Empowering Educators: Comprehensive Autism Training for Inclusive Classrooms

Introduction

Creating a more supportive, inclusive, and accepting society begins with improving our understanding of Autism. Autism is unique. Autism is community, connection, and progress. Special education teachers, related services personnel, general education teachers, and other educators are very important in supporting students with ASD to be successful! To equip educators with the necessary tools and knowledge, comprehensive autism training programs are essential. These programs aim to foster positive learning experiences for students with autism by addressing the neurological, communicative, sensory, and social aspects of Autism.

Understanding Autism: Foundations and Beyond

The Foundations of Autism course package provides an exploration of Autism, key characteristics, and experiences from the Autism community. Topics covered in the course include the neurological, communicative, sensory, and social aspects of Autism. Parents, caregivers, educators, professionals, and individuals interested in deepening their understanding of Autism are invited to join this course. The Foundations of Autism courses provide an exploration of Autism and Autistic experiences. Developed for a diverse audience, Autistic individuals, parents, caregivers, educators, professionals, and others interested in deepening their understanding of Autism are invited to participate. This course package provides an exploration of Autism, key characteristics, and experiences from the Autism community. Topics covered in the course include the neurological, communicative, sensory, and social aspects of Autism. Parents, caregivers, educators, professionals, and individuals interested in deepening their understanding of Autism are invited to join this course. The Foundations of Autism: Beyond The Basics course expands on topics introduced in Foundations of Autism: The Basics.

Creating Autism-Informed Workplaces: A Multi-Module Training Program

Autistic individuals bring valuable perspectives, skills, and creativity to the workplace. Yet traditional work environments often overlook the importance of inclusive communication, sensory considerations, emotional regulation, and social belonging. The Becoming an Autism-Informed Organization series is a six-module training program designed for HR leaders, managers, supervisors, and organizational teams. Each course builds on the last, offering a comprehensive overview of Autism and practical tools for workplace inclusion. The curriculum covers foundational Autism awareness, executive function, communication strategies, sensory needs, emotional regulation, and social inclusion.

Module 1: Understanding Autism and the Workplace

Becoming an Autism-Informed Organization: Understanding Autism and the Workplace is an introductory course designed to help individuals and organizations create inclusive workplaces for Autistic individuals.

Module 2: Supporting Information Processing and Executive Function

Becoming an Autism-Informed Organization: Supporting Information Processing and Executive Function is a course designed to deepen understanding of Autistic cognitive styles and their impact on workplace experience.

Module 3: Workplace Communication Strategies

Becoming an Autism-Informed Organization: Workplace Communication Strategies is a comprehensive training designed to help employers, managers, and coworkers better understand communication diversity in the workplace. Through five detailed chapters, participants explore communication theory, common communication challenges for Autistic individuals, strategies for inclusive communication, and tools like AAC, visual supports, and digital accessibility.

Module 4: Sensory Considerations and Practices

Becoming an Autism-Informed Organization: Sensory Considerations and Practices is the fourth course in our series, equipping organizations with the knowledge and tools to support sensory diversity. Participants will learn the foundations of sensory processing, explore how sensory differences impact work environments, and discover practical strategies to create more inclusive spaces-whether in-person or remote.

Module 5: Navigating Emotional Regulation

Becoming an Autism-Informed Organization: Navigating Emotional Regulation is a practical, insight-driven course that explores the emotional experiences of Autistic individuals at work. Through visual models, real-world examples, and reflective prompts, this training breaks down the complexity of emotional regulation, the impact of alexithymia, and the role of stress, sensory input, and executive function. Children and adolescents with autism sometimes spiral into explosive behaviors. manage their emotions, develop self-control, and build positive behaviors.

Module 6: Embracing Social Inclusion and Belonging

Becoming an Autism-Informed Organization: Embracing Social Inclusion and Belonging explores how to create workplace cultures that value connection, equity, and meaningful inclusion. Participants will learn how social norms, team dynamics, and emotional needs impact Autistic individuals-and how to support inclusion through structured collaboration, clear expectations, and inclusive practices.

VCU-ACE: Resources, Tools, and Training Opportunities for Educators

VCU-ACE has created many resources, tools, and training opportunities with you in mind.

Online Courses

We offer a number of online courses for educators. Some of our courses are facilitated and some of them are self-paced so you can choose what works for you! Want an easy way to keep track of your trainings? Click here to access your personal dashboard where you can see what training options are available and track your progress!

Ask the Expert Series

The Ask the Expert Series discuss important topics for educators by providing a very brief overview of the topic, discuss why it is important, and provide important tips that are relevant to the topic.

How To Video Series

Our How To Video Series are short videos that lets you see how to implement some of the strategies that are important for all students, and particularly those with ASD. These videos give brief explanations to remind you about important information and then provide video examples of the skill or practice.

Topics and Trends Webcast Series

Presentations in the Topics and Trends Webcast Series are delivered by national and state authorities in the field of ASD. Hear up-to-date research and detailed information about evidence-based strategies right from the expert in the comfort of your home or work place! These webcasts are generally 45-60 minutes long and examine a wide variety of topics important to professionals, families, and individuals with ASD.

Explore ASD Series

The Explore ASD Series contains seminars that provide a narrow focus of information on topics important to educators, families, individuals with ASD, other professionals, and community members. These presentations are approximately 30-40 minutes long and are detailed enough to provide a quick overview or review of information.

Resource Pages

Need more? We offer a variety of resources based on important topics in ASD. Our resource pages include VCU-ACE resources, as well as some outside resources you may find helpful. Simply click on the topic you are interested in, and you will find more information and training opportunities.

UNC TEACCH® Autism Program: Training and Consultation

UNC TEACCH® Autism Program offers a variety of training and consultation to professionals who work with individuals on the autism spectrum. This training and consultation are offered in the state of North Carolina as well as programs across the United States and around the world. TEACCH® is a registered trademark of the University of North Carolina TEACCH® Autism Program. The use of the word TEACCH in conjunction with any products or training is strictly prohibited without written permission from the UNC TEACCH® Autism Program. The University of North Carolina TEACCH® Autism Program maintains an ongoing collaborative relationship with the two organizations listed below. TEACCH recognizes that the training provided by Team Autismus GmbH & Co. strengths of each student. foster positive learning experiences. for students with autism.

Evergreen Certifications: Practical Strategies for Supporting Students with Autism

"I love how Dr. "Dr. and engaging way. "Dr. In this first module, you’ll join psychologists Dr. Ruth Aspy and Dr. differences can look like. accompany autism, like sleep problems and behavioral concerns. designed for their needs. In this module, Psychologist Dr. skills and much more. Parent v. digital communication. interests, and understand social cues more effectively. Dr. FREE BONUS SESSION with DR. When you register now, you’ll get a FREE bonus session with Dr. Dr. Public Radio, 20/20, The View, and the BBC. In this enlightening session, Dr. professionals. real-world strategies that can be implemented immediately. Yes! This training is designed for both beginners and experienced educators. The course is entirely online and consists of 4 easy-to-follow video modules. It takes around 13 hours to complete all four modules and the bonus module. for your certification through Evergreen Certifications. digital badge that you can share on your social media profiles. Review the course materials at your own pace and convenience! forever. interactive message boards. professionals all focused on working with students on the spectrum. Register for this intensive training course without risk.

The Autism Project: Autism-Informed Training Opportunities

These trainings provide early childhood staff with evidence-based tools and strategies while simultaneously engaging the audience through storytelling and first-hand accounts. Through the application of learned material, educators will create classrooms where learning and creativity are at the center of every day, for every student. The Autism Project offers a range of autism-informed training opportunities, including individual workshops, full-day trainings and multi-week series. Our team provides training both in-person and online. I almost chose not attend this workshop as a parent of an autistic child. I didn't know what to expect. I thought it would be a lot of cookie cutter compliance-based information. I was SO relieved to see and feel the compassion and understanding [the trainer] brought to this training…This was so beautifully done.

Introduction to Child Development

Introduction to Child Development* Based on the CDC’S “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” evidence-based curriculum, participants will review developmental milestones and discuss the importance of childhood development screening. Professionals will also learn how to improve effective communication with concerned families and increase knowledge of available resources.Recommended for participants who require background in general child development.*Originally Called "Creating the Connections," this training has been adapted and delivered to over 2,000 frontline professionals since 2016. The training was a resource developed by The Autism Project's HRSA-funded, 3-year project of the same name.

Autism in Early Childhood: A Deep Dive

“Autism in Early Childhood: A Deep Dive” is designed to provide participants with up-to-date information on the neurodevelopmental characteristics of autism. This workshop is appropriate for those who are new to autism, as well as for those with decades of experience. Topics are broken down into the following categories: diagnostic criteria, coexisting medical conditions, social communication, sensory processing, and cognition. Participants will leave this workshop with a deeper understanding of the unique influence of neurodevelopment on each autistic individual. “Autism in Early Childhood: A Deep Dive” celebrates autistic people while discussing the unique characteristics that require a supportive and empathetic environment.Recommended for ALL participants.

Visual Supports in Practice

“Visual Supports in Practice” provides an understanding on how to create and use visuals to better support individuals’ executive functioning challenges and accommodate their unique learning styles. Participants will discuss how to properly use a variety of different types of schedules to support transitions, to manage daily activities, and to cope with unexpected change. In addition, participants will learn to support various life skills using visuals. These skills include waiting, asking for a break, managing time, and asking for help. To support these and other skills, they will also learn about social narratives, and discuss strategies to tailor them to the individual’s needs. Finally, participants will discuss helpful tips for differentiating visuals, and methods for developing impactful material to be used across all settings.Recommended Prerequisite: Exploring Autism

Sensing Our World: How the 8 Sensory Systems Impact Regulation

Sensing Our World: How the 8 Sensory Systems Impact Regulation Most autistic people experience the world in an atypical way. Some may be hypersensitive to input. Others are hyposensitive. Most are a combination of these two sensory responses. Participants will discuss the 8 sensory systems, the impact of atypical modulation on the experience of sensory input, and strategies to assist with regulation.Recommended Prerequisite: Exploring Autism

Proactive Behavior Supports

Proactive Behavior SupportsLearning, community engagement, and relationship dynamics are often impacted by dysregulation. This dysregulation is often labeled as “challenging behavior.” The goal of this training is to provide basic information about a variety of proactive behavior strategies that can be applied to support autistic people and teach key skills. This training provides participants with information and tools to assist professionals in reframing their interpretation of “challenging behavior” and addressing it in a supportive way. With an expanded toolkit of strategies and tools, participants will be equipped to help build healthier interactions, and to foster and nurture an inclusive environment where all people can thrive.Recommended Prerequisite: Exploring Autism

A Common Goal: Fostering Empathetic Relationships Within a Child’s Team

A Common Goal: Fostering Empathetic Relationships Within a Child’s Team To deliver impactful care, a person’s team must work as a cohesive, trusting, and therapeutic network. Distrust, bias, frustration, miscommunication, cultural norms, opposing expectations, and trauma can all influence one’s approach to members of the team. These influences often lead to breakdowns in communication and can negatively impact the individual with ASD as a result. This presentation addresses, from both the family and professional perspective, causes of these communication breakdowns, and strategies for repairing and preventing them.

VKC TRIAD: Online Learning and Resources for Neurodivergent Individuals

Visit TRIAD’s online learning portal to access trainings and resources on evidence-based practices for neurodivergent individuals. Download, view, or print resources produced by VKC TRIAD. Resources are designed to expand awareness, skills, attitudes, and practices for all students, including neurodivergent students.

Early Intervention Services

In collaboration with Tennessee Early Intervention System (TEIS), we provide training and consultation to qualifying families of children currently enrolled in TEIS services across the state of TN. Professional development opportunities and trainings also available for TEIS providers.

Diagnostic Trainings

TRIAD provides interactive training for professionals to learn more about screening and diagnostic tools for individuals with autism.

ASD-PEDS

ASD-PEDS. A brief observational tool developed to assist providers in assessing autism-related behaviors in toddlers and young children.

Diagnostic and Care Management Resources for Medical and Other Pediatric Providers

Free resources designed to help providers increase screening and assessment skills for autism as well as learn how to best support families within their setting.

Identity-First Language

We recognize the words we use to describe and define individuals and groups of people are powerful. In most cases, TRIAD uses identity-first language (“autistic person,” rather than “person with autism”) which is preferred by many autistic people, including TRIAD’s autistic advisors. For more information read here. This is in recognition that identity-first language is a growing and important part of autism culture as it more directly appreciates the value and worth of autistic persons by acknowledging autism as a central part of identity. Further, it is in recognition that TRIAD does not treat or intervene on autism. That would be impossible. Instead, we strive to help autistic learners gain skills to support their ability to contact and maintain self-determined success, happiness, and joy. Neuro-affirming. Lived-experience.

Steph Reed: Autism & SEND Specialist, Trainer and Consultant

I help teachers feel confident supporting autistic and neurodivergent learners, without the overwhelm.I’m Steph Reed, an independent Autism & SEND Specialist, Trainer and Consultant. "Steph’s guidance and support has been invaluable to our federation. Steph builds excellent relationships with all staff members. visits and relish these as an opportunity to develop their practice. strategic leadership of the role. "In the time that Steph has been working with my school, I have been able to see a sustained improvement in the provision offered. This has been the case in the growing knowledge and skills of the staff she has worked alongside, the physical environment provided for autistic pupils and the outcomes for those pupils. "Steph Reed provided me with excellent support in understanding how to support autistic students. Her intricate knowledge of the curriculum and specialisms with students with SEND was invaluable. Her style of support and coaching is tailored and she took time to assess my needs and the schools. "Steph’s consultant work with our school has been a valuable tool in steering improvement of our provision for pupils with SEN. She works closely with senior leaders to coordinate our SEN strategy and plans her support based on planning meetings with our SENCo. Steph’s knowledge and expertise has been critical in supporting our teachers with their classroom practice. Her feedback is always clear and actionable and she readily provides resources and strategies to help teachers implement new ideas. She shares her knowledge and expertise with staff in a supportive way. "Over the past year, I have worked with Steph in her role as Autism Advisory Teacher for our school. She has supported us in areas such as: setting up an autism resource provision, general observations and recommendations to support individual pupils' needs and wider training for staff. "Steph has been a source of knowledge, expertise and compassion for many years in her time as our Autism Specialist Teacher. Steph explores the current offer for a child through meaningful observations and dialogues with staff.

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