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Autism and Adoption (for Professionals)

Children on the autism spectrum can often be misunderstood by their surrounding community. Often, the intersectionality of loss and grief present in adoption, coupled with autism, can present unique challenges to adoptive parents and the professionals that work with them. In this course, adoption professionals learn about available resources and techniques to help communicate with children on the autism spectrum about how and why they joined the family, who their birth family members are, and other questions related to their adoption.

This course provides an overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), discussion about the differences in ASD presentation, and practical resources and parenting strategies for families. Attention is given to adoptees with autism, as well as how a diagnosis may impact relationships with siblings, birth families, and adoptive parents. The intersectionality of ASD with other issues connected to adoption, such as grief, maintaining relationships, and understanding the adoption story is highlighted.

David Brown, MSW – President, Family Initiative, Inc.
Anjali Van Drie, MA, MSW, BCBA – Vice President, Family Initiative, Inc.

Course length: 60 minutes

After attending this course, professionals will be able to:
• Describe parenting strategies for effective communication with adoptees with autism.
• Use practical resources for meeting the physical, educational, and social needs of adoptees with autism.
• Examine the intersectionality of ASD with other issues connected to adoption such as grief, maintaining relationships, and understanding the adoption story.

Course level: Beginning, Intermediate

Cost to register: $15
If you are a NCFA member, look for your discount code in the membership portal.

Register for this course

For more information on this webinar and continuing education credits, click the “Register for this course” button above"