October is Autism Awareness Month in Canada
Dear ACT Community,
Autism Acceptance Month in Canada is a time to celebrate the diversity and unique strengths of the autistic community, while raising awareness about the challenges autistic people continue to face. It’s an opportunity to foster inclusion, advocate for meaningful change, and promote understanding of autism beyond awareness, focusing on acceptance and respect. By embracing neurodivergence, we can build a more inclusive society where autistic individuals are empowered to thrive, contribute, and be valued for their many strengths and who they are.
We’re excited to share an announcement that we hope will greatly impact the Autistic community. The long-awaited Federal National Autism Strategy has been announced.
This announcement acknowledges the need to include Autistic people and their families in Canadian society and address the significant challenges they face. However, the strategy falls short of tangible actions needed for Autistic people and their families to experience real, lasting change. Join ACT on calling on the government to translate the Strategy into meaningful action.
To learn more about the Strategy, check out these links:
- Autism Alliance of Canada’s Response to the National Autism Strategy
- National Autism Strategy Signals Progress, but Autistic People and Their Families Still Await Action on Key Promises
- Autism Alliance of Canada Welcomes the Long-Awaited Federal National Autism Strategy but Urgent Action Still Needed
I am meeting regularly with Jonathan Lai, Executive Director of the Autism Alliance of Canada as well as our autism partner organizations, to ensure strength in numbers. Together, with input from the community, we will determine the best way forward and will continue to provide updates as we have them.
Warm regards,
Michelle Schmidt Executive Director
Upcoming Events
Language Matters: Transforming Healthcare for Neurodivergent People
New! FREE Event
Friday, November 29, 2024
Web streaming live, 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm
Presented by Angie Ip, MHSc, MD, PhD;Mac Landerholm & Sarah McGowan, SLP
This workshop explores the impact of language around neurodivergence, neurodiversity, and disability in healthcare settings. Following a brief lecture, participants will put their new learning to work through reflections on lived/living experiences shared by neurodivergent individuals and their families and interactive learning activities. Participants will gain tools to create a more inclusive environment for their teams and the clients and families they work with.
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Free registration until Thursday, November 28, 2024.
Managing Distressed Behavior for Parents, Families and Caregivers
Saturday, October 19, 2024
KPU – Langley Campus, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Presented by Allison Balfour, Sharon Power,& Heather Lavigne
This in-person course is designed to guide participants at beginner to advanced levels and emphasizes practical, non-confrontational approaches to prevent and support individuals at risk of or experiencing significant distress and exhibiting challenging behaviors.
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Limited Spots available. Last day to register is Wednesday, October 16, 2024.
Going to Bed Without Tears: Assessment and Treatment of Sleep-Related Problems
Friday, November 1, 2024
Web Streaming Live, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Presented by Dr. Mahshid Ghaemmaghami, BCBA-D
Attendance meets the requirements for 4 BCBA CEUs (General).Join Dr. Mahshid Ghaemmaghami for a four-hour webinar on utilizing a bio-behavioral approach to assess, treat and prevent sleep-related challenges.
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Last day to register is Monday, October 28, 2024.Based on interest, a design session will be offered as a follow-up.
An Early Intervention Model for Children with Autism: JASPER core domains, evidence, and implementation
February 6 & 7, 2025
Vancouver, B.C. & Web streaming live
Presented by Connie Kasari, PhD & Stephanie Shire, PhD
Facilitated by Kate Chase, PhD, SLP, BCBA
Join Dr. Connie Kasari and Dr. Stephanie Shire for a two-day event presenting JASPER, an early intervention model for children with autism. Learn about new research approaches to personalizing interventions and supporting children’s development.
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Register by November 3 to secure the early bird discount!
Empowering Neurodivergence: Affirming Approaches to Promote Wellbeing and Belonging for Autistic Students
February 27 & 28, 2025
Vancouver, B.C. & Web streaming live
Presented by Heather Brown, PhD; Sandy Thompson-Hodgetts, PhD & Nat Raedwulf Pogue
Research practitioners, including those with Autistic living experience, will demonstrate the importance of learning and applying neuro-affirming educational practices. Gain insights and practical skills in creating inclusive environments that support neurodivergent students and become a stronger ally and advocate for the Autistic Community.
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Register by November 3 to secure the early bird discount!
ADOS-2 Clinical Training
March 5 to 7, 2025 Vancouver, B.C.
Instructed by Dr. Adam McCrimmon, PhD, RPsyc; ASERT
Join Dr. Adam McCrimmon (PhD, RPsych) for a three-day, in-person Clinical Training on the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2). The ADOS-2 is used for assessing and diagnosing ASD across ages, developmental levels, and language skills.
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Last day to register is February 28, 2025. Limited Spots available. The ADOS-2 is a protected measure; only registered professionals (or students working towards registration) can attend this training.
ACT’s Statement of Reconciliation
ACT – Autism Community Training recognizes and acknowledges the profound significance of the Calls to Action made by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. We are committed to fostering understanding, respect, and partnership with Indigenous communities across Canada.
View the statement
October is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Awareness Month
Autistic adults and children use a variety of communication methods, including speech, sign language and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods.
In the past, AAC was often seen as a “last resort” for children who didn’t develop speech. But Donaldson, Endever, & McCoy (2021) found that many Autistic adults emphasize the importance of embracing all forms of communication equally. They believe every child should have the chance to develop rich, full communication without delays or stigma.
Join us in celebrating Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Awareness Month! To learn more about AAC, watch the AAC section of our video Visual Support Strategies with Dr. Brenda Fossett.
BC-ABA Conference, March 7 & 8, 2025
Call for Paper SubmissionsBC-ABA is now accepting paper submissions for their 2025 Conference. The deadline to submit is November 15, 2024.