Autism expert coming to Maitland on 2 March

CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning in partnership with Federation of Parents and Friends Associations in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is bringing the renowned autism guru, Dr Tony Attwood, to Maitland.

On Friday 2 March, Dr Attwood will present on two topics – the first in a morning session and the second ini an afternoon session. The topics are:

  • Making Friends: Strategies to improve social understanding and friendship skills
  • The latest research in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

In addition to offering insight and information, Dr Attwood will also be available to answer questions at both these sessions.

"I'm looking forward to sharing my experiences in Autism Spectrum Disorders with the people of the Hunter region and being able to connect with them on a personal level," Dr Attwood said.

Registrations are open to parents, carers of students and staff from Catholic schools in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle as well as to parents, carers and clients of CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning and their families.

Director of CatholicCare, Gary Christensen, said CatholicCare would be offering complementary registration to carers, parents and local teaching staff so – this so we can instil a greater understanding and awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder and consequently provide greater support to the ASD community.

"Having been interested in Autism Spectrum Disorders for nearly 50 years, I'm passionate about sharing my understanding and working with parents and professionals to help children and adults who have autism.

"In the last few years I have learned so much more about Asperger's syndrome, especially the value of special interests in the daily lives of those who have Asperger's syndrome, relationships where one partner has Asperger's syndrome and the characteristics of girls and women who have Asperger's syndrome."

The President of the Federation of P & F Associations, Giavanna Angeli, said the Federation and its Special Needs Working Party are excited to partner with CatholicCare - this to ensure we are able to provide information to families that is relevant and useful to them in their role as the primary educators of their children.

CatholicCare provides a thorough Autism Assessment Service for children, adolescents and adults utilising gold standard assessment tools.

Assessments for the Manning region can be booked by contacting CatholicCare on (02) 4979 1120 or emailing ccenquiries@catholiccare.org.au.

REGISTER FOR THE EVENT ASAP PLEASE

To avoid disappointment, please register for the event as soon as possible. Only those who register in advance will be able to attend.

When: Friday 2 March

Where: All Saints College, St Mary’s Campus, 16 Grant Street Maitland

Morning Session (9am - 12 noon)       

Making Friends: Strategies to improve social understanding and friendship skills.

Afternoon Session (1pm - 4pm)

Latest research in Autism Spectrum Sisorders (ASD).

Click here to register for the event.

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Lizzie Watkin Image
Lizzie Watkin

Lizzie is Team Leader Content for the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.