The Autism Society of North Carolina’s Annual Conference, Autism Grows Up, will take place February 8-9 in Charlotte. This year, the conference will focus on planning for and proactively addressing the challenges of the inevitable and important transitions to adolescence and adulthood.
The event will be held at the Hilton University Place in Charlotte. Continuing Education Units will be awarded to professionals, and discounts are offered to groups of six or more.
Parents of children on the autism spectrum whose dream is for their child to be able to pursue higher education, obtain gainful employment, or live independently will learn about what they can do to reach these goals. Professionals will learn specific strategies to address transition issues and better support the growing children they serve.
On February 8, Dr. Peter Gerhardt, Chairman of the Scientific Council for the Organization for Autism Research, will present Bridges to Adulthood: Planning for Lives of Competence and Inclusion. This presentation will provide an overview of the issues related to adulthood on the autism spectrum including components of effective intervention, challenges to implementation, and potential solutions.
On February 9, participants will learn from teaching and behavioral experts on best practices, gain insights about raising girls on the spectrum, and share the lighter side of autism through humor.
The conference, which is the largest autism gathering in the state, is a unique opportunity to share with and learn from other families affected by autism. Participants will also have the opportunity to connect with professionals in the autism field and meet with a variety of businesses that support the autism community.
Early bird registration closes on January 18. For more information or to register, please visit www.autismsociety-nc.org or call 800-442-2762.
Background
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. Recent studies estimate that up to 1 of every 70 children born in North Carolina will be affected by ASD.
For over forty years, the Autism Society of North Carolina has led efforts to address areas of need and expand services for the autism community in North Carolina. ASNC works to directly improve the lives of individuals affected by autism, by providing advocacy, education, and services.
Additional information is available by calling 1-800-442-2762 or by visiting www.autismsociety-nc.org.