The concept of neurodiversity acknowledges the range of human brains and the unique methods by which individuals process information. According to Harvard Medical School, “neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways; there is no one ‘right’ way of thinking, learning and behaving, and differences are not viewed as deficits.” It is imperative to comprehend neurodiversity to establish a welcoming and inclusive environment that caters to individuals with varying cognitive abilities. To this end, TransCen has organized a three-part webinar series led by Deborah Hammer, an Autism and Low Incidence Specialist for Arlington County Public Schools, who will offer insights into neurodiversity, provide tactics to support neurodivergent students during their high school to adulthood transition, and recommend techniques for creating inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent individuals.
From High School to Workplace: Understanding How to Support Neurodivergent Individuals
By acknowledging and accommodating distinct cognitive abilities, we can empower everyone to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits. TransCen is dedicated to equipping participants with the requisite knowledge and tools to establish such an environment.
The three-part webinar series will cover the following topics:
- What is Neurodiversity?: Foundational Information for Everyone
- One Size Does Not Fit All: Successful Transition Planning for Neurodivergent Students
- Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace
After completing the series, participants will have a better understanding of neurodiversity and the tools to create inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals.
Session 1: What is Neurodiversity?: Foundational Information for Everyone
This session is designed for anyone who wants to learn more about neurodiversity, including teachers, parents, self-advocates, siblings, and anyone else who is interested. Participants will learn about the concept of neurodiversity, including the individual brain differences that make each person unique. The presenter will provide an overview of the types of neurodivergent brains, including those of people with autism, ADHD, and Tourette’s Syndrome, and discuss the advantages and challenges associated with being neurodivergent.
- Date: Wednesday, April 12, 2023
- Time: 1 pm - 2:30 pm ET
- To register for the webinar series or to learn more about the session, please visit our sign-up page.
Session 2: One Size Does Not Fit All: Successful Transition Planning for Neurodivergent Students
This session is designed for educators, parents, and service providers who work with neurodivergent youth. The session will provide tips for supporting neurodivergent youth as they transition from high school to adulthood. Participants will learn about person-centered planning, building both independence and interdependence and helping young adults become self-determined.
- Date: Wednesday, April 26, 2023
- Time: 1 pm - 2:30 pm ET
- To register for the webinar series or to learn more about the session, please visit our sign-up page.
Session 3: Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace
This session is designed for anyone interested in creating inclusive work environments for neurodivergent individuals. Participants will learn strategies for providing meaningful accommodations to support learning, social, and sensory needs for job seekers. The session will also cover how to create an inclusive work environment that supports the success of neurodivergent individuals.
- Date: Wednesday, May 3, 2023
- Time: 1 pm - 2:30 pm ET
- To register for the webinar series or to learn more about the session, please visit our sign-up page.
Who is Leading the Course?
Deborah Hammer, an Autism and Low Incidence Specialist for Arlington County Public Schools, will lead the course. She has worked for over two decades on behalf of individuals with disabilities and their families. She frequently presents at national and international conferences, including the Autism Society of America, the Council for Exceptional Children, and the National Autism Conference. She was the recipient of the Eileen Crawford Award for Educators in 2017 and has twice been a recipient of the Arc of Northern Virginia’s Educational Leadership Award. As co-chair of the Northern Virginia Transition Coalition, she helps organize Future Quest, a regional college and career fair for students with disabilities. She is also the founder and facilitator of a social club for young adults with autism and related disabilities, Cool Aspies, and an advisor to a student self-determination club.
We Look Forward to Seeing You There
Neurodiversity is an important concept to understand if we want to create inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals. TransCen is committed to providing participants with the knowledge and tools they need to create inclusive environments. Groups of 10 or more get 1 free registration, which can be done by emailing elearning@transcen.org. All webinars will be recorded for your convenience, allowing you to access them at your own pace and schedule. We look forward to equipping you with valuable insights and tools to create inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals. Sign up today!
