Rising to the challange

Rising to the Challenge

A series of six workshops for families and carers who would like to gain greater confidence in living with autism.

Rising to the Challenge Rising to the Challenge is a series of six workshops for families and carers who would like to gain greater confidence in living with autism and feel better equipped to manage the difficulties they are experiencing. All participants will have the opportunity to share their experiences and take away ideas, strategies and resources as well as information about Autism West Midlands’ Information and Support services and local advice sources.

Who should attend?

The course is primarily aimed at parents and carers of 4-12 year olds with an autism diagnosis (including Asperger syndrome) with or without a learning disability. It may also be suitable for parents of young people up to 18 whose development may be behind for their chronological age.

Dates • • • • • •

Week 1: Monday 7th September Week 2: Monday 14th September Week 3: Monday 21st September Week 4: Monday 28th September Week 5: Monday 5th October Week 6: Monday 12th October

Where will the course take place?

Autism West Midlands Regent Court 15 George Road Edgbaston B15 1NU

Cost Associate Member: Parent: Professional: Child:

£ 80 £ 80 £100 £ 80

Course Contents Week 1: The Autism Spectrum Monday 7th September from 7.00pm to 9.00pm By the end of this session you’ll be able to: • Explore the world of autism • Understand individuality in children on the autism spectrum • Understand how autism is diagnosed

Week 2: The Sensory World of Autism Monday 14th September from 7.00pm to 9.00pm By the end of this session you’ll be able to: • Identify any sensory processing needs your child may have • Understand how children with autism use their senses • Explore ways to improve sensory experiences for your child

Week 3: Communication & Understanding your Child’s Behaviour Monday 21st September from 7.00pm to 9.00pm By the end of this session you’ll be able to: • Understand communication difficulties in autism • Identify reasons why children with autism behave as they do • Plan ways to developing better communication with your child

Week 4: Helping your Child Develop Social Skills Monday 28th September from 7.00pm to 9.00pm By the end of this session you’ll be able to: • Explore how children develop social skills • Understand social skill difficulties in autism • Discuss how to promote social skills with your child

Week 5: Managing Meltdowns Monday 5th October from 7.00pm to 9.00pm By the end of this session you’ll be able to: • Understand the role of anxiety in a child with autism • Explore coping strategies for dealing with autism related anxiety and anger outburts • Reflect on strategies to help your child regulate their emotions Week 6: Looking After Yourself Monday 12th October from 7.00pm to 9.00pm By the end of this session you’ll be able to: • Reflect on your child’s diagnosis • Recognise your own stress and anxiety • Identify sources of help and support

Booking: For more information and to book, please visit: http://www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk/training/course_detail/58 or call 0121 450 7582.

What previous attendees have said:

“I came with my daughter because her son (my grandson) is autistic.

My daughter felt very much on her own. Coming to this workshop has helped her realise she is not on her own – there are other parents going through what she is” “It was very helpful, informative, interesting – provided vast amounts of info & contact numbers for support.

Really enjoyed it and would highly recommend to others”

About Autism West Midlands There are more than half a million people in the UK living with autism, an invisible, misunderstood and lonely disability. 60,000 live in the West Midlands.

We are the leading charity in the West Midlands for people affected by autism. We exist to enable all people with autism and those who love and care for them to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives. Our passionate, expert staff and volunteers work across all age groups and abilities, providing direct support to people affected by autism.

Contact us Autism West Midlands Regent Court George Road Edgbaston Birmingham B15 1NU Email: hello@autismwestmidlands.org.uk Telephone: 0121 450 7582 Website: www.autismwestmidlands.org.uk

Find us on Facebook: Search “Autism West Midlands�

Follow us on Twitter: @autismwestmids Our vision is a world where all people on the autism spectrum have the specialist care and support they need to lead fulfilling and rewarding lives.

Registered Charity Number: 517077 Registered Company Number: 1953344 (England and Wales)