(Emergent) Literacy and Autism: Assessment to Intervention

This workshop will outline why children on the autism spectrum are at high risk of persistent reading challenges, drawing from the presenters’ own program of research. It will summarise the existing research evidence, from assessment to evidence-based intervention, and highlight the important role speech pathologists and psychologists can play in promoting reading success. The workshop will consist of live presentations, discussions, and case-based workshop activities. 

Upon completion of this workshop, you will be able to: 

• Summarise the importance of spoken language proficiency for successful reading development, with reference to the Simple View of Reading.  
• Explain the core characteristics of autism and the impact autism may have on children’s reading (development). 
• Explain why children on the spectrum may be at particular risk of persistent reading comprehension challenges. 
• List a range of strategies for working with children on the spectrum and apply them to your assessment and/or intervention practices when targeting the spoken and/or written language skills underpinning successful reading development.  
• Confidently refute some of the common myths around literacy learning in children on the autism spectrum.  
• Plan an individualised emergent/ early reading assessment for children on the spectrum, using an assessment preparation checklist  
• Explain how to source and use high quality information to inform evidence-based intervention. 
• Prepare an intervention plan for a child on the spectrum, targeting the spoken and/or written language skills underpinning successful reading, using case-study data. 
• Explain how you may adapt your current intervention practices to include reading-related goals and activities.   

One day face-to-face workshop presented by A/Prof Marleen Westerveld (Certified Practising Speech Pathologist, Speech Pathology) and Dr Jessica Paynter (Clinical Psychologist, Applied Psychology). Morning/afternoon tea and lunch provided.
Please note that attendance will be capped. Once sold out, please contact m.westerveld@griffith.edu.au to be added to a waitlist.

$260

Saturday 9th July

Registration fees can be refunded, less a $25 service charge, by written request to m.westerveld@griffith.edu.au up to 72 hours before the event. In case of illness or emergency within 72 hours of the event, a refund (less $50 to cover administration and catering costs) will be at the discretion of the organisers. Alternatively, a substitute delegate is welcome. Please notify m.westerveld@griffith.edu.au in writing.