Participants will learn ways to address a variety of communication challenges in young children with autism in this online training. Strategies including naturalistic behavioral developmental interventions (NBDI) such as the Early Start Denver Model, Incidental Teaching etc. as well as parent coaching strategies will be presented.  The goal is to have increased social engagement and social communication as outcomes.

1.1 Understands typical and atypical development and multiple factors that influence development from conception through infancy and early childhood
1.1 l. Applies current knowledge and theories about specific developmental delays, developmental disabilities, and risk factors, to advocate on behalf of young children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families

2.3 Provides families with opportunities to learn and develop skills to help children achieve desired outcomes within the program, at home, and in the community
2.3 f. Empowers and coaches families to implement easy-to-use tools and strategies at home that achieve desired outcomes and goals
2.3 h. Uses coaching or consultation strategies with parents and other primary caregivers to teach intentionally designed instruction and to promote positive adult-child interactions

      3.1 Uses observation and assessment to support children’s development and learning
3.1 i. Uses assessment practices that are relevant to the language and developmental needs of individual children as shown through both verbal and nonverbal behaviors.

4.2 Creates an environment that is predictable, promotes interaction and learning, and is responsive to the needs of all children
4.2 c. Establishes clear, consistent, and realistic boundaries based on developmentally appropriate expectations
4.2 e. Teaches the steps involved in routines and tasks (i.e., repeats directions, provides visual support while giving directions, uses visual and/or verbal prompts to help children follow through when necessary)
4.2 f. Uses a steady, calm tone and consistent, predictable signals when providing direction and redirection to children

6.2 Demonstrates dispositions necessary to effectively support children and families
6.2 j. Links current research and best practices in education, family health, and/or disability services to own work by keeping abreast of new information and reflecting on its relevance

Theoretical Foundations – Infant/young child & family centered practice, Relationship-focused practice