Howorth launches online social skills training for working with autistic teens, young adults
University of Maine assistant professor of special education Sarah Howorth, BCBA-D (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) is launching a new training module, “PEERS® Lab at UMaine: Friendship Skills Boot Camp,” as part of the Maine Autism Institute for Education and Research’s free professional development series. Friendship Skills Boot Camp is recommended for families and professionals who support teens and young adults with autism.
PEERS is an evidence-based social skills training for young people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, anxiety, depression and other socioemotional problems, developed by Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior at UCLA.
The UMaine PEERS lab is an online training module where Howorth, , works with participants on targeted social skill development through instructional and role-playing demonstrations and by providing opportunities to practice skills independently and within behavioral exercises.
Some of the topics covered in the module include finding friends, starting conversations, joining group conversations, and identifying the skills needed to carry on a conversation.
The training is available at no charge, but registration is required. Details and a link to the registration form are available on the Maine Autism Institute for Education and Research website.
Educators and other professionals who complete the module are eligible to receive 12 continuing education units toward ongoing professional development.
For more information, contact Howorth, sarah.howorth@maine.edu.