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Autism Awareness -- A Cigna Education Series

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Autism Awareness — A Cigna Education Series

Cigna offers a free Education Awareness series designed to provide parents, family members and caregivers with information on the physical, mental, and emotional issues common in children who are experiencing an Autism Spectrum Disorder. The information in this series is designed to educate parents on strategies for dealing with the day to day challenges they may experience.

Tips & Tricks for Holiday Success

The focus of this presentation is on empowering families to prepare their children with special needs for the holidays. Preparation and flexibility through the holidays can lead to more fun for the entire family. This presentation will teach you how to make a simple and effective holiday social story for your child. Learn how you and your family can have an enjoyable and less stressful holiday season!

Date & Time: October 11, 2012 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Cindy Mccullough, BCBA, MA, owner of Get Social! Therapy in Roseville, CA and Sue Samuel, BcABA
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Behavioral Parent Training

The presentation will cover an introduction, including history and research related to behavioral parent training. Next the rationale, objectives and applications of parent training will be reviewed. We will highlight the aspect of generalization and the importance of generalization, so that all behavioral skills are maintained over time. Finally, the four steps of assessing behaviors, determining functions of behaviors that then guides the development of interventions, and a list of possible interventions will be discussed with examples to provide clarification.

Date & Time: September 13, 2012 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Cara Stearns Entz, MFT, BCBA, President of Inizio Interventions
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Preventing and Responding to Challenging Behaviors in the Home

The goal of this presentation is to explain to families why problem behaviors occur, how they are maintained, and ways they can prevent and respond to them. We'll be describing in detail each principle and giving examples.

Date & Time: August 9th, 2012 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Michael Boardman, MA, BCBA, ABA Supervisor, YAI, New York League for Early Learning and Lifestart Program
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



How Anxiety Affects the Lives of Individuals with Autism and Treatments that Help

Gain a greater understanding of the patterns of anxiety that impact the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families and caregivers. Learn about therapies, strategies and the role of medication.

Date & Time: July 12th, 2012 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Charles Cartwright, M.D., Director, YAI Autism Center & Chief, Premier HealthCare Autism Institute
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Fostering Friendships Between Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder and Typically Developing Peers

For young children with autism spectrum disorders, building friendships with peers can be a challenge. Learn how to enhance social interaction, imaginative play and friendships between children on the spectrum and their typically developing peer. We will explore how these friendships can greatly enhance communication and social competence. This presentation will focus on how to encourage and further these bonds, by providing techniques and evidence-based strategies that encourage a play environment of acceptance, empathy and understanding.

Date & Time: June 14th, 2012 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Jill Krata, Ph.D Associate Chief, Premier HealthCare Autism Research and Treatment Institute and Manager of Clinical Services , YAI Autism Center
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Community Safety Issues for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Common Concerns and Strategies for Building Independence

Concerns about safety in public settings keep many families of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) from enjoying activities in their community. This presentation describes common dangers and strategies for promoting safety so that families can lead more peaceful and fuller lives in their communities.

Date & Time: May 10th, 2012 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Linda LeBlanc, BCBA-D, Director of Research and Clinical Services, Trumpet Behavioral Health
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Facilitating Independence in Individuals on the Autism Spectrum

This presentation will provide you with a greater understanding of independence. We'll discuss the importance of independence as it relates to quality of life, and practical ways that you can encourage greater independence in individuals of different ages and functioning levels across various life skills.

Date & Time: April 12, 2012 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Sharyn Kerr, PhD., BCBA-D, Clinical Director, ACES
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Social Skills

Participants will develop an understanding of learning challenges that may impact social interactions with peers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Date & Time: March 8, 2012 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Megan Bailey, MSEd, Clinical Interventionist, Southwest Autism Research and Research Center (SARRC)
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Moms, Dads, Siblings and Grandparents: Autism Spectrum Disorders & How They Impact the Whole Family

This presentation will focus on the impact a child with autism has on all family members. We'll explore the results of a national survey that has looked at the roles parents, siblings and grandparents play. We'll also address challenging situations that can affect family members physically and emotionally.

Date & Time: February 9, 2012 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Connie Andrews, PhD. Research Coordinator/Community Scientific Liaison, Kennedy Krieger Institute
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Autism and other Mental Health Conditions

This seminar will cover the most common mental health conditions that are often associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders. We will discuss the process of differentiating between Autism and these other disorders, and how to identify targets for intervention.

Date & Time: January 12, 2012 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Judith Miller, PhD Clinical Training Director at Center for Autism Research in Philadephia, PA
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Strengthening and Improving Marriages and Couples' Relationships While Raising Children on the Spectrum

This presentation is based on Dr. Marshak's book: Married with special needs children [a couples' guide to keeping connected]. She will present key strategies that can be used to protect and improve couples' relationship amidst the increased stress of parenting.

Date & Time: December 8, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Laura E. Marshak Ph.D., Professor, Department of Counseling, Indiana University of PA
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Elopement and Wandering in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

This seminar will present data from the recently launched national survey on elopement and wandering in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). How common is it? How old are children when they elope the most? What are families doing to prevent it? We'll discuss the urgent problem of elopement or "wandering" in ASD's and share how researchers have been able to collect information from families quickly to begin to address this issue.

Date & Time: November 10, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Dr. Law, Dr. Anderson & Dr. Hagopian
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Classroom Programming for Students with Autism

This seminar will focus on supporting your child's classroom programming by learning tips for making the most of Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings. Learn about your rights and responsibilities and how to identify your priorities for your child. You'll also learn what makes an IEP goal meaningful.

Date & Time: October 13th, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Danielle Liso, PhD, BCBA, Director, EQPT Parent Training Program
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Teaching Children How to Think (what does it mean)?

This presentation will cover what to teach your child and how to teach your child to understand and use critical thinking language such as "all/some/none", "Good time/not a good time", "and/or" and other relations that allow your child to "think things through on his or her own".

Date & Time: September 8th, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Richard E. Laitinen, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Executive Director Therapeutic Learning Consultants
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Evidence-Based Practice: What Does It Mean?

Successful interventions should be based on strategies and practices which have been scientifically proven to improve outcomes for children with autism. Learn about evidence-based practice and what it means for children on the spectrum.

Date & Time: August 11th, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Jill Krata, Ph.D., Associate Chief, Premier HealthCare Autism Research and Treatment Institute and Manager of Clinical Services, YAI Autism Center
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Developing Early Communication Skills in Toddlers and Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Limited Language

Young children with ASD and very limited language often present with a common set of communication delays related to nonverbal skills, play and social skills. Strategies for intervention and parent techniques will be discussed in order to provide a framework for targeting communication across settings, to promote development and generalization.

Date & Time: July 14th, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Moira Lewis, M.S., CCC-SLP, Speech & Language Pathologist, YAI Autism Center
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



A Visual Tour of the Social Brain in Autism

There has been a great amount research in brain imaging people with autism. This work has mapped out the parts of the brain that work differently from those with no history of developmental disabilities. Learn about these differences which affect social functioning in people on the spectrum.

Date & Time: June 16th, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Charles Cartwright, M.D., Chief, Premier HealthCare Autism Research and Treatment Institute and Director, YAI Autism Center
Toll/Int'l: 719.457.2626    US/CAN Toll Free: 866.431.5314    Passcode: 1150266



Sleep Disorders in Children with Autism

This presentation will address some of the sleep challenges that children on the autism spectrum often have. We'll provide information about how to prevent and address these challenges. Additionally, information about data collection for sleep will be provided.

Date & Time: April 14th, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Danielle R. Liso, PhD, BCBA-D, Coordinator of Severe Disabilities and Autism Programs, Johns Hopkins University
Telephone: 1.800.214.0745    Passcode: 121391



The transition from school to work: Moving from Adolescence to Adulthood

The key to success after high school is finding a fit. Some jobs and work environments will be more suitable than others. I will discuss how to find a 'best fit' situation when deciding on careers.

Date & Time: March 10th, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Yvona Fast, Communications Director, GRASP
Telephone: 1.800.214.0745    Passcode: 121391



Neurologic Music Therapy with Children on the Autism Spectrum

This seminar will focus on the specific needs of individuals with pervasive developmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorders. Listen and learn how those needs can be addressed through neurologic music therapy.

Date & Time: February 10th, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Melissa J. Wenszell, MT-BC, NMT Fellow, NICU-MT Director of Musical Therapy MacPhail Center for Music
Telephone: 1.800.214.0745    Passcode: 121391



Social Skills Education

Listen and learn the importance of social skills education and groups for children on the Autism Spectrum. We'll touch on Michelle Garcia Winner's work on social thinking, the importance of play and practice, and helpful ways to incorporate social skills at home.

Date & Time: January 13th, 2011 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Lauren Presti, LCPC and Nikki Steward, BCBA
Telephone: 1.800.214.0745    Passcode: 121391



More Than a Sum of Diagnostic Differences: A Positive Perspective on Autism and Asperger's Syndrome

Find new ways to understand, appreciate, and interact effectively with people with these diagnoses.

Date & Time: December 9th, 2010 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Laurel Falvo, CFLE, Executive Director The Gray Center for Social Learning and Understanding
Telephone: 1.800.214.0745    Passcode: 121391



The role of adaptive behavior in ASD: Implications for functional outcome

An increasing number of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders are being successfully mainstreamed within educational programs, graduating from high school, and even attending college. However, the majority of these individuals fail to achieve levels of independence in adulthood due to their inability to self-manage and navigate the demands of life when there are no external supports. This seminar will define and discuss adaptive behavior profiles in ASD, the critical need for adaptive behavior instruction in intervention, and the role adaptive behavior plays in functional outcome for individuals with the disorder.

Date & Time: November 11, 2010 1:00 pm – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Celine A. Saulnier, Ph.D., Clinical Director Autism Program, Yale Child Study Center
Telephone: 1.800.214.0745    Passcode: 121391



Tips for School Success

As the incidence of students on the autism spectrum continues to increase and the diversity of the students expand, schools struggle to find methods to address the wide range of challenges and talents. This presentation will provide helpful tips for those working on behalf of students in school settings.

Date & Time: October 14, 2010 1:00 pm – 2:00 p.m. EST
Presenter: Amy Gaffney, Indiana Resource Center for Autism
Telephone: 1.800.214.0745    Passcode: 121391



Educating First Responders About Autism and What Families Can Do To Prepare for Emergency Situations

Issues regarding personal safety and risk are high on the list of concerns expressed by the autism community. Over the lifetime of an individual with autism, it is very likely that he or she will encounter the police or other first responders. This seminar focuses on what you can do to be prepared for these situations.

Date & Time: September 9th, 2010 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm EST
Presenter: Marianne Toedtman, RN, MN, Assistant National Director of Outreach & Resources, Autism Speaks
Telephone: 1.800.214.0745    Passcode: 121391



More Autism information and resources

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