3rd Annual Autism Educational Summit Caregiver and Community Day
About this Event
Join us for a day of learning, connection, and empowerment at the 3rd Annual Autism Educational Summit – Caregiver and Community Day. This full-day event brings together families, caregivers, and community members for meaningful conversations and practical tools centered around the support of autistic children and adolescents.
Hear from knowledgeable speakers and community advocates who will share real-world strategies and the latest insights in autism care, presented in an accessible, inclusive format designed with caregivers and families in mind.
This Summit champions the power of active partnership, uniting individuals with autism, their families, and their healthcare, educational, and community-based teams around a shared commitment to better outcomes. Discussions will span the full continuum of support, including the benefits of early diagnosis, genetic insights, Medic*tion management, sensory and emotional regulation strategies, educational advocacy, caregiver burnout, and guiding adolescents through the critical transition into adulthood.
Through engaging presentations and panel discussions, attendees will leave with:
- A deeper understanding and acceptance of autism
- Awareness of available resources and community support
- Practical tools to strengthen advocacy and caregiving for children with autism and their families
The Autism Educational Summit underscores the importance of active partnerships among autistic individuals, their families, and their healthcare, educational, and community-based teams. This event reflects Phoenix Children's ongoing commitment to providing the best healthcare, healing, and hope for children and the families we serve.
The 3rd Annual Autism Educational Summit – Caregiver and Community Day will be offered in-person only.
Registration Information
This event is open to all – parents, caregivers, educators, and community members who support and celebrate individuals with autism.
$10.00 – In-Person
We want everyone to feel welcome and supported. Scholarships and financial assistance are available – simply email us at to apply.
Please Note: Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Your registration fee helps support this program. For those attending in person, it also includes a light breakfast, lunch, snacks, and refreshments throughout the day. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Barrow at Phoenix Children’s Autism Program Fund #1521, supporting services and resources for families in our community.
Payment is due at the time of registration.
Agenda
🕑: 08:00 AM
Registration and Exhibit Space Opens
🕑: 09:00 AM
Welcome & Introductions
Host: Dannah G. Raz, MD, MPH
🕑: 09:05 AM - 10:05 AM
Keynote Presentation: A Different Way of Thinking
Host: Cody Clark
🕑: 10:05 AM - 10:45 AM
Diagnosing Autism: Why It Matters
Host: Marla Martin, PsyD
Info: This talk will discuss the benefits of a diagnosis (including later in life), diagnostic disparities (including gender differences), and stigma
🕑: 10:45 AM
Break
🕑: 11:00 AM - 11:40 AM
Advocating for Autistic Youth: Navigating Schools with Confidence
Host: Nicholas A. Tanner, PhD
🕑: 11:40 AM - 12:20 PM
Transition: Advocacy for Autistic Adolescents Entering Adulthood
Host: Veenod L. Chulani, MD
🕑: 12:20 PM
Lunch
🕑: 01:00 PM - 01:40 PM
Panel Discussion
🕑: 01:40 PM
Break
🕑: 01:55 PM - 02:35 PM
An Occupational Therapy Approach: Sensory & Emotional Regulation
Host: Sarah Cunningham, OT
🕑: 02:35 PM - 03:15 PM
Medic*tion Mgmt of Aggression and Irritability in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Host: Todd P. Levine, MD
Info: Medic*tion Management of Aggression and Irritability in Autism Spectrum Disorder
🕑: 03:15 PM - 03:55 PM
Beyond Survival: Building Resilience and Self-Care as an Autism Caregiver
Host: Meghan J. Kanya, PhD
🕑: 03:55 PM
Closing Remarks
🕑: 04:00 PM
Adjourn
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 5.00 to USD 10.00
