Developing Communication, Learning and Access Skills for Children Who Face Severe Physical and Multiple Challenges (2 Day Course)

Description

Are you working or living with children who face significant physical and multiple challenges in addition to complex communication needs, such as Cerebral Palsy, Rett Syndrome or Traumatic Brain Injury? Do you find them struggling to juggle the challenges of motor coordination, sensory processing, communication, language, vision and cognition needed to effectively communicate what they are thinking and to access education? Many children in this group find it challenging to effectively use their hands to directly operate communication devices or access computers. In addition, some of these children face added complexity in this process due to cerebral/cortical visual impairment (CVI).
During this two-day presentation, we will examine how the brain processes new information and acquires knowledge. We will explore the innate motivational drives that can be leveraged to enhance engagement and foster internal motivation in the classroom. Come learn how to determine priorities among all the numerous challenges, and how to address the individual’s many varying needs in parallel. How does CVI impact our decisions regarding the design and presentation of educational materials, teaching literacy, and communication systems?
We will investigate the subtle but significant strategies for teaching partner-assisted scanning as a non-electronic means of accessing educational materials and communication systems such as PODD. The ‘Stepping Stones to Switch Access’ process (Burkhart) will be shared with the focus on practical strategies and customizable electronic tools.

Location NIU conference center Naperville
1120 E. Diehl Rd
Naperville, IL 60563
Date 11/6/2024 8:30 AM - 11/7/2024 4:30 PM (Check in 8:00 AM)
Sponsor Center for Independence
Trainer Linda Burkhart
Contact Shirley Sains (708) 510-8956 stsains@comcast.net
Principles 1. Support families
2. Active participation
3. Collaborative relationships
4. Specific IFSP goals
8. Quality services
Credit Hours 1.0 - Assessment
5.5 - Atypical Development
5.5 - Intervention
1.0 - Typical Development
Cost $325
Status Closed