Part 1: Best Practices for Working with Young Children on the Autism Spectrum with Limited Language

This workshop is designed to support educators and service providers working with young children on the Autism Spectrum who present with limited language skills. Participants explore the importance of joint attention and pragmatic language skills, which are foundational for communication and social development. The session emphasizes the use of play-based instruction as a practical tool for encouraging language growth. Video clips of real classroom interactions are used to illustrate effective strategies, helping educators identify and apply best practices immediately.

• Limited opportunities for children on the Autism Spectrum to develop joint attention and functional communication skills.
  
  
• Challenges in fostering pragmatic language use in natural, meaningful contexts.
  
  
• Lack of teacher confidence or training in applying play-based, developmentally appropriate interventions.
  
  
• Difficulty recognizing and responding to subtle communication behaviors in nonspeaking or minimally verbal children.

1. Promoting Joint Attention and Language Growth
   Participants will learn how to intentionally design activities that foster joint attention and provide a foundation for functional language development.
   
   
2. Implementing Play-Based Approaches
   Educators will gain practical strategies for using play and interaction to encourage communication, engagement, and relationship building in children with limited language.
   
   
3. Identifying and Applying Best Practices
   Through analysis of video examples, participants will practice identifying effective interventions and leave with concrete strategies to implement immediately in their classrooms.