24th  Annual Alabama Autism Conference Learner Objectives

Supporting Emotion Regulation in Young Autistic Children Using Cognitive Behavioral Strategies
Angela Scarpa, Ph.D.

  1. Define emotion regulation and describe challenges experienced by young autistic children.
  2. List three reasons emotion regulation may be difficult for young autistic children.
  3. Describe four cognitive behavioral tools to support emotion regulation in young autistic children.

Supporting Communication in Toddlers with Autism: From Early Intervention to Effective Intervention
Megan Roberts, Ph.D., CCC-SLP

  1. Identify critical elements of early intervention for autistic toddlers.
  2. Describe ways to engage caregivers in early intervention.
  3. Describe methods for talking to caregivers about autism.

Supporting the Inclusion of Autistic Children in Schools and Communities
Laci Watkins, Ph.D., BCBA

  1. Review current best practices for inclusive education.
  2. Identify effective strategies to support autistic students in inclusive settings.
  3. Discuss the importance of interaction and play between children with and without autism.

Expanding Treatment Options for Food Selectivity in Autistic Youth
Emily Kuschner, Ph.D.

  1. Provide an overview of feeding and eating concerns in autistic youth.
  2. Review available treatments (and treatment gaps) for feeding and eating concerns in autistic youth.
  3. Explain cognitive behavioral treatment for food selectivity in school-age autistic youth.
  4. Discuss the utility of considering a personalized, stepped care approach to treatment development, adaptation, and optimization in this area.

Applied Behavior Analysis and Autism: Embracing the Nuance
Yev Veverka, Ph.D

  1. Develop a broader awareness of the scope and purpose of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), including what it is and what it is not.
  2. Understand the importance of context and how cultural, environmental, and individual factors influence the application and outcomes of ABA.
  3. Recognize the value of embracing nuance in conversations about ABA to foster more thoughtful, informed, and client-centered practices.

Granting Access: Dismantling Ableism and Embracing Autistic Identity
Haley Moss
      1. Identify what ableism is, as well as 3 types of ableism.
2. Create a sense of identity, community, and care through access and breaking down barriers.
3. Challenge our own experiences with ableism and stereotyping on the basis of disability.