Understanding the Autism Spectrum (in-person)

Description

This professional development session provides early childhood educators with foundational knowledge about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and practical strategies to create inclusive, supportive learning environments for all children. Through interactive discussion, video examples, and reflection activities, participants will deepen their understanding of how children on the autism spectrum experience the world and how educators can promote communication, social connection, and learning in developmentally appropriate ways.

The session highlights early signs of autism, evidence-based teaching practices, and strategies for partnering with families to ensure consistent, compassionate support both in the classroom and home environment.

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

• Identify key characteristics and early signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder in young children.
• Describe how autism may affect communication, sensory processing, and social-emotional development.
• Apply inclusive teaching strategies and environmental adaptations that support engagement and learning for children with ASD.
• Collaborate effectively with families and specialists to create individualized support plans that promote positive outcomes.

Who Should Participate?

This training is applicable to everyone.

Presenter

Dr. Deminika Spears, EdD

Dr. Spears is a consultant lending over 20 years of experience in early childhood, K-12, and post-secondary education, partnering with non-profit, for-profit, and school district programs. Her expertise includes administration, race equity, cultural humility, vicarious trauma, compassionate fatigue, trauma-informed practices, financial literacy/education, and professional adult learning support. Dr. Spears is passionate about disrupting systemic inequities and creating an effective workforce supporting children and families, especially marginalized and underserved communities. Dr. Spears consults with state and local organizations to provide programmatic assessments, reflective practice and mentorship, coaching, and training on early childhood quality improvement measures, using a race equity/trauma-informed lens.

Dr. Spears holds both Doctorate (EdD) and Master’s degree (MA) in Educational Leadership from Mills College; a Master’s degree (MS) in Healthcare Administration from Grand Canyon University; and a Bachelor’s degree (BS) in Biology from Mills College.

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Funding for this training provided by the San Francisco Department of Early Childhood.

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Host or Publisher San Francisco Family Support Network (SFFSN)