Understanding Autism Page 1

Agenda

Page #

Course Agenda
What is Autism?
Autism — What We Know
Discussion: Reflection (1/3)
Autism Facts and Statistics
Common Myths
Vaccines Do Not Cause Autism
Signs and Symptoms: Social
Signs and Symptoms: Communication
Signs and Symptoms: Behaviors
Autism Awareness
Early Signs and Red Flags
Developmental Red Flags
Early Signs of Autism
Physical and Medical Issues
Approaching Parents with Concerns
Your Role as an Educator
Autism Tool: Sensory
Autism Tool: Visual Aids
Autism Tool: Social Stories
Social Story (2/3)
Things to Keep in Mind
What it Feels Like to be Autistic
End of Course Quiz (3/3)
Course Evaluation Form

Course Description

2 Clock Hours
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong condition that affects the way a person communicates and relates to those around them. Teaching and caring for those with ASD presents a unique set of challenges and responsibilities. This course serves as an introduction to the topic of autism. Causes, symptoms, and misconceptions will be presented as well as information on recognizing signs and common behaviors in children. Additionally, strategies and approaches on how educators can better support students with autism and their families will be included.

Learning Outcomes

Identify and debunk myths regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder
Describe typical symptoms associated with autism
Give examples of helpful instructional strategies that educators can use with children with autism in their classrooms
List several medical issues that may accompany ASD
Identify common “red flags” of development that educators should be familiar with
Describe your role as an educator for assisting parents and guardians with the diagnosis of autism

Page 1

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Enrollment

If you have not previously purchased this course, you may do so now.

Registration Fee: $19.00

Important Student Information

Course Acknowledgments

A special thank you to Kimberlee Turner, MS Ed and Erika Booth, BA Ed for developing the curriculum for this topic.

Course Resource Items

CDA Criteria for this Course

CDA Settings:

Infant/Toddler
Preschool
Family Child Care (Mixed-Age)

CDA Content Area: Observing and Recording Children's Behavior (2 hours)

Technical Requirements:

Laptop or PC
Most students are able to use mobile devices such as tablets to complete courses. However, each device is different, and an individual's skill level with the device may determine their success with using a mobile device.
Recommended web browser: Google Chrome

- Microsoft Edge, Safari and Firefox are other acceptable browsers.
- Internet Explorer is no longer supported by Microsoft, and you may have issues if you use it to take training.

Operating System

- Make sure you’re using a current operating system (for example, Windows 10).
- Outdated operating systems may cause technical difficulties.

Internet Speed

- Slow internet speed may impact loading time.

Videos may require Adobe Flash Player.

Sources

What Are the Symptoms of Autism?, Autism Speaks Inc. https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism/symptoms
Signs of Autism, National Autism Association, http://nationalautismassociation.org/resources/signs-of-autism/
What Causes Autism?, United Cerebral Palsy http://www.mychildwithoutlimits.org/understand/autism/what-causes-autism/
Teaching young children on the autism spectrum, The National Autistic Society, http://www.autism.org.uk/professionals/teachers/teaching-young-children.aspx
Teaching Students with Autism, A Resource Guide for Schools, British Columbia, Ministry of Education, https://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/specialed/docs/autism.pdf
10 Facts about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), U.S. Department of Health & Human Services https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ecd/10-facts-about-asd
Autism: Suggestions for schools and early learning services, Australian Government Dept. of Health, https://www.kidsmatter.edu.au/mental-health-matters/autism-spectrum-disorders/suggestions-schools-and-early-learning-services
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Signs and Symptoms, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/signs.html