As they frequently remind us, adolescents with ASD and cognitive impairments are still
adolescents! Social skills programs that match their cognitive level are “too babyish” for
adolescents. Yet, the current age-appropriate social skills and self-regulation programs require sophisticated language and cognitive skills that these adolescents have not yet mastered.
This workshop will begin with a brief review of diagnostic criteria in the DSM-5 and the
presentation of a neurodevelopmental framework for the social, emotional, and behavioral challenges often observed in adolescents with ASD and cognitive impairment. Dr. Bolick will then focus upon practical adaptations of evidence-based
social/emotional and behavioral interventions for students with significant delays. The workshop will also address that importance of age-appropriate materials even when students have severe cognitive and communicative delays.
The content of the workshop is intended for professionals, paraprofessionals, and family members who already have basic knowledge of autism spectrum disorders and cognitive impairments.
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