informational classes
Join Us!
Acceptional Minds LLC offers a wide variety of content based classes to support families of children with special needs. While classes are geared for families navigating autism, all individuals seeking more information and support for other disabilities are welcome.
Classes are $40.00 per person and begin April, 2018. There is no minimum amount of classes needed to attend. Preregistration and payment are required before attending classes. There are no refunds, but classes can be switched for a later date in the event of an unexpected schedule conflict.
Resources will be available for purchase on site. This includes, but is not limited to books, fidgets, and sensory items.
Class List
Explaining Autism and How It Affects Families + Quick Tips for Surviving
Autism and How It Affects Families explores the effects of Autism on an individual across environments and how Autism affects the family unit. Resources and quick tips for adjusting to a diagnosis are discussed. Resources will be discussed for independent research.
Sensory for Individuals on the Spectrum
Sensory for Individuals on the Spectrum explains sensory, sensory processing, and how sensory input can help an individual with Autism. The role of an Occupational Therapist (OT) will also be discussed. Learners will have examples and explanations of commonly used sensory tools, independent techniques, and resources for independent research.
Understanding Speech and Language Needs
Understanding Speech and Language Needs will explain the difference between receptive language and expressive language. Learners will be taught different language techniques to use at home, school, and in the community for helping improve verbal skills for an individual with Autism, as well as, explanations on PECS and various assistive speaking devices. The role of a Speech Pathologist will also be discussed. Resources will be discussed for independent research.
Modifying Problematic Behavior I
Modifying Problematic Behavior I will explore the relationship of problem behavior with language deficits, sensory issues, emotional self-regulation, and rigid thinking patterns. Learners will discover various techniques to address areas that provoke problematic behavior. Learners will also be shown how to proactively circumvent behaviors, as well as, techniques on how to handle meltdowns. Resources will be discussed for independent research.
Modifying Problematic Behavior II
Modifying Problematic Behavior II is an extension of Problematic Behavior I. Learners will be given more in-depth explanations of techniques and an opportunity for problem solving using class examples. Questions from self-discovery will be addressed. It is required that Modifying Problematic Behavior I be taken first.
Understanding the IEP and How to Advocate for Your Child
Understanding the IEP and How to Advocate for Your Child discusses what an IEP is, what your rights and responsibilities are, and how to advocate for your child. Learners will also explore how to compromise effectively, communicate with staff efficiently, and promote teamwork within the child’s support network. Resources will also be discussed for independent research.
Social Skills – Individual and Group
Social Skills – Individual and Group explores the different programs to address target goals in social skills directly related to language deficits, executive brain function, sensory issues, and emotional self-regulation. Learners will also learn the basic techniques and goals of social skills groups, as well as, techniques for individual work. Resources will be discussed for independent research.
Autism and Peers/Siblings
Autism and Peers/Siblings explains how to teach peers and siblings what Autism is and how they can be an active part of any person’s life, no matter how different they seem to be. Learners will be able to explain how a person with Autism thinks, feels, and expresses themselves while relating back to the other children. Through examples, learners will be given techniques to explain to children how to interact with a specific child, how to be Peer Mentors, and how to address language and sensory issues. Resources will be discussed for independent research.
Peers and Siblings
Peers and Siblings is a presentation for siblings and/or peers to explain Autism and how they can be peer mentors and support people for a child with Autism. Presentation explains sensory issues, how a person with Autism may think, feel, or express him/herself differently while relating this back to the other children themselves. Peers will learn how to interact, support, and accept a child with Autism.
Adults Diagnosed with Autism – What This Means for You
Adults Diagnosed with Autism – What This Means for You discusses the unique difficulties for adults diagnosed on the spectrum. Learners will explore flexible thinking, perception checking, perspective taking, self – calming techniques, nonverbal communication, and sensory issues across environments. Resources will be discussed for independent research.
Dealing with Autism – For Professionals
Dealing with Autism – For Professionals will give an overview of what Autism is, what it looks like, and how to communicate effectively and efficiently when dealing with members of the community on the Autism spectrum. Concepts covered will be identifying Autism Spectrum behavior, effective communication, foreshadowing, identifying triggers, dealing with unknown triggers, coaching through desired and/or necessary outcomes, and tricks to maintaining patience. Resources will be discussed for independent research.
Additional Classes/Presentations:
(With enough requests, additional classes can be scheduled on or offsite. Prices may vary.)
All classes can be purchased for off-site (at your home or work), schedule permitting.
Childcare is not guaranteed for off-site classes. Inquire when scheduling.