Saving Autistic Students From Neurotypical Goals: Person-Centered Preparation for a Neurodiverse World 

sAn Individual Education Plan (IEP) is, by design, intended to be person-centered. However, when neurotypical people write goals for neurodiverse students, there is the potential to create goals with the neurotypical brain in mind. Dr. Amy Laurent and Dr. Jacquelyn Fede redefine our understanding of "person-centered," and challenge us, as teachers and parents, to create IEP goals that are specific to the individual autistic child. Creating goals that are authentically person-centered prepares an autistic child to thrive as an autistic adult. 

Amy Laurent, PhD, OTR/L is a developmental psychologist and a registered pediatric occupational therapist. She is a co-author of the SCERTS model, a comprehensive, evidence-based model for supporting autistic individuals across the lifespan. She frequently lectures and provides training throughout the United States and internationally on topics related to neurodiversity and helping others to understand and honor the implications of "different ways of being" in relation to navigating the physical and social world. Her research interests include emotional / energy regulation and active engagement in natural contexts. Dr. Laurent strives to practice what she preaches and uses her love of play and movement to meet her own regulatory needs.

Jacquelyn Fede, PhD is a super fun, Autistic Self-Advocate, developmental psychologist and program evaluator. Her research interests include immigration policy, autism, and community engagement. She uses her experience to help educate others about autism through lecturing, blogging and consulting on evaluation projects. A full scholarship Division 1 athlete in college, Dr. Fede continues to meet her sensory needs by seeking extreme physical activity. She also enjoys the use of creativity and art for expression. 

This presentation includes a 15 minute break. 

Additional Information: 

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