Ignoring Training Requirements and Realities Will Undermine NB Autism Intervention Services

A Fredericton mother was heard on CBC info am a short while ago, once again expressing her opinion that overall the new NB  Autism intervention policy is good. She basically stated that 20 hours of treatment should mean 20 hours of treatment. Everybody agrees with that statement. Unfortunately the problem with the new policy isn't the 20 hour accountability policy. The underlying problem is the lack of anything in the policy to provide for properly trained personnel to provide the 20 hours in agencies around the PNB. Without proper training the treatment quality will diminish substantially and may even be counter productive.

The other problem with the policy is the lack of notice that was given to the agencies some of whom have indicated it will be very difficult and perhaps impossible to meet the new standards. Some agency employees have stated publicly that they will probably not be able to continue. The impact if agencies can't deliver under these conditions will be felt by children with autism disorders.

A parent has already commented on this blog that their child's appointment for intervention assessment has been postponed as a result of the changes and lack of notice. Everyone agrees that 20 hours should mean 20 hours but it will not be done by ignoring training requirements OR proper notice requirements for adjustments to be made.

NATTAP (Autism Networking) Conference September 26-28 2007 Columbus

The Network of Autism Training and Technical Assistance Programs (NATTAP) and the Autism Society of America present...

First Annual International NATTAP Conference

Hosted by the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence
September 26-28, 2007
Columbus Convention Center - Columbus, OH USA

This forum will provide opportunities for professionals and parents to address international, national, state, regional, and local issues concerning current models of systems, training and technical assistance, data-based decision making, and systems-wide capacity building, with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes for school-age children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Empirically-validated interventions will be reviewed. PBIS models across the nation will also be highlighted.Professionals from across disciplines; state special education directors and autism specialists; influential, prominent leaders including legislators; and leaders from across the world will join us as we create a conference atmosphere that encourages networking and an exchange of ideas that will launch a new foundation for programs and services for children with ASD.Conference features include:Review of the prevalence rates of autism spectrum disorders and implications for each state

Presentation of empirically validated programs and initiatives to build capacity and increase learner outcomes

Overview of national trends and services in the field of autism

Facilitated roundtable discussions across topics

Networking opportunities across states, disciplines, and professional levels

Distribution of Technical Assistance guide

Review of National Teacher Competencies in ASD

Content areas will include:

Positive Behavior Intervention Systems Models

A Review of Systems: National, Statewide and Regional

Comprehensive Programming Instructional Techniques and Strategies

Assessment and Identification

Overview of Research in ASD

Building Communities of Practice

Credentials, Standards and Related Issues

Family systems and needs

Early Intervention Models

Transition to Adulthood

Use of Technology and Assistive Technology

Higher Education

For more information, please visit: www.ocali.org/nattap2007

Or email: Dr. Brenda Smith Myles (Conference Chair) or Jill Hudson (Conference Coordinator) at nattap@ocali.org