Affecting over half a million Brits, autism is a lifelong development disability characterised by difficulties interacting and communicating with other people. With no known cure and a number of negative stereotypes and myths surrounding the condition, understanding how to deal with autistic children is a valuable skill for anyone considering a career in teaching or caring, or for those who know autistic children personally. This Autism Awareness Training Course provides you with all the information you need to be able to handle children with autism.

You are first given an introduction to autism, which teaches you about common impairments and myths, the possible genetic, environmental, psychological and neurological causes and the relation between autism and gender and age. You then look at a range of autistic behaviours such as social communication, social interaction, social imagination, sensory sensitivity, dogged routines, learning difficulties and challenging behaviour.

After that, you move onto diagnosing and managing autism, focusing on why a diagnosis can be helpful, how one can be achieved and the strategies you can pick up to help autistic children. These include intensive interaction, Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) therapy, a positive diet, autism-friendly places and managing change. Finally, you will continue to learn about the ways in which you can help autistic children, covering communication, visual supports, relationships, promoting positive behaviour, routines and further resources. Upon completion, you will feel more confident around autistic children and will be able to help them grow and progress.