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Southern Utah Autism Conference 2025
Saturday, April 26
 

TBA

Conference Credit
Saturday April 26, 2025 TBA
Conference Credit will be issued in Midas for teachers that request it here.
Speakers
avatar for Chris Haught

Chris Haught

Media Specialist, Southwest Educational Development Center
Chris Haught is the Technology/Media Mentor at Southwest Educational Service Center (SEDC), a regional Service Center that serves six district and seven charter ELA’s.Chris works closely with the region’s librarians providing support and training on Utah’s Online Library, the... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 TBA
  Conference Information

8:30am MDT

Check-In & Eat: Power up with a Light Snack
Saturday April 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am MDT
Lunchroom
Pick up your badge to check in and enjoy a light snack of fruit and muffins. Water will be available all day.
Saturday April 26, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am MDT
Lunchroom
  Conference Information

9:00am MDT

Welcome to the Southern Utah Autism Conference
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:00am - 9:15am MDT
Lunchroom
Join us for a brief welcome and overview of the day's schedule.
Wifi Access
ICSDConnect
behavior25
Speakers
avatar for Chris Haught

Chris Haught

Media Specialist, Southwest Educational Development Center
Chris Haught is the Technology/Media Mentor at Southwest Educational Service Center (SEDC), a regional Service Center that serves six district and seven charter ELA’s.Chris works closely with the region’s librarians providing support and training on Utah’s Online Library, the... Read More →
avatar for Paul Day

Paul Day

Autism Specialist, SEDC
Paul Day is a school psychologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. He has been working in the field of autism for the past 25 years. Paul has been an autism specialist for school districts for over 20 years. His specialty is developing ABA based intervention programs for students... Read More →
avatar for Joe B Wright

Joe B Wright

Executive Director, SEDC
Joe B. Wright has been the Executive Director of the Southwest Educational Development Center since 2018. Joe B. was born and raised in Kanab, Utah. He is a graduate of Kanab High School, Southern Utah University, Northern Arizona University, and Northcentral University. He holds... Read More →
ES
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:00am - 9:15am MDT
Lunchroom
  Conference Information

9:00am MDT

Partners and Vendors
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm MDT
Main Hall
Please visit our Partners and Vendors in the Central Hall between sessions and during lunch.
Speakers
avatar for Sage Allen, M.S.

Sage Allen, M.S.

I have a Master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development. I have taught healthy marriage and relationship classes for several years. I have a profoundly autistic son and he has definitely changed the way I teach about healthy relationships. I know how hard it can be to... Read More →
avatar for Amy Bates

Amy Bates

Outreach Coordinator, Family Support Center
Amy Bates has worked at The Family Support Center in several different capacities for 17 years, most recently as the Outreach Coordinator. She also worked for Utah Foster Care for over 10 years as an consultant and trainer. She is passionate about supporting children and helping families... Read More →
Partners
avatar for Alicia Weigle

Alicia Weigle

Root For Kids
Parents As Teachers (Early Childhood Development, free Home Visiting, School Readiness non-profit)
avatar for Amber Wood

Amber Wood

ScenicView Academy
Non-profit transitional school for Young Adults with autism or other neurodiversities.
avatar for Emily Sonzogni

Emily Sonzogni

Prickly Pear Pediatric Therapy
Prickly Pear Pediatric Therapy is a speech, language, occupational, and feeding therapy practice located in the heart of *St. George, Utah. Our SLPs and OTs are committed to bringing beauty and hope to the desert seasons of life. This life is full of challenges, but we exist to help... Read More →
avatar for Eric Larson

Eric Larson

Utah Behavior Services
AUTISM SERVICES, MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES, MEDICAL CLINIC SERVICESWe dedicate ourselves to helping children succeed and building strong families through integrated, high-quality, evidence-based services.Our support services include family counseling, skill-building programs, and community... Read More →
avatar for Jeanne Fielding

Jeanne Fielding

Red Rock Center for Independence (RRCI)
Assistive Technology for people with disabilities. Youth, Low Vision/Older Blind programs and classes, Autism, Wheelchair support/classes and activities, Loan Bank for the community. All at no cost to the client.  
avatar for Jonah Pena Ekker

Jonah Pena Ekker

Canyon Creek Services
CCS offers completely free, confidential and comprehensive services to all survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Services range from outreach advocacy, legal and medical accompaniment, emergency residential shelter, housing advocacy, and more.
avatar for Kayla Robertson

Kayla Robertson

GRANDfamilies
Non-profit organization that assists with kinship care, guardianship, and referrals for adoption.
avatar for Lisa Gomes

Lisa Gomes

435 777 4121 Cell, Utah Parent Center
The mission of the Utah Parent Center (UPC or Center) is to help parents help their children, youth and young adults with all disabilities to live included, productive lives as members of the community.We accomplish our mission by providing accurate information, empathetic peer support... Read More →
avatar for Luca Nordquist

Luca Nordquist

Possibilities ABA
Autism services and counseling
avatar for Stephen Thyfault

Stephen Thyfault

Owner/dad, Kyle’s CREATIONS
My 27yr old autistic son loves to tie-dye. He has converted mom and dad into tie-dye. He asked mom if he could sell his shirts at the farmer’s market. It was just too cold. So mom decided we would open a store. Then in September 2024, we opened that store downtown at Boomers. We... Read More →
avatar for Taylor Thomas

Taylor Thomas

Owner, Taylor Thomas Coaching, LLC
Taylor is a coach for parents and autistic individuals with extensive experience working with individuals from ages 2 to adulthood across a range of diagnoses, including autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and ODD. With a deep understanding of autism and a commitment to compassionate, individualized... Read More →
avatar for Viet Dinh

Viet Dinh

ABS Kids
ABA Therapy
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:00am - 3:00pm MDT
Main Hall

9:30am MDT

Autism and ABA—Seeing Behavioral Science from the Neurodivergent Perspective
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Room C1
Over the past few decades, Applied Behavior Analysis has become the predominant evidence-based intervention for treating Autism Spectrum Disorders. But despite the mountains of published research and application showing that it can and does have a socially valid impact on autism-related challenging behaviors, there is a growing backlash against ABA from Autistic self-advocates and the Neurodiversity movement as a whole which we all need to understand and address. Discover insights into the pros and cons of ABA by engaging in an examination of ABA through the lens of an Autistic BCBA’s professional and lived experiences. Learn why ABA (even “New ABA”) can be problematic, and explore some practical tips and guidelines on how to avoid the very real trauma and abuse that can result from even the most well-intended ABA when it is not conducted from an autonomy-affirming framework. Participants will leave with tools for creating and strengthening autism-informed practices, and with insights for effectively and ethically utilizing ABA interventions with neurodivergent individuals while improving the reputation and results of ABA with individuals on the Spectrum of all ages.
Speakers
avatar for Jared Stewart

Jared Stewart

Program Director, ScenicView Academy www.svacademy.org
Jared Stewart, M.Ed., BCBA, was named the 2011 Educator of the Year by the National Association of Private Special Education Centers, the 2018 Presenter of the Year by the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs, and the 2020 Hero for Autism by the Autism Resources... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Room C1
  ABA Practices

9:30am MDT

How to keep your marriage alive with autistic children
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Room D111
In this session, we will talk about best practices for healthy marriages with a special emphasis on how to do this with autistic children. We will talk about focusing on what we can and can't control, reframing negative thoughts and decreasing resentment towards our partners, and setting aside adequate time for the marriage. I have a Master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development and I used to teach healthy relationships classes for the USU Extension Office before my child was diagnosed with autism. So I knew a ton about how to have healthy relationships, but keeping a marriage alive with a severely autistic child is hard! I have learned so much the last 7 years on how to keep the marriage functioning while dealing with autistic children and I would love to share what I have learned with you.
Speakers
avatar for Sage Allen, M.S.

Sage Allen, M.S.

I have a Master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development. I have taught healthy marriage and relationship classes for several years. I have a profoundly autistic son and he has definitely changed the way I teach about healthy relationships. I know how hard it can be to... Read More →
How to keep your marriage Alive pdf
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Room D111
  Communication

9:30am MDT

Harmonizing Family Dynamics: A DBT Approach to Strengthening Relationships
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Room C6
When one member of a family struggles, everyone feels it. Drawing from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), this workshop will address ways to rebalance family life to recenter on bonding, fun, and overall healthy relationships. We will also cover how to establish clear family rules and expectations, and how to recover more quickly after difficult incidents. The goal is to have more enjoyable family time and spend less time managing problems.
Speakers
BS

Brett Shumway

Possibilities ABA
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Room C6
  Coping Skills for Families

9:30am MDT

Reframing Communication: Promoting Dignity and Inclusivity in Disability Discourse
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Room D2
Empowering Communication: Autism-Affirming Language
In this session, participants will explore the evolving dynamics of disability identity and how we talk about it. We’ll delve into the distinctions between disability-affirming language and person-first language, examining their origins, purposes, and real-world implications. We will discuss language choices that respect individual preferences and diversity while fostering inclusivity and empowerment. Through real-life examples and interactive discussions, participants will gain practical tools to communicate in ways that honor the dignity and identity of the people they interact with.
Speakers
avatar for Summer Gunn

Summer Gunn

Professional Practices Assistant Professor, Utah State University Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counselling
USU OPTT is an innovative, online special education preparation program specifically designed for individuals currently working in a Utah school as a special education teacher or a special education paraprofessional. The program accepts applicants who are special education teachers... Read More →
01 Reframing communication pptx
Autistic Affirming Language Letter accessible pdf
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Room D2
  Inclusionary Practices

9:30am MDT

Understanding Sensory Behavior and Supporting Children's Needs Appropriately
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Lunchroom
Sensory is understood as a function of behavior by the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, but is sometimes misunderstood. Insights are shared about how to look at the function of sensory behavior. This session will talk about the sensory needs of children and how to help children get the things they need in socially appropriate ways.  
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Merritt

Danielle Merritt

MA BCBA LBA, Elevation Behavioral Science Services
Danielle Merritt MA BCBA LBA loves the work she does as the owner and director of Elevation Behavioral Science Services. Danielle is a Licensed Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (MA BCBA LBA) with a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and a master’s certification in Autism... Read More →
Sensory As a Function 4pg D Merritt 4 25.pdf prn
Saturday April 26, 2025 9:30am - 10:30am MDT
Lunchroom
  Sensory

10:35am MDT

Cancelled-Understanding Sensory Challenges in Autism: Navigating Food and Mealtime Stress
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room C6
Food plays a unique role in the lives of autistic individuals, often complicated by the presence of sensory sensitivities and limited palates. Navigating these obstacles can be difficult and oh so stressful for everyone involved in the meal process, so what gives? What’s going on and can it improve? Join as we discuss food, self-regulation, and maybe even some helpful ideas.
Speakers
avatar for Josh Olivas

Josh Olivas

Autism Specialist
Josh (he/him) considered using AI to write this bio, as a robot writing about a robot seemed deliciously appropriate, but, unfortunately, he couldn't get past the CAPTCHA code. Having somehow made it into his 30s, he has a wide variety of experiences and interests which he draws upon... Read More →
Navigating Food and Mealtime Stress pdf
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room C6
  Behavior at Home

10:35am MDT

Interactive Learning: Games for Independent and Happy Little Humans
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room D1
Teaching through games.  Helping the little humans become independent.  Introducing games in a controlled environment.  Creating a Happy Place. Playing games in ways the child does not realize they are learning... a Magical Place.  Every child has motivators. Get ready to have fun and teach the children in so many ways that they WANT to "Learn".   (About Children-Play)
Speakers
avatar for Lucia Cortes Medrano
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room D1
  Behavior at Home

10:35am MDT

Uncovering the Hidden Messages: Teaching Effective Communication to Children
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room D6
Lack of communication is the number one reason for problem behavior. In this session we will discuss how to identify what a child's problem behavior is telling us about their need for communication and how to teach them to communicate the things they need. When children know that the are understood and that there communication is honored, much of their problem behavior goes away and growing blossoms.
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Merritt

Danielle Merritt

MA BCBA LBA, Elevation Behavioral Science Services
Danielle Merritt MA BCBA LBA loves the work she does as the owner and director of Elevation Behavioral Science Services. Danielle is a Licensed Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (MA BCBA LBA) with a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and a master’s certification in Autism... Read More →
Reducing problem Behavior through Communication 4 Slides DMerritt 4 25 prn
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room D6
  Communication

10:35am MDT

Giving the Dignity of Risk
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room C1
It is completely understandable for parents and professionals to want to protect vulnerable individuals with disabilities such as autism. We see the obvious challenges and worry about their ability to safely navigate the world of adulthood. But that same urge to protect can sometimes go to extremes that actually end up disabling those individuals and robbing them of the opportunities and autonomy that could have led to greater resiliency, success, and quality of life. Join Jared Stewart, the Autistic BCBA, to gain valuable insight into how to achieve the critical balance between our responsibility to care and the universal human right to make personal choices.


Speakers
avatar for Jared Stewart

Jared Stewart

Program Director, ScenicView Academy www.svacademy.org
Jared Stewart, M.Ed., BCBA, was named the 2011 Educator of the Year by the National Association of Private Special Education Centers, the 2018 Presenter of the Year by the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs, and the 2020 Hero for Autism by the Autism Resources... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room C1
  Coping Skills for Families

10:35am MDT

Disability & Special Needs Planning Made Easy;
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room D111
Join us for an informative and educational workshop for family members with loved ones of all ages with Autism or any other types of physical or cognitive disabilities or special needs. The topics covered in this workshop include Guardianship vs Alternatives to Guardianship, Wills, Family Trusts, Special Needs Trusts, SSI, Social Security Disability, Social Security Retirement/Survivors Benefits, Medicaid/Medicare, ABLE Accounts, Budget Planning and Lifestyle/Transition Planning. This workshop will explain why these disability and special needs planning aspects and documents are important to have and how they complement each other in a plan designed to protect yourself, your family and/or your loved one’s current and future quality of life and care.  Don’t be afraid to plan… be afraid if you don’t plan.
Speakers
avatar for Andre Sam

Andre Sam

Comprehensive Disability/Special Needs Planner, Disability & Special Needs Project
Andre Sam, CRPC®, APMA®, is a Comprehensive Disability/Special Needs Planner with the Disability & Special Needs Project. Upon earning a Bachelors Degree in Economics from the University of Arizona, Andre began a career in Comprehensive Disability and Special Needs Planning. Andre... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room D111
  Legal (IEPS

10:35am MDT

Maximizing Inclusion: Choosing the Right Supplemental Aides and Services (SAS)
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room D2
Supplemental Aides and Services (SAS) are the “linchpin” of inclusion in general education. With limited guidance from the research literature, identifying appropriate accommodations can be difficult. Sometimes, decisions are based more on IEP team members’ personal experiences than the student’s individual needs in general education. In the session, we will discuss guiding questions IEP teams can use to determine supplemental aides and services. We will discuss a framework for considering a student’s need for SAS, (physical/accessibility, instructional, behavioral, social-communication, collaboration).
Speakers
avatar for Summer Gunn

Summer Gunn

Professional Practices Assistant Professor, Utah State University Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counselling
USU OPTT is an innovative, online special education preparation program specifically designed for individuals currently working in a Utah school as a special education teacher or a special education paraprofessional. The program accepts applicants who are special education teachers... Read More →
02 Maximizing Inclusion SAS pptx
Ecological Assessment with Supplementary Aids and Services docx
USBESpeciallyDesignedInstruction pdf
WhatIsSDI.USBE pdf
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room D2
  Legal (IEPS   Disability   etc)   Disability

10:35am MDT

Help Wanted: I need a job, now what do I do.
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room C2
 Best practices from ScenicView Academy, that help Autistic students find meaningful employment.


Speakers
avatar for Scott Wood

Scott Wood

ScenicView Academy
Scott graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. Scott has worked for ScenicView since it opened, and has enjoyed seeing its growth, and seeing the students benefit from the services provided at ScenicView. He has many duties, including... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 10:35am - 11:35am MDT
Room C2
  Workplace Skills

11:40am MDT

Trauma-Informed ABA: Supporting Children's Well-being Through Compassionate Care
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room D6
Compassionate care through understanding the whole child is the goal of quality Applied Behavior Analysis. This session will discuss the elements of trauma assumed ABA and the power that it has to support children. We will talk about aspects to consider when looking for this kind of provider and the difference it can make in the quality of care.
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Merritt

Danielle Merritt

MA BCBA LBA, Elevation Behavioral Science Services
Danielle Merritt MA BCBA LBA loves the work she does as the owner and director of Elevation Behavioral Science Services. Danielle is a Licensed Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (MA BCBA LBA) with a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and a master’s certification in Autism... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room D6
  ABA Practices

11:40am MDT

Supporting Parents: Strategies for Managing Challenging Behaviors at Home
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room C6
Acknowledge the challenges parents face in managing challenging behaviors at home. Emphasize the importance of positive behavior support and creating a structured and predictable environment. Reiterate the importance of patience, consistency, and seeking professional support.


Speakers
avatar for Amy Bates

Amy Bates

Outreach Coordinator, Family Support Center
Amy Bates has worked at The Family Support Center in several different capacities for 17 years, most recently as the Outreach Coordinator. She also worked for Utah Foster Care for over 10 years as an consultant and trainer. She is passionate about supporting children and helping families... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room C6
  Behavior at Home

11:40am MDT

Supporting Young Children's Social Emotional Development: Practical Tools for Caregivers
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room D2
The National Center for Pyramid Model Innovation has developed a library of resources to support professional and caregiver’s efforts to improving the social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes of young children birth to five. In this session the presenter will highlight practical tools for teaching emotional regulations, friendship skills, problem-solving, and behavior regulation. Resources are available in multiple languages and include family handouts that describe evidence-based practices.
ChallengingBehavior.org Resources
Speakers
avatar for Summer Gunn

Summer Gunn

Professional Practices Assistant Professor, Utah State University Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counselling
USU OPTT is an innovative, online special education preparation program specifically designed for individuals currently working in a Utah school as a special education teacher or a special education paraprofessional. The program accepts applicants who are special education teachers... Read More →
03 Supporting Young Children’s Social Emotional Development pptx
definition soc emotional dev pdf
pyramid model handout pdf
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room D2
  Behavior at Home

11:40am MDT

10 Strategies Proven to Inspire Even the Most Difficult Students
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room C2
Want to engage even the most difficult student? This session will show you 10 strategies proven effective at building relationships, grabbing attention, and inspiring difficult students. Learn ways to speak/connect with others using relevant multimedia, physical activities, and visual metaphors.


Speakers
avatar for Scott Wood

Scott Wood

ScenicView Academy
Scott graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. Scott has worked for ScenicView since it opened, and has enjoyed seeing its growth, and seeing the students benefit from the services provided at ScenicView. He has many duties, including... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room C2
  Classroom Management

11:40am MDT

Designing Effective Behavior Interventions
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room D1
This session will look at designing behavioral interventions for various types of behavior problems.  We will talk about how to assess the different causes of behavior and how to address them with specific interventions.  Specifically, we will be looking at issues such as skill deficits, learned behavior, trauma, and emotional/behavioral reactivity.  We will then talk about how to design an intervention plan that provides the best chance for improvement.  This presentation should be helpful for both educators and parents.
Speakers
avatar for Paul Day

Paul Day

Autism Specialist, SEDC
Paul Day is a school psychologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. He has been working in the field of autism for the past 25 years. Paul has been an autism specialist for school districts for over 20 years. His specialty is developing ABA based intervention programs for students... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room D1
  Classroom Management

11:40am MDT

How to deal with family members who don't understand autism
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room D111
An autism diagnosis can often cause strain on relationships with family members. Autism causes many families to totally change how they do life and those changes can be hard for other family members to accept. In this session, we will talk about how to foster good relationships with these family members who don't understand autism or who are not supportive. We will talk about communication, setting appropriate boundaries, and regulating our emotions around these people. We will discuss being intentional about how we want to react to unthoughtful comments from family members. I have a Master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development and I have a lot of personal experience in navigating these tricky relationships with my own family.

Speakers
avatar for Sage Allen, M.S.

Sage Allen, M.S.

I have a Master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development. I have taught healthy marriage and relationship classes for several years. I have a profoundly autistic son and he has definitely changed the way I teach about healthy relationships. I know how hard it can be to... Read More →
How to deal with extended family members who don't get autism pdf
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room D111
  Communication

11:40am MDT

Autism and Employment
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room C1
Research suggests that only 1 in 3 adults on the Autism Spectrum are employed.  Most are part time, and most are under-employed given their skills and intelligence.  And yet, research also suggests that employment improves all of the core symptomologies of Autism.  In a world where employment is the single biggest aspect of identity and the single biggest measure of adult success, what are the key preparations, behaviors, and techniques that can empower individuals with ASD to get and keep a job?
Speakers
avatar for Jared Stewart

Jared Stewart

Program Director, ScenicView Academy www.svacademy.org
Jared Stewart, M.Ed., BCBA, was named the 2011 Educator of the Year by the National Association of Private Special Education Centers, the 2018 Presenter of the Year by the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs, and the 2020 Hero for Autism by the Autism Resources... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 11:40am - 12:40pm MDT
Room C1
  Workplace Skills

12:45pm MDT

Lunch
Saturday April 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:30pm MDT
Lunchroom
Lunch will be Jimmy Johns box lunch.
Water will be available. There will be no sodas served.
Please visit the vendors in the hallway.
Saturday April 26, 2025 12:45pm - 1:30pm MDT
Lunchroom

1:30pm MDT

Ask the Autistic BCBA
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room C1
Come join one of the only BCBA's in the world who also happens to be on the Autism Spectrum in an open forum where you are free to ask anything! Jared will take audience questions on any and all aspects of recognizing, understanding, and treating Autism Spectrum Disorder across the lifespan and answer based on his experience as a parent, person on the spectrum, and professional with over twenty years of experience working with hundreds of autistics.  Questions can also be submitted in writing to maximize the number that can be addressed in the available time. This is a great opportunity to get advice on issues and concerns that weren’t addressed anywhere else at the conference!


Speakers
avatar for Jared Stewart

Jared Stewart

Program Director, ScenicView Academy www.svacademy.org
Jared Stewart, M.Ed., BCBA, was named the 2011 Educator of the Year by the National Association of Private Special Education Centers, the 2018 Presenter of the Year by the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs, and the 2020 Hero for Autism by the Autism Resources... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room C1

1:30pm MDT

Improving Behavior through Motivators, Play Time, and Language: Practical Strategies for Parents
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room D1
Play, Language, social skills, discrete trials, and creating routines to help improve behavior starting at home. Non Verbal to Verbal. Modeling. Stepping into their world. NO one is born knowing how to be a SUPER PARENT? What do to improve, gain skills and information, and gain confidence in knowing you can do this!
Speakers
avatar for Lucia Cortes Medrano
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room D1
  Behavior at Home

1:30pm MDT

10 Strategies Proven to Inspire Even the Most Difficult Students-Part 2
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room C2
Want to engage even the most difficult student?  This session will show you 10 strategies proven effective at building relationships, grabbing attention, and inspiring difficult students. Learn ways to speak/connect with others using relevant multimedia, physical activities, and visual metaphors.
Speakers
avatar for Scott Wood

Scott Wood

ScenicView Academy
Scott graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. Scott has worked for ScenicView since it opened, and has enjoyed seeing its growth, and seeing the students benefit from the services provided at ScenicView. He has many duties, including... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room C2
  Classroom Management

1:30pm MDT

Lego Therapy: Building Social Skills in Home and School Environments
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room D111
DEVELOPING A LEGO THERAPY PROGRAM FOR SOCIAL, COMMUNICATION, and IMPULSE CONTROL SKILL DEVELOPMENT IN BOTH SCHOOLS AND HOMES

Lego Therapy is a research-based intervention for individuals on the Autism spectrum that is under utilized and can be implemented effectively in a home or school environment. This session will address how to create a Lego Therapy Program and support implementation in homes or schools; specifically how to do Lego Therapy; the specific social, emotional, impulse-control, and communication skills that Lego Therapy targets; the current data on Lego Therapy effectiveness; and how to incorporate it into Tier 2 School Intervention/SpEd programs and home environments. Participants will get a hands-on demonstration of a Lego Therapy session as well as the informational materials needed to get started on Lego Therapy in their home or school.
Speakers
avatar for Brynn Bell

Brynn Bell

LCSW, BCBA, George Washington Academy
Brynn Bell is passionate about mental health therapy and applied behavior analysis (ABA) and is especially outspoken about the importance of early intervention and working with youth. She has worked in an ABA clinic setting providing both mental health and behavior analysis services... Read More →
Lego Therapy pdf
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room D111
  Communication

1:30pm MDT

Looking at Autism through the experience and eyes of young adults with autism.
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room D6
This session will talk about the ways that autism has affected the experiences of my 2 children who are now young adults. This session will given an understanding of how they view communication with others, sensory needs and experiences that have been beneficial, and other insights.
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Merritt

Danielle Merritt

MA BCBA LBA, Elevation Behavioral Science Services
Danielle Merritt MA BCBA LBA loves the work she does as the owner and director of Elevation Behavioral Science Services. Danielle is a Licensed Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (MA BCBA LBA) with a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and a master’s certification in Autism... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room D6
  Coping Skills for Families

1:30pm MDT

Navigating Autism: Supporting Family Resilience and Self-Care Strategies
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room C6
Acknowledge the emotional and practical challenges faced by families of children with autism. Emphasize the importance of self-care and building resilience within the family system and offer coping strategies for parent.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Bates

Amy Bates

Outreach Coordinator, Family Support Center
Amy Bates has worked at The Family Support Center in several different capacities for 17 years, most recently as the Outreach Coordinator. She also worked for Utah Foster Care for over 10 years as an consultant and trainer. She is passionate about supporting children and helping families... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room C6
  Coping Skills for Families

1:30pm MDT

Navigating the Hidden Curriculum with IEP Teams
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room D2
Identifying the Hidden Curriculum
General education curriculum is made up of the ‘explicit curriculum’ (linked to core standards and essential elements), ‘hidden curriculum’ (unspoken, implicit, values, and social norms for student’s behaviors, attitudes, and expectations), and the ‘null curriculum ‘(the knowledge, skills, or topics that are intentionally or unintentionally omitted). For all students to access each part of the general education curriculum, it is important for the IEP team to consider each aspect. In this session, we will discuss using assessment practices that support the IEP team in understanding what needs the student has regarding the ‘hidden curriculum’, and ideas for planning intervention and specially designed instruction to support their acquisition of skills.


Speakers
avatar for Summer Gunn

Summer Gunn

Professional Practices Assistant Professor, Utah State University Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counselling
USU OPTT is an innovative, online special education preparation program specifically designed for individuals currently working in a Utah school as a special education teacher or a special education paraprofessional. The program accepts applicants who are special education teachers... Read More →
04 Navigating the hidden curriculum pptx
USBESpeciallyDesignedInstruction pdf
WhatIsSDI.USBE pdf
Ecological Assessment docx
Saturday April 26, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Room D2
  Legal (IEPS   Disability   etc)   Disability   Disability

2:30pm MDT

Panel Discussion
Saturday April 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Lunchroom
Speakers
avatar for Paul Day

Paul Day

Autism Specialist, SEDC
Paul Day is a school psychologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. He has been working in the field of autism for the past 25 years. Paul has been an autism specialist for school districts for over 20 years. His specialty is developing ABA based intervention programs for students... Read More →
ES
avatar for Danielle Merritt

Danielle Merritt

MA BCBA LBA, Elevation Behavioral Science Services
Danielle Merritt MA BCBA LBA loves the work she does as the owner and director of Elevation Behavioral Science Services. Danielle is a Licensed Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (MA BCBA LBA) with a master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and a master’s certification in Autism... Read More →
avatar for Summer Gunn

Summer Gunn

Professional Practices Assistant Professor, Utah State University Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation Counselling
USU OPTT is an innovative, online special education preparation program specifically designed for individuals currently working in a Utah school as a special education teacher or a special education paraprofessional. The program accepts applicants who are special education teachers... Read More →
avatar for Jared Stewart

Jared Stewart

Program Director, ScenicView Academy www.svacademy.org
Jared Stewart, M.Ed., BCBA, was named the 2011 Educator of the Year by the National Association of Private Special Education Centers, the 2018 Presenter of the Year by the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs, and the 2020 Hero for Autism by the Autism Resources... Read More →
Partners
avatar for Stephen Thyfault

Stephen Thyfault

Owner/dad, Kyle’s CREATIONS
My 27yr old autistic son loves to tie-dye. He has converted mom and dad into tie-dye. He asked mom if he could sell his shirts at the farmer’s market. It was just too cold. So mom decided we would open a store. Then in September 2024, we opened that store downtown at Boomers. We... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Lunchroom

2:30pm MDT

How to get your autistic child to sleep better: learn how to help them fall asleep easier and sleep for longer
Saturday April 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Room D2
In this session, we will talk about how to get your child to sleep better at night! We will discuss research and practical tips on how to get autistic children and adults to go to sleep easier and sleep for longer. When kids get a healthy amount of sleep, they will learn things easier and be less aggressive and reactive over tiny things. Helping a family get their child on a healthy sleep schedule is so important because lack of sleep will affect everyone. Once families can get their kids to sleep well, the parents can then have more time for self-care and improving their relationships. So in this session, we will discuss best practices for helping autistic children get a healthy amount of sleep.

NOTE: I'm having trouble uploading my powerpoint because of the file size limits, so go to sagerelationshipadvice.com to view the powerpoint. 
Speakers
avatar for Sage Allen, M.S.

Sage Allen, M.S.

I have a Master's degree in Marriage, Family, and Human Development. I have taught healthy marriage and relationship classes for several years. I have a profoundly autistic son and he has definitely changed the way I teach about healthy relationships. I know how hard it can be to... Read More →
Saturday April 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Room D2
  Behavior at Home

2:30pm MDT

Teaching Flexible Thinking: Strategies for Autism Spectrum Individuals
Saturday April 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Room D111
FLEXIBLE THINKING...WE ALL NEED IT, BUT HOW DO WE TEACH IT?
Rigidity in some form or another impacts individuals on the Autism spectrum and can be pretty difficult to combat. This session will explore different methods, visuals, and language to teach flexible thinking. This session will increase caregivers' skills at fostering a better understanding in their loved one on the spectrum of equality versus equity, all or nothing thinking, size of reaction matching the size of problem, growth mindset, and CBT thinking errors related to rigidity.
Speakers
avatar for Brynn Bell

Brynn Bell

LCSW, BCBA, George Washington Academy
Brynn Bell is passionate about mental health therapy and applied behavior analysis (ABA) and is especially outspoken about the importance of early intervention and working with youth. She has worked in an ABA clinic setting providing both mental health and behavior analysis services... Read More →
Teaching Flexible Thinking pdf
Flexibility Worksheets pdf
Saturday April 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Room D111
  Behavior at Home

2:30pm MDT

Motivate Focus and Independence in Children: Consistency, Communication, and Guidance
Saturday April 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Room D1
Engaging the child in activities that develop positive behaviors.  Decreasing negative emotions. Increasing attention span.   Helping a child to become independent through consistency, communication and guidance. (For caregivers, aides, and professionals---to help you do your best)
Speakers
avatar for Lucia Cortes Medrano
Saturday April 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Room D1
  Classroom Management

2:30pm MDT

Enhancing Interpersonal Communication Skills in Autism: Strategies for Success
Saturday April 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Room C6
Underdeveloped skill in back-and-forth communication is a core diagnostic feature of autism. Teaching effective interpersonal communication goes a long way to reduce tantrums, frustration, and other concerns. Knowing that, how do we effectively teach interpersonal communication to children, youth, and young adults on the autism spectrum? This workshop will draw from social skills training (PEERS), and  Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to do just that.  
Speakers
BS

Brett Shumway

Possibilities ABA
Saturday April 26, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Room C6
  Communication

3:30pm MDT

Conference Feedback
Saturday April 26, 2025 3:30pm - 3:45pm MDT
Lunchroom
Please use the tools in Sched to provide session feedback. Please feel free to submit general conference feedback here, thanks for attending!
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Saturday April 26, 2025 3:30pm - 3:45pm MDT
Lunchroom
 
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Saturday, April 26
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