Autism & Social Communication: Building Mutual Understanding
- Dates: March 16, 2027
- Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
- Format and Platform: Virtual via Zoom
- Registration Fee:
- Individual: $10
- Team viewing/Group: $200
- Registration Deadline:
- Individual: 3/16/27
- Team viewing/Group: 3/9/27
- Topic Focus: Classroom level
- Intended Audience: General and Special Education Teachers and Administrators, Ancillary/Support Staff, School Counselors, Consultants, Families
- Lindsey Harr-Smith, M.A., CCC-SLP, START Project, Autism Education & Intervention Specialist
- Katie Oswald, Executive Director, Full Spectrum Agency for Autistic Adults
Communication extends beyond words to include body language, tone, and unwritten social expectations. This training explores social communication through a neurodiversity-affirming lens. Participants will deepen their understanding of differences between Autistic and non-Autistic communication styles and how these differences can contribute to misunderstandings in everyday interactions. Rather than framing Autistic communication as “incorrect” or “inappropriate,” the training emphasizes building mutual understanding, respect, and practical strategies for clearer, more effective communication across differences. Participants will explore the Double Empathy Problem, the impact of literal thinking and communication styles, and tools to support shared understanding, reduce miscommunication, and foster more inclusive and affirming interactions.
Individual viewing: For this training, individual viewing is recommended for a single individual attending the training, or for each member of a group of 20 people or less.
Team Viewing Option: For this training, team viewing is recommended for a group size of 21 or more participants, who will be facilitated by at least 1 team leader (preferably a coach within your local ISD).
Team Viewing Instructions:
- Identify and register 1 to 2 Team Leaders (preferably a coach within your district/ISD) who will be responsible for facilitating the virtual training experience.
- Team Leaders are responsible for the following:
- Organizing and coordinating the training in a physical viewing location.
- Communicating with START about the training and questions that arise.
- Collecting team attendance and reporting this attendance to START.
- Facilitating the team experience.
- Team Leaders are responsible for the following:
- After registering, START will send the Team Leaders a Facilitator Guide with information about facilitating a high-quality virtual training experience in a large group.
START is offering State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs), Social Work Credits, pending approval, and Certificates of Attendance. Participants must complete the Attendance Form provided at the training within 2 days of the training date to receive CEUs and/or a Certificate of Attendance.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be emailed to [email protected] at least 24 hours before training begins. We are unable to accept phone cancellations.
START only accepts credit cards for payment.
By registering for this training, you agree to receive email updates from START (articles, updates, new tools and resources, and training and events information) and acknowledge and consent to the recording of the session(s). The recording may capture audio, video, and any shared content during the meeting.