Understanding & Supporting Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

It all begins with understanding.

Join AAROC for a welcoming, practical workshop designed to help families and community members better understand autism and feel more confident supporting the autistic people in their lives.

We’ll talk about what autism is, the many different ways it can affect how a person communicates, learns, interacts, and experiences the world, and practical ways we can provide support at home and in the community.

Participants will have an opportunity to explore visual supports and sensory-friendly materials, learn about helpful resources available to Arkansas families, and ask questions in a comfortable, supportive setting.

Families are at the heart of this workshop, but everyone who wants to better understand and support autistic individuals is welcome—including educators, caregivers, friends, neighbors, faith communities, and other community members.

Come learn with us as we work together to build greater understanding, belonging, and stronger communities.

Lunch will be provided.

About the trainer:

Karan B. Burnette, M.A., CCC-SLP

Ms. Burnette has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. She has 40 years’ experience working with children with disabilities in educational and residential settings, specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and behavioral intervention. Ms. Burnette currently serves on the Arkansas Legislative Task Force for Autism and the Governor’s Developmental Disabilities Council. She has extensive experience as a consultant and conference speaker and is employed as the Executive Director of UA Partners, Arkansas’ University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and Service (UCEDD), an outreach program of the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville.