Conference and Networking for Autism in the Classroom

Autism Support Network Society

Enhancing Support for Neurodiverse Learners

UBC Robson Square

The Autism Support Network Society and the BC Association for Behaviour Analysis offer this rare opportunity to learn from autism specialists and network with other teachers of autistic students.Event highlights:<ul><li>Friday January 24, 2025</li><li>Conference 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. followed by a complimentary Happy Hour</li><li>Attend in person at UBC Robson Square, Vancouver, or ONLINE via Zoom</li><li>Group registration rates are available</li><li>Keynote Pat Mirenda, PH.D, BCBA-D</li><li>Six breakout session options hosted by Board Certified Behaviour Analysts</li><li>Scheduled networking times</li><li>Coffee, snacks, lunch and happy hour are included</li><li>Optional networking dinner at C-Prime restaurant in Vancouver</li><li>Preferred rate available at Century Plaza Hotel, Vancouver</li></ul>Event Details:Join us ONLINE or IN PERSON at <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hjo5t8FVZTkKB3LB9" title="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hjo5t8FVZTkKB3LB9" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">UBC Robson Square</a> in Vancouver, BC, for a professional development and networking event for Elementary Educators. We are happy to offer a comprehensive event with a world-renowned keynote speaker and a choice of informative break-out sessions given by Board Certified Behaviour Analysts. Speakers will be available during coffee and lunch breaks to answer questions or engage in conversations.Please contact elaine@autismsupportbc.ca if you would like a group rate for five or more online registrations.Space is limited for in-person attendees. Get your tickets now.The conference will be followed by a complimentary Happy Hour at UBC for attendees, which will allow further networking and sharing. <a href="https://reservations.century-plaza.com/98123?groupID=4557823#/guestsandrooms" title="https://reservations.century-plaza.com/98123?groupID=4557823#/guestsandrooms" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">STAY at the Century Plaza Hotel, downtown Vancouver for $169/night</a>.Come to Vancouver to learn from autism experts, exchange ideas with fellow teachers, then enjoy a weekend in Vancouver. Please book separately<a href="https://reservations.century-plaza.com/98123?groupID=4557823#/guestsandrooms" title="https://reservations.century-plaza.com/98123?groupID=4557823#/guestsandrooms" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer"> HERE</a> while availability for this discounted rate lasts. The Century Plaza is conveniently located just a ten-minute walk from UBC - no rental car is required.If you would like to continue networking after the conference at <a href="https://www.cprime.ca/menu" title="https://www.cprime.ca/menu" target="_blank" data-msys-clicktrack="0" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">C Prime Restaurant</a>, located in the Century Plaza Hotel, you can add a dinner reservation ticket when you purchase your conference ticket. *Please note that the ticket is for reservation purposes only—you will be responsible for purchasing your own dinner.We welcome both online and in-person attendees to the C Prime dinner gathering. <h3>KEYNOTE by Pat Mirenda, Ph.D., BCBA-D</h3><h4>Supporting Students with Autism: YOU can make a difference</h4> Pat Mirenda, Ph.D., BCBA-D (she, her, hers)Pat Mirenda, Ph.D. is Professor Emerita in the Department of Educational &amp; Counselling Psychology and Special Education at the University of British Columbia (UBC), where she was also the Director of the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research and Collaboration in Autism (CIRCA). She taught graduate and undergraduate courses at UBC from 1994-2020 on topics that include augmentative communication, autism spectrum disorder, inclusive education, applied behaviour analysis, and positive behaviour support. She has published over 200 research articles, books, and chapters and presents frequently at international, national, and regional conferences. Since retiring from UBC at the end of 2020, she has worked closely with the Office of the Representative for Children and Youth and has acted as Chair of the BC Disability Collaborative. <h3>You can choose between 6 BREAKOUT ROOM OPTIONS:</h3> <h3>Set 1</h3><h4>A) Autism in the South Asian Culture</h4>by: Deepika Sheemar (parent) and Jessica Grewal, BCBAAutism in the South Asian community often faces cultural stigmas, leading to a lack of open discussion and awareness about neurodiversity. Traditional beliefs may view autism as a Western concept or attribute it to parental shortcomings, leading to feelings of guilt and isolation for families. Learn how teachers can help families to seek professional help without fearing judgment or exclusion. Increasing education and support networks can help break stigmas, fostering acceptance and understanding within the community. <h4>B) Building Bridges: Enhancing Home-School Collaboration</h4>by: Kristen Van Akker (teacher), Chantal Hill (IST), and Dr Sarah Pastrana (private BCBA)This panel explores strategies for fostering meaningful collaboration among families, school teams, and external professionals. Topics include building therapeutic alliances with families, empowering parents in meetings, implementing neurodiversity-affirming practices, and enhancing staff capacity to support diverse learners. Practical insights will also address actionable steps to create inclusive, student-centered educational environments. <h3>Set 2</h3><h4>A) Empowering Learners with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance)</h4>by: Michelle Karren, M.Sc., BCBAPathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), sometimes referred to as a “Persistent Drive for Autonomy,” is becoming more widely understood as part of the autism spectrum. In this workshop, we’ll explore how this unique profile may present in school-age learners and the strengths they bring to the classroom.This workshop will explore both the potential challenges and the valuable contributions these learners offer. The workshop will also highlight how shifting our perspective and language can lead to more creative and inclusive approaches to supporting these students. <h4>B) Girls on the Spectrum</h4>by: Dr. Sara White BCBA-DAccording to recent research, girls on the spectrum are often under-diagnosed. While symptoms are similar, they often present in slightly different ways that can make it more difficult to detect. They are often better at masking their difficulties and emotions and more motivated to engage in social interactions. This presentation will provide strategies for supporting girls on the spectrum in the classroom. <h3>Set 3</h3><h4>A) Sunsets and Math problems: Strategies to Support Skill Development and Curricular Adaptations</h4>by: Dr Tyla Frewing, MA, BCBA-DIn this workshop, Tyla will provide an overview of the considerations for selecting instructional strategies for exceptional learners, strategies, for teaching new skills and questions to ask when learning does not progress as planned. This workshop, designed for Classroom Teachers, Support Teachers and Education Assistants will include opportunities to apply presentation content during hands-on activities. Attendees will leave the workshop with concrete strategies and resources for use when they return to the classroom. <h4>B) Soft Skills: Creating a Social-Emotional Support System for Students with Unique Needs</h4>by: Bohdanna Popowycz, M.Ed BCBA LBABy adapting and modifying the curriculum to meet individual needs, it is possible to support every student from diverse perspectives. In this workshop, you will learn practical strategies to help students feel included and engaged in the classroom and to provide support throughout the entire school day. There is always a way to connect, reflect, and offer meaningful support!

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