For Parents

Supporting Autistic Learners and Autism and Communication

About this course

Supporting Autistic Learners
This session explores how autistic children experience and make sense of the world. It takes a strengths-based approach, recognising autism as a different way of thinking and learning rather than a deficit to be fixed.
We will look at why many autistic children benefit from visual supports and how these can help with understanding, communication, independence, and emotional wellbeing at home, in school, and in the community.

Parents will learn:

  • Why visual supports often work well for autistic children.
  • How visuals can reduce anxiety and make every day routines more predictable.
  • Practical ways to use visual supports to encourage communication, independence, and confidence.
  • How to choose strategies that reflect their child’s unique strengths, interests, and needs.

Autism and Communication
This session explores communication from a neurodiversity-affirming perspective. Rather than viewing autistic communication as a problem, we will consider how communication differences arise between autistic and non-autistic people and how understanding both perspectives can improve connection and reduce misunderstandings.
Parents will learn:

  • How autistic children may communicate, understand language, and process information differently.
  • Why misunderstandings can happen between autistic and non-autistic people.
  • How to adapt their communication to make conversations clearer and more supportive.
  • Practical strategies to help their child express themselves and feel understood.
  • Ways to support communication during daily activities, social situations, and times of change.

This session focuses on building understanding, strengthening relationships, and supporting autistic children to thrive as their authentic selves.

Location

St Paul's Primary and Nursery School, Slievemore, 1 Moss Road , Galliagh , Londonderry/Derry , BT48 8QZ

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About the trainer

Gemma O'Neill

Gemma O'Neill

Gemma O’Neill is an Autism Trainer/Advisor at Middletown Centre for Autism, bringing over 20 years of experience across education, autism practice and professional learning. Her career has included roles as a SENCO and Specialist Teacher, supporting autistic children and young people across educational settings, including preschool, mainstream primary and post-primary schools, autism classes and special schools.

Gemma has extensive experience working collaboratively with educators, families and multidisciplinary professionals to develop individualised approaches that recognise autistic strengths, differences and support needs across school and home environments.

In her current role, Gemma is involved in the development and delivery of autism-specific professional learning and training across Ireland, working with educators and professionals, including within higher education. She also contributes to the development of training programmes and the coordination of large-scale professional learning events, bringing professionals together to share and showcase effective practice.

Gemma holds a Master’s Degree in Special Educational from Queen’s University Belfast. Her professional interests include neuroaffirming autism practice, inclusive education, professional learning, and supporting autistic learners to participate meaningfully in education.