Description
The acquisition of friendship skills for typical children is based on an innate and evolving ability to make and keep friends. Unfortunately, autistic children are not as able to rely on intuitive abilities in social settings and must rely more on their general cognitive abilities to process social information. They often have had peer interactions which are likely to have been confusing and, at times, aversive. They have difficulty reading the social rules and conventions and being able to follow them. They are often criticized or rejected by peers when engaged in social play. A lack of friendships can lead to low self-esteem and depression.
The webcast will focus on relevant research on friendship for autistic boys and girls during their primary school years, describe the stages of friendship during those years and strategies to improve friendship abilities, experiences, and confidence at school.
See trailer below for more information on content for the day:
About the speakers
Prof Tony Attwood PhD With a remarkable career spanning five decades, Professor Tony Attwood is one of the world’s foremost specialists on Autism. Holding an Honour’s degree in Psychology from the University of Hull, a Master’s degree in clinical psychology from the University of Surrey, and a PhD from the University of London, his credentials are a testament to his expertise. Currently serving as an adjunct Professor at Griffith University in Queensland, Professor Attwood’s impact has enriched the global understanding of autism.
Alongside Dr Michelle Garnett, Professor Attwood co-founded Attwood & Garnett Events in 2019, driven by the shared goal of enhancing autism awareness and understanding. Their shared vision seeks to reshape the narrative surrounding autism to create a world where autism is embraced, and the diverse strengths, talents, and perspectives of autistic individuals are celebrated. This transformative narrative fosters a more inclusive and accepting society, benefitting all its members.
Renowned for his extensive contributions to understanding Asperger’s Syndrome, now commonly referred to as autism, Professor Attwood has authored numerous publications on the subject. His seminal book, Asperger’s Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals debuted in 1998, resonated globally and has since found its voice in over 25 languages, making his insights accessible across cultures and continents.
With a dedicated commitment to practical application, he has run a private practice for 30 years, only recently closing his books due to a long waiting list. Beyond his clinical work, he dedicates significant time to travel, sharing insights and knowledge through workshops and seminars across national and international platforms.
Dr Michelle Garnett PhD is a clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of specialising in autism. In 2005, she founded Minds & Hearts, a clinic specialised to autism, where she served as Clinical and Managing Director for 14 years until 2019. Alongside Tony Attwood she co-founded Attwood & Garnett Events in 2019, aiming to enhance autism awareness and understanding with a vision to foster a neuro-affirming community.
In addition to her extensive private practice, Dr Garnett has significantly contributed to autism research, authored influential books, and engaged in impactful speaking engagements. Her peer-reviewed research has informed our understanding of early autism identification, the female autism profile, and the link between mental health and positive outcomes in autistic individuals. She has co-authored six respected books on autism, including the influential Spectrum Women: Walking to the Beat of Autism (2018) with Barb Cook, a seminal work on the female autism experience. Her recent books, Having Fun with Feelings on the Autism Spectrum and Ten Steps to Reducing Your Child’s Anxiety on the Autism Spectrum offer invaluable guidance to parents of young autistic children.
Dr Garnett is a sought-after presence in academic circles, presenting as a Keynote Speaker at conferences and conducting workshops, seminars, and training sessions on autism across Australia, the UK, and Europe. Her influence extends to universities, autism organisations, government, and non-governmental bodies, solidifying her reputation as a prominent figure in the autism field.
Learning Objectives
To be aware of the latest research on the friendship abilities of autistic children and the theoretical models that explain the friendship challenges.
To know how to assess an autistic child’s friendship abilities and difficulties.
To acquire strategies to reinforce existing friendship skills and develop the friendship abilities anticipated by peers.
What will I be able to do as a result of taking this course?
Understand why autistic children have difficulties making and maintaining friendships and how to facilitate friendship inclusion and success.
What You Will Receive
- The Live Training runs for 3 hours
- There is opportunity for Q&A with Michelle and Tony
- Downloadable Handouts to complement the course
- You may count 3 hours toward your CPD hours
- All attendees will be given access to the recording for 60 days after the event (accessed via the Member Dashboard). A once-off 30-day extension is available. See our FAQs for further information.
- Certificate of Attendance (upon request)
This live course counts for 3 hours of Continuing Professional Development or Teacher Accreditation hours. (For NSW Teachers: the course may be recorded as an elective PD with NESA).
Within 24 hours, you will receive an email with your login credentials for the new Member Dashboard. If you haven’t received these details after 48 hours, please email events@attwoodandgarnettevents.com
The email will come from events@attwoodandgarnettevents.com and may go to your junk/spam/promotions folders.
Alternatively, make newsletter@attwoodandgarnettevents.com a Contact in your email contact list to ensure that you do not miss anything from us.
Discounts/Cancellation/Refund Policy
Please Note: The quickest and easiest way to book is online.
Discount: If you are a full time student requiring a discount please enquire about our student rate and send in a photocopy of your student ID card or if you are facing hardship please email events@attwoodandgarnettevents.com to apply for a discount.
For Cancellations: Up to 7 days notice payment will be refunded, minus a $50 administrative fee. At less than 7 days notice there will be no refund, but a credit note with Attwood and Garnett Events for future events, minus $50, will be issued. Attendance is fully transferable.
