should I expect? I agreed to one medication, why is she now on five - when is enough, enough? This isn't working, what are my options?” Let's start the conversation that most parents have never had . . . The truth is that medication is a tool and not the "fix". Learn everything you ever wanted to know about medications used for ADHD and determine if and what medication may be right for your child. |
Effective Communication Using Love Languages and Learning Styles
Communicating with your child can be a challenge for any parent but it can be especially challenging having a child with special needs. Parents often wonder if their child is listening or maybe they are speaking a foreign language. The reality is that if you aren't using a child's preferred learning style they may honestly not understand what you are saying and without considering their love language, they may not truly care. In this workshop you will learn how to identify your child's learning style and how to alter your communication so that you maximize their understanding. Additionally, you will learn how to speak their love language so that they will value what you have to say. With these two strategies you will be able to communicate effectively and avoid the pitfalls and consequences of ineffective communication. |
My Child Has ADHD & Autism, Now What? Understanding Interventions.
After an extensive battery of testing you have been told that your child has ADHD or Autism. It takes you a couple of weeks to mentally process the diagnoses and now you are left wondering what to do now. The report has two pages of recommendations but where do you start? Let's take a practical approach to understanding what services your child may need, why they need them, where and how to access the services and how to prioritize. In this workshop we will touch on medication management, behavioral interventions, OT, PT, Speech and what your school should be doing to help your child. |
ADHD Reimagined: From Fear to Acceptance.
ADHD had undergone a significant transformation in the last several years from a little known and feared behavior problem to a more widely accepted
neurodevelopmental disorder. Let’s go on a journey with an undiagnosed student through her academic and social challenges to the realization of the power that is ADHD. See how the impact of a diagnosis has evolved from one of dismay to empowerment not just for the individual diagnosed but also for other struggling family members to include adults who elect to also be tested. We also discuss how to build a village of life-long support and encouragement so that the individual with ADHD will understand how to reach her fullest potential and the awesome benefits of being gifted with ADHD. |
"Put Your Mask on First": The New Normal of Parenting a Child with Special Needs.
The recent Coronavirus pandemic has completely destabilized our nation and families with special needs children are feeling the stress like no one else. As schools shift to virtual curriculums, parents have become even more appreciative of special educators but its nearly impossible to replicate their ability to educate their own kids. Lives that were barely balanced are now completely unbalanced and parents are finding less time for themselves. In this workshop we talk about what life looks life during a major event like a pandemic, setting realistic expectations, finding balance and mindfulness. You must be intentional to put your mask on first and recognize that your health is paramount to the health and wellness of your family. |
Supporting Adults with "Invisible" Disabilities in the Workplace.
As organizations push for more diversity and inclusion in their workplace, it is imperative that we remain sensitive to those “invisible” disabilities that are frequently present as well. How do we encourage the input and support the performance of adult employees who may have ADHD, autism, learning differences or mood disorders that may influence their work product? This workshop will provide an operational foundation looking at primary and secondary characteristics of diversity, address power issues between dominant and marginalized communities and address how emotional intelligence shows up in the workplace. We will then focus the bulk of the training on how disabilities show up and learn how to engage sensitive conversations surrounding support and accommodations for valued members of the organization. |
Why Autism in Girls is Often Missed.
Your daughter seemed like every other girl in elementary school, but things are different now that she is in middle school. She is having difficulty making friends and has made a comment that she does not seem to fit in. You have noticed that she is isolating more and does not seem happy. She is maintaining her grades but will randomly ask not to go to school. Your older son has ADHD and autism, but this doesn’t look anything like that to you. Something is going on, but you have no idea where to begin to figure it out. In this workshop we will discuss what autism looks like in females and why it should be considered sooner rather than later. |
What about me? Adults with ADHD and Autism.
Did you know that ADHD and Autism can run in families? Many parents are starting to wonder why they are struggling to help their children who have recently been diagnosed. They can’t keep up with all of the appointments that need to be scheduled, the information from the school meetings tends to be overwhelming and let’s not even talk about how to help with homework! Trying to keep a job, manage your family and support a special needs child has led many parents to ask the question, “What about me? Could I also have ADHD or Autism?” Let’s talk about what ADHD and Autism looks like in adults and where to go for help. |