Free online seminar to help with behaviors in autistic children

During an interview for this column, Dr. Bridget Taylor, founder of Alpine Learning Group shared her philosophy about facing problem behaviors in autistic children. "It is important to be pro-active not reactive" urged Dr.Taylor. She stressed that it is vital to understand the behavior, thereby strengthening the relationship with the child. Now parents will have an opportunity to receive guidance from Dr. Taylor. She will conduct a free webinar sponsored by RethinkAutism, a web based autism treatment platform.

Dr. Taylor shared a example of cause and effect. She punctuated the need for a vision beyond the "knee jerk" reaction. A student at Alpine forgot his pencils in the car. His internal anxiety was heightened and even though he was given permission to get the pencils, he exploded when intercepted by someone simply saying hello. The person greeting him was unaware of the prior scenario regarding the pencils.The lesson learned was to make it a point to look beyond the event and investigate the trigger. "There are ways to modify environment", said Dr.Taylor . She recommended that behaviors must be investigated, considering all avenues including sensory, anxiety, and even quests for negative attention.

Bridget Taylor suggested that when a child is nonverbal, there are opportunities to use pictures with basic information that will diffuse outbursts that might be generated by a multitude of catalysts. It will teach children how to ask for help, as well as invite parents to communicate differently.  It is important to recognize patterns in behaviors as well. Her message is that behaviors are often stimulated by environment and it is important to recognize this and consequently think differently about the approach. Dr. Taylor considers this effort to be forward thinking,or rethinking autism.

Parents of older autistic children are pioneers. Years ago, there were few opportunities to share information and learn about methods of therapy. Now, with the advantage of online learning this is an invaluable way to receive guidance from an expert in the field of autism. This interactive webinar featuring Bridget Taylor is scheduled for Wed, Oct. 21 from 12 pm to 1 pm and Mon. Oct 26 from 7 pm to 8 pm. Click here and view the video demonstration of behavior therapy. (Click on Managing Problem Behavior at Home w/ Dr. Bridget Taylor and register for the online webinar)