The Pilot Club of Great Bend invites you to get inspired, excited, and motivated at the 4th Autism Workshop “Sensory and Play: Understanding Autism and Other Neurodivergent Conditions,” on Sept. 12, at Barton Community College. The featured speaker is autistic professional Amy Nelson, self-described “quirky kid,” play therapist, early childhood clinical social worker, and award winning author of “Every Bunny Can Learn: A Tail of Inclusion,” which received first place in Disability Awareness in the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards.
Nelson champions neurodiversity and inclusion with expertise and authenticity. Her presentations are dynamic and inspirational to both educators, families, and caregivers. Her mainstage speech is “Kaleidoscope Kids: Honoring the Rhythm of Neurodivergent Play.” She invites us to see neurodivergent children through a different lens and views repetitive play, patterns, and sensory rituals as messages to be honored, not behaviors to be banished. She believes classrooms can be transformed with compassion, connection, and joy.
Nelson will have two breakout sessions entitled “Sensory Smart! Exploring the 4 Sensory Processing Patterns.” Participants will learn that everyone is a sensory being, however we process that information. Learning Dunn’s sensory processing model, and exploring the four unique sensory profiles, those taking part will learn strategies to adapt the environment to support everyday learning and participation for those with sensory needs.
As the founder of Emotional Milestones, Nelson will inspire and motivate professionals and caring individuals to “LEAN IN” and embrace learning and thinking differences. One may go to emotionalmilestones.com for more information and testimonials.
Registration is open at greatbendpilotclub.com and gbpc.autismworkshop@gmail.com.