| Abstract: This panel will address specific and concrete interventions designed to promote independence in children with autism and related disabilities. Parents and educators in home-based programs are challenged to systematically achieve or maintain an individuals independence in a variety of home and community settings. As a result, many parents request further assistance in maintaining mastered skills or shaping their childs independence when trained staff is not working or when such services are unavailable. The panel will benefit parents and educators working with children where greater independence in the home and community is desired. A variety of interventions, beyond the basics, will be presented that address how to increase an individuals ability to independently engage in activities, display appropriate behavior in the supermarket, restaurant or similar settings, and to develop self-monitoring and other community-based skills. The panel will examine and discuss interventions that are feasible and achievable based on resources available to staff and family. Parents and professionals are encouraged to attend. Panelists will offer suggestions and the remainder of the time will be devoted to open discussion. |