Talk Description
The Australian Childhood Foundation and Therapy Focus are undertaking a project in Western Australia to co-develop and pilot new training and resources for caregivers, teachers and community workers to better understand and respond to the interface of trauma and Autism.
Autism and trauma often co-occur, yet this intersection remains poorly understood. Autistic children experience more adverse childhood experiences than neurotypical peers and are vulnerable to interpersonal trauma, exploitation, bullying. They face increased challenges at school and are statistically more likely to be in out-of-home care. Identifying signs/symptoms of developmental trauma in autistic children is challenging as they may overlap and mirror characteristics. Critical gaps include a lack of integrated screening, limited awareness and training of professionals, inconsistent use of trauma-responses.
The project brings together trauma-transformative and neuroaffirming expertise to create resources that support safer, validating environments and richer connections for autistic children and young people.
The project involves three stages:
- Benchmarking – including a literature review of existing/ emerging evidence and direct engagement with autistic young people, caregivers, and professionals to gain firsthand insights.
- Prototyping of learning content- including practice guidance and training resources for professionals and downloadable resources for caregivers.
- Delivery of pilot training - to schools and Out of Home Care settings.
This session will present the insights, video bites, and findings from the project; and a preview of the new resources that are being created.