We are so proud and excited to be part of this important step to welcome all our visitors! Thanks to Traverse City Tourism for providing this opportunity to us.
IT'S OFFICIAL! ?? We have become the first destination in Michigan to be a Certified Autism Destination through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES)!
Programmes Lead for the Autism Education Trust (AET). Passionate about empowering AET Partners to deliver DfE supported, CPD certified, co-produced AET good autism practice programmes to effect culture change.
The highlight of another great week, how lucky am I! Our termly Autism Education Trust (AET) South West virtual regional network meeting took place this week.?The leads of our AET Partnership organisations met together virtually to share successes, discuss challenges and problem solve together. I love these meetings!?They are such productive meetings with likeminded partners, working in a supportive and collegial atmosphere. We talked about a number of topics where we shared experiences, talked through approaches and brain stormed ideas. Amongst the many topics on the agenda, Sarah, Rebecca Tranter and Paul Lamanna shared their experiences of the updated AET Progression Framework, which you can now find in the AET Shop or access via training from your local area AET Partner. Fiona Riddle talked about the AET Work-Based CPD Programme which dovetails with the AET Professional Development Programme delivered by our national AET Partner network. I gained so much from the meeting, thank you for coming along to all who were able to attend. Our AET Partners deliver the AET Professional Development Programme in their own local area to support the development of inclusive good autism practice across the education community. Use the link below to learn about the AET Professional Development Programme and find the contact details for your local AET Partner. Why not get in touch with them and discuss what is happening in your local area and how they can help you develop inclusive good autism practice in your setting? #autism #education #autismeducation #goodautismpractice #differencenotdeficit #aet
?? Creating Safe Spaces at Autism Camp Australia ?? At Autism Camp Australia, safety and comfort are our top priorities. We understand that a supportive environment is essential for Autistic young people to thrive and fully engage in their experiences. Here’s how we create safe and nurturing spaces for every AYP: ??? Sensory-Friendly Environments: Our camps are designed with sensory sensitivities in mind. We offer calming areas equipped with soft lighting, comfortable seating, and calming tools such as weighted blankets and fidget toys. These spaces provide a retreat for campers who may feel overwhelmed, allowing them to recharge and feel secure. ?? Structured Routines: We implement structured daily routines that provide predictability, helping campers feel more at ease. By outlining daily schedules and activities, we ensure that each AYP knows what to expect, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of stability. ???? Trained and Supportive Staff: Our dedicated team includes trained professionals who understand the diverse needs of Autistic Young People. They are skilled in recognising signs of distress and providing immediate support. Their compassionate approach ensures that every camper feels understood and valued throughout their time at camp. ?? Open Communication: We prioritise open communication with families to better understand each AYP's unique needs and preferences. Before camp, we encourage parents to share insights about their AYP’s comfort levels and sensory requirements, allowing us to tailor the camp experience to fit each camper perfectly. ?? Ready for a safe and fun adventure? Join us for an enriching camp experience where safety, support, and enjoyment go hand in hand. We’re committed to creating an environment where every AYP can explore, learn, and make lasting memories with confidence. ?? https://lnkd.in/gBBWSZ5F #SafeSpaces #AutismCampAustralia #SensorySupport #InclusiveEnvironment #SupportiveCommunity #AdventureAwaits
?? Understanding Sensory Overload ?? Sensory overload can be an overwhelming experience for many Autistic individuals, affecting their ability to engage and enjoy activities. At Autism Camp Australia, we recognise the importance of creating an environment that minimises these challenges, ensuring that every camper feels safe, supported, and included. ?? What We Do to Support Sensory Needs: Calming Spaces: We provide designated calming areas where campers can retreat when they feel overwhelmed. These spaces are designed with soft lighting, soothing sounds, and comforting textures to help kids recharge and regain their composure. Each calming corner is equipped with tools like weighted blankets, fidget toys, and noise-canceling headphones to cater to different sensory preferences. Sensory-Friendly Activities: Our camp activities are carefully curated to promote engagement without overstimulation. From nature walks that allow for quiet exploration to art projects that encourage creativity at one’s own pace, we offer a variety of options that cater to different sensory needs. Each activity is adaptable, allowing facilitators to modify them based on individual preferences and comfort levels. Trained Staff: Our team is specially trained to understand sensory sensitivities and recognise signs of overload. They are equipped with strategies to help campers navigate overwhelming situations, providing immediate support when needed. Their expertise ensures that every child feels understood and cared for. Parental Involvement: We believe that communication with families is key. Before camp begins, we gather insights from parents about their child's specific sensory needs and preferences. This collaborative approach helps us tailor the camp experience to each child’s unique requirements, fostering a sense of security and belonging. ? Comfort is key at our camps. We are dedicated to creating a supportive atmosphere where every Autistic individual can thrive, explore, and enjoy their time with us. Join us: https://lnkd.in/gGYPEkzq #SensorySupport #AutismAcceptance #AutismCampAustralia #InclusionMatters #EmpowerAutisticVoices
Last November, we unveiled ambitious plans to empower even more educational professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to better support the growing number of autistic children and young people in mainstream education.? We launched an online, flexible, video-based learning programme called the AET Work-Based CPD Programme, which enables schools and trusts to develop autism awareness and good autism practice via a nominated member of their own staff. The benefits of the AET Work-Based CPD Programme are: ?Flexible and adaptable to the needs and size of any school or trust. ?Sessions are available online, on-demand and ‘bitesize’ ?Sessions fit perfectly into a 60-minute CPD session. ?Develops knowledge and skills over time – strengthening staff confidence and embedding good autism practice. ?Brings consistency in language, understanding and approach to good autism practice across a whole trust or school. ?Aligned with the SEND Code of Practice. ?Receive support through your local AET Partner and the central AET Team. If you would like to find out why 96 schools across 40 trusts are already signed up then click here to find out more??bit.ly/3QGg1KU #AET #Autism #AutismEducation #GoodAutismPractice #DifferenceNotDeficit
Programmes Lead for the Autism Education Trust (AET). Passionate about empowering AET Partners to deliver DfE supported, CPD certified, co-produced AET good autism practice programmes to effect culture change.
It was great to welcome members of our Autism Education Trust (AET) Autistic Young Experts panel to deliver this month’s AET trainer development opportunities session. They spoke passionately about their own lived experience in education as autistic learners with co-occurring conditions, sharing the good, the bad and the ugly, highlighting top tips and priorities for trainers in their work supporting education professionals to develop inclusive good autism practice. The eclectic range of monthly sessions for our national network of AET trainers deepens their knowledge and understanding of autism on different topics from the unique perspectives of those with lived experience. Only trainers of our AET Partner organisations can access these sessions. However, the good news is that everyone can access some of the pearls of wisdom from our Autistic Young Experts! Their voice is, of course, central to the AET training materials which everyone can access through their local AET Partner. We have just launched the new free AET Terminology Guide, led by our Autistic Young Experts, to promote the importance of a positive use of language for everyone. The new Terminology Guide stands alongside other additional free documents already available relating to self-advocacy and creating effective Autistic Young Experts panels. Over and above this, they also have their very own Autistic Young Experts YouTube Channel and dedicated pages on the AET website. You can find all the information at this link. https://lnkd.in/e3ddR9A2 If your organisation is interested in exploring the possibility of becoming an AET Partner in your local area which includes access to these monthly sessions for your AET trainers, have a look at the information at this link and get in touch for an informal conversation. It’ll be great to be in contact with you. https://lnkd.in/dsCpkhKm #autism #education #autismeducation #goodautismpractice #differencenotdeficit #aet
Programmes Lead for the Autism Education Trust (AET). Passionate about empowering AET Partners to deliver DfE supported, CPD certified, co-produced AET good autism practice programmes to effect culture change.
The information that is shared so consistently at all levels - individual, local, regional, national, international - about the experiences and wellbeing of autistic children and young people who find it so difficult to manage the expectations/environments and reach their potential in our education system is distressing. But every single person involved in our education system, whatever their role, can do something to make a positive difference. And as August unfolds and will inevitably run into September and the start of a new academic year, now is a good time to reflect on this. Have a look at the Autism Education Trust (AET) website and join those who absolutely understand that autism is a difference not a deficit and use the AET materials, programmes and support - some free to access - to make a tangible difference to those accessing education and enable them to access an education that supports their wellbeing and outcomes. As a partnership organisation, we know that together we can make a difference. https://lnkd.in/dxybJnY4 #autism #education #autismeducation #goodautismpractice #differencenotdeficit #aet
Programmes Lead for the Autism Education Trust (AET). Passionate about empowering AET Partners to deliver DfE supported, CPD certified, co-produced AET good autism practice programmes to effect culture change.
This is an excellent free resource, don't delay, download your free copy now using the link in the post below. This resource includes information about autism as a difference not deficit and an overview of legislation and guidance. It covers eight important design principles including geography, colours, lighting, acoustics... ...you'll have to download your own free copy to learn what the other four design principles are!! And you will also learn more about each design principle and how these can be put into practice through a number of very interesting case studies. What are you waiting for? Download your own copy now and reflect on the the environment in your setting and what you can do to ensure it is neuro-inclusive.
As part of the NHS England funded Autism in Schools programme, we at the Autism Education Trust have spent the last few years working with our partners across London to improve education for autistic children and young people. A key focus of our work has been enabling environments. We know that environment plays a critical role in creating a positive educational experience for autistic learners. While reasonable adjustments can make spaces more accessible, they often stop short of fostering a truly thriving learning environment. At the AET, we are re-imagining the learning spaces of the future—ones designed with #inclusivity at their core, where autistic and #neurodivergent learners feel safe, empowered, and able to succeed. Our Autism Design Principles Guide is here to help! Inside, you’ll find: ? Practical guidance ? Real-world case studies This FREE resource will help you embed #neuroinclusive design principles, creating more supportive and enabling environments for autistic learners. Download now and join us in making education truly #inclusive??bit.ly/40wIsji #AET #Autism #AutismEducation #GoodAutismPractice #DifferenceNotDeficit
As part of the NHS England funded Autism in Schools programme, we at the Autism Education Trust have spent the last few years working with our partners across London to improve education for autistic children and young people. A key focus of our work has been enabling environments. We know that environment plays a critical role in creating a positive educational experience for autistic learners. While reasonable adjustments can make spaces more accessible, they often stop short of fostering a truly thriving learning environment. At the AET, we are re-imagining the learning spaces of the future—ones designed with #inclusivity at their core, where autistic and #neurodivergent learners feel safe, empowered, and able to succeed. Our Autism Design Principles Guide is here to help! Inside, you’ll find: ? Practical guidance ? Real-world case studies This FREE resource will help you embed #neuroinclusive design principles, creating more supportive and enabling environments for autistic learners. Download now and join us in making education truly #inclusive??bit.ly/40wIsji #AET #Autism #AutismEducation #GoodAutismPractice #DifferenceNotDeficit
Programmes Lead for the Autism Education Trust (AET). Passionate about empowering AET Partners to deliver DfE supported, CPD certified, co-produced AET good autism practice programmes to effect culture change.
Are you interested in becoming an Autism Education Trust (AET) Partner? AET Partners are autism experts who deliver the AET Professional Development Programme (PDP) across their local area to increase understanding, knowledge, skills and confidence across the educational community in their local area to develop inclusive good autism practice cultures to enable all autistic children and young people experience a positive education that supports wellbeing. The PDP Programme is DfE supported, CPD certified, co-produced, research and evidence based and is regularly updated. You can information at this link https://lnkd.in/eQ35EVZ4 Are you a school or trust who has accessed support from an expert AET Partner and now want to embed your learning school or trust wide to truly embrace inclusive good autism practice and culture change to embed this for long term sustainability? We have just the programme for you, our new AET Work-Based CPD Programme. The AET Work-Based CPD Programme has a set of online videos which are facilitated by a nominated member of your own staff team to continue learning, increasing confidence and embedding consistent inclusive good autism practice across your school/Trust. You get support from an AET Programme Manager as well as your local area expert AET Partner. You can find information at this link https://lnkd.in/dtvJpPrT Have a look and learn all about the AET Programmes and how these can support you with your priorities relating to autism. Or just message me and we can arrange an informal conversation. #autism #education #autismeducation #goodautismpractice #aet #differencenotdeficit
