Understanding Autism & Early Development Workshop: Autism 101

Presented by Mango Tree Center in collaboration with Project LAUNCH, Children With Special Health Needs Branch, Hawaiʻi Department of Health

Want to better understand autism and early development? Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, healthcare professional, or other provider working with young children and families, Autism 101 offers a welcoming and accessible introduction to autism.

Led by Maya Matheis, PhD, Founder and Director of Mango Tree Center, this workshop will explore what current research tells us about autism, including biological and developmental perspectives, early signs and developmental differences, and common myths and misconceptions. We’ll also talk about how to make sense of conflicting information and distinguish evidence-based information from misinformation.

Designed for both families and professionals, the workshop provides a shared foundation for better understanding autism and supporting young children. Whether you have questions about your own child’s development or work with children and families in a professional or community setting, you’ll leave with greater knowledge, practical information, and resources you can use.

Community partners are encouraged to bring pamphlets, flyers, and other helpful resources to share with workshop attendees.

No prior knowledge of autism is needed. Parents, caregivers, professionals, and community members are all welcome.

• Accessible, research-informed information about autism and early development
• A companion workbook for each attendee to use during the workshop and take home
• Dedicated time for questions and discussion
• Community resource tables with information about local programs, services, and supports for children and families

Maya Matheis, PhD is a licensed clinical psychologist and the Founder and Director of Mango Tree Center, based in Honolulu. She specializes in autism and neurodevelopmental conditions, with expertise in early identification, assessment, family engagement, and supporting children and their families.

Dr. Maya earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from Louisiana State University and completed her clinical internship and postdoctoral fellowship at the UC Davis MIND Institute, where she also completed an NIH-funded Autism Research Training Program fellowship. She has authored more than 20 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters on autism and has presented her research nationally and internationally.

Her approach emphasizes making current autism research understandable, practical, and relevant to families and the professionals who support them.

Autism 101 is the first workshop in the Understanding Autism & Early Development, a four-part workshop series designed for families and professionals who support young children.

Each workshop builds knowledge and practical skills around autism and early development, with future sessions exploring behavior, regulation and connection; diagnosis, communication and service pathways; and advocacy and effective communication.

Attend one workshop or join us for the full series! Part 2, Behavior, Regulation & Connection, will be on Friday, November 6th.