All parents who have registered with Geneva Centre for Autism and have spoken to one of our Social Workers are encouraged to attend The Foundation sessions at any time during their involvement with the Centre.
What are The Foundations?
Seven parent education sessions including the following topics:
- Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Introduction to Asperger Syndrome
- Intervention Options
- Communication
- Sensory Motor Development
- Understanding Behaviour
- Learning and Teaching
- The Ziggurat Model
When are they offered?
Each Foundation is offered once per month. Please see the parent calendar for dates and times.
How will they help parents?
Although many parents/caregivers come to us with very specific or special concerns we strongly suggest that they first attend the Foundation workshops. The Foundation workshops provide parents/caregivers with concepts and language essential for understanding the characteristics associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders. These workshops are an important building-block of knowledge. All workshops take place at Geneva Centre for Autism unless otherwise noted. Please note that there are 2 parts to Foundation1. 1(A) is Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders and 1(B) is Introduction to Asperger Syndrome. Parents may choose to attend either or both of these sessions.Please note that Foundations 2 through 7 are only for parents/caregivers who are registered with GCA.
How do parents register?
Call (416) 322-7877 ext. 0
F1A Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders Top
Attend this presentation to get a good overview of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) with a focus on autism, Asperger Syndrome and Pervasive Development Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PPD-NOS). Learn how a diagnosis is made, how to recognize the characteristics of autism, current trends in autism research and common strengths and challenges of individuals with an ASD. An individual with an ASD will share their first-hand experiences and answers questions from participants.
NOTE: There is no charge for this workshop, but please register in advance to ensure availability
F1B Introduction to Asperger Syndrome Top
This session provides an overview of the diagnostic criteria for Asperger Syndrome (AS). Discussion includes: learning characteristics, differences between Autistic Disorder and Asperger Syndrome, and common strengths and needs of individuals with AS. Intervention and support strategies that have proven to be effective will be reviewed.
NOTE: There is no charge for this workshop, but please register in advance to ensure availability.
F2 Intervention Options Top
This workshop provides a framework for understanding the wide range of treatment approaches and principles for developing intervention plans for individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Resources and contact information is provided.
F3 Communication Top
This workshop provides a framework for understanding what “communication” means for a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Speech-Language Pathologists discuss their role and help parents/caregivers understand the characteristics of autism impacting speech, language and social interactions. Strategies to facilitate communication, understanding, and social skills will be provided for verbal and non-verbal individuals.
F4 Sensory Motor Development Top
Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder often experience sensory and motor differences which impact their behaviour, ability to acquire skills and their general quality of life. This session provides a framework for understanding these sensory motor differences. Indicators to help determine whether a child is experiencing these differences are discussed and general strategies to enhance sensory and motor functions are provided.
F5 Understanding Behaviour Top
This workshop provides a framework for understanding the basic principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis. The topics covered include defining behaviour, reinforcement, functional analysis of behaviour and understanding antecedents and consequences. A focus is placed on the communicative function of behaviour.
F6 Learning and teaching Top
During this session, various learning styles typical of individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are presented. Discussion includes the importance of recognizing these learning styles and how teaching styles may be adapted to accommodate particular learning styles.
F7 Overview of the Ziggurat Model Top
During this session, participants explore the Ziggurat Model, a comprehensive planning system for individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Parents learn about the various assessment and planning tools that make up the model, how these fit within the Geneva Centre’s model of service and how they can provide insights about an individual’s strengths and needs. Activities focus on how to use these tools both inside and outside Geneva Centre.
