Training in Autism - what to look for?

Autism training

Someone asked me today when they are looking for autism training for their staff team (in a residential care setting), what are the most important things to include.

I was caught off guard slightly but after a while, I put this short list together – what else would you add?

• The ability of the trainer to relate to the working context of those receiving the training is important (i.e. in this instance some insight into working in a residential care setting).

• The ability (time and interaction) to allow the team to relate theory into practice in context of the autistic people they support. This is why face to face is so much more effective than on-line training.

• Up to date autism knowledge based on the real experiences of autistic people.

• Recognition that understanding of autism evolves. What we know as ‘facts’ today may become the myths of tomorrow.

• Avoid a focus on ‘behaviour’ but helping the team understand how different brains work and this can impact on how people react.

• Explaining that differences in sensory processing and sensitivities are unique and almost certainly more powerful than you can imagine.

• Knowledge of autism in the context of neurodiversity and the positive framework this provides.

• Leave the team with a thirst for more knowledge and direct them to reliable and engaging sources of further learning. For many this may be TV, film, social media rather than reading books or articles.

I will probably think of 20 more things to add to this list by tomorrow – all suggestions welcome.

Thought of some? Send them here.