This workshop aims to give teacher an overview of the complex array of cognitive skills and abilities needed for a student to participate in the social world and practical and evidence based strategies for teachers working with students of all abilities, including those with less verbal output to support their social development in school settings.

Educators who attend the workshop will leave with the:

• Awareness of what ‘social skills’ are required for learners to participate in the social world
• Awareness of the key cognitive skills that are required for effective social functioning
• Review methods to assess social function in students
• Review evidence based strategies to support students to increase their social participation

About the presenters:

Lauren is a Speech Pathologist who has been working with students with ASD and other developmental disabilities for 10 years. She currently specialises in assessing and providing intervention for clients with social skill challenges in her role at Rocky Bay and provides a range of behavioural and cognitive behavioural intervention methods. Lauren is passionate about all students being given support to learn more about the social mind.

Katiane is a Speech Pathologist who has been working with young children with ASD and other developmental disabilities for 8 years. She currently specialises in assessing and providing intervention for children in their early years to assist their development and promoting a successful transition to school. Katiane is also responsible for ensuring the best outcomes for Rocky Bay customers when they access the humanoid robot (Milo), a tool that supports social skills development.