ACCC offering closer look at autism supports

By Allison O’Toole

CloserLook, Mar. 9-10 at Anne Carlsen Center for Children, will explore the technology and educational support tools available to assist students with autism.

The conference features breakout sessions and hands-on workshops.

CloserLook is geared for education professionals, therapists, families, and caregivers who want to explore tools available to support children and young adults within the autism spectrum.

Main features of CloserLook are a hands-on Make-n-Take session, humorous keynote speaker, and breakout sessions.
CloserLook is $65 for those registering before Feb. 15 and $75 after the Feb. 15 deadline. There is an additional $25 materials fee for those attending the Make-n-Take sessionwhich kicks off conference Mar. 9 at Quality Inn, Jamestown.
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In a relaxed atmosphere with hors d'oeuvres and conversation, the Make-n-Take is a chance to create a sensory tool kit to aid in addressing communication and leisure skills while meeting sensory needs. Individual tool kits will have visual, auditory, and tactile items.

Keynote speaker T. Marni Vos is a motivational speaker, former high school teacher, and comedian whose hope is to motivate, inspire, and entertain with ideas to bring "Humor in Everyday Life."

There are 11 breakout sessions available which range from using technology and music therapy for students to collaborating with parents and professionals. Three hours of breakout sessions will be held with four sessions to choose from each hour.

Sessions include:
• Communication Device Tour
• Why Music Therapy?
• VIP's (Very Important Partners) Collaborating with Parents and Professionals
• Intellitools Fiesta
• Software Solutions for Struggling Students
• Using Visual Supports to Enhance Communication
• Transition Tips and Other Stuff to Worry…. Think About
• Technology Spotlight
• Memory Tools for Independent Living
• Create Meaningful Movement
• Supports for Successful Learning

The presenters involved in the seminar include experienced Anne Carlsen Center for Children staff members as well as a speaker from AugComm Solutions and a certified music therapist.

For more information about CloserLook and detailed descriptions of each breakout session or to register for CloserLook, access the Center's website at www.annecenter.org or call Doris Cooper at 1-800-568-5175.