November 5, 2024 Autism Online Conference

Our FREE conference is open to all educators, administrators, paraprofessionals, service providers, families, caregivers, students, and individuals with autism.

Certificates of Attendance:

A certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees. Attendance is usually verified within 72 hours of the event and surveys are sent to all attendees. A certificate of attendance is generated automatically upon completion of the surveys.

Continuing Education Information:

We are offering Continuing Teacher & Leader Education hours (CTLEs) for this conference. Eligibility is verified after review of system generated attendance reports as well as poll data.

Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLEs):

SUNY Old Westbury is recognized by the New York State Education Department's Office of Teaching Initiatives as an approved provider of CTLE for Professional Classroom Teachers, School Leaders and Level III Teaching Assistants. A total of up to 5.25 CTLE hours are available for this conference. The total fee for CTLEs is $2.50 per session and is payable at time of registration.

NO OTHER CEUs being offered at this conference.

Registration Reminders:

Select the sessions you would like to attend from the drop-down menus when registering.

Confirmation emails are sent automatically after registration. Please allow 24 hours to receive your confirmation. If you do not see the email in your inbox, please check your spam folder. Contact us at autism@oldwestbury.edu with any questions.

Use the same first and last name and email address as your registration when logging onto Zoom for attendance purposes.

October 23, 2024 Webinar: Unlocking Potential: Essential Insights for Families of Children with Autism

This presentation is designed to empower families with a foundational understanding of autism, covering key facts about its characteristics, diagnosis, and diverse presentations. We'll explore the most common challenges children with autism face and highlight practical strategies to help parents and caregivers support their child's development. From building effective communication skills to creating a structured environment, this session will provide actionable insights to help families navigate the complexities of autism with confidence and compassion. Parents will learn how to create and foster a positive, nurturing home environment.

Certificate of Attendance

A certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees. Attendance is usually verified within 72 hours of the event and surveys are sent to all attendees. A certificate of attendance is generated automatically upon completion of the surveys.

No CEUs will be offered for this webinar.

Meet our Speaker, Donna Thiele, Psy.D., LBA, BCBA-D

Dr. Thiele is a highly accomplished psychologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D) with licensure as a behavior analyst. Her extensive training includes specializations in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She has a strong focus on treating individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), anxiety, and challenging behaviors, as well as supporting families, parents, and caregivers affected by disabilities and behavioral challenges. Dr. Thiele also has expertise in working with adults with developmental disabilities

Dr. Thiele earned her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University, specializing in developmental disabilities. She completed her internship and subsequent training at the May Institute in Massachusetts, where she provided in-home ABA services and consulted with schools and families to support children with autism, behavioral challenges, and special needs.

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Thiele has consulted with children, families, and school systems across Long Island and now operates a full-time private practice in Holbrook, New York. She is known for her “user-friendly” approach to therapy, effectively bridging research with practical, accessible strategies for children, families, and adults.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Thiele is an adjunct professor of ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis at St. Joseph's University and is actively involved in professional organizations related to behavior analysis, developmental disabilities, and psychology. She is also a dedicated mother of two, an active community member, and a passionate advocate for animal rescue organizations.

September 16, 2024 Webinar: From Setup to Success: Classrooms for Students with Autism

Creating an effective learning environment for students with autism requires thoughtful planning and a deep understanding of their unique needs. This presentation provides educators with practical strategies for setting up a classroom that fosters learning, comfort, and growth. We’ll explore the importance of establishing predictable routines, arranging the environment to minimize distractions and support focus, addressing sensory needs through thoughtful design, and implementing effective behavior management systems. Additionally, we’ll cover key considerations to ensure all students feel safe, supported, and empowered to succeed. Whether you’re new to teaching students with autism or looking to refine your approach, this session offers essential insights and actionable tips to create an inclusive, effective classroom.

Certificate of Attendance

A certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees. Attendance is usually verified within 72 hours of the event and surveys are sent to all attendees. A certificate of attendance is generated automatically upon completion of the surveys.

No CEUs will be offered for this webinar.

Meet our Speaker, Donna Thiele, Psy.D., LBA, BCBA-D

Dr. Thiele is a highly accomplished psychologist and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D) with licensure as a behavior analyst. Her extensive training includes specializations in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). She has a strong focus on treating individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), anxiety, and challenging behaviors, as well as supporting families, parents, and caregivers affected by disabilities and behavioral challenges. Dr. Thiele also has expertise in working with adults with developmental disabilities

Dr. Thiele earned her doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University, specializing in developmental disabilities. She completed her internship and subsequent training at the May Institute in Massachusetts, where she provided in-home ABA services and consulted with schools and families to support children with autism, behavioral challenges, and special needs.

With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Thiele has consulted with children, families, and school systems across Long Island and now operates a full-time private practice in Holbrook, New York. She is known for her “user-friendly” approach to therapy, effectively bridging research with practical, accessible strategies for children, families, and adults.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Thiele is an adjunct professor of ethics in Applied Behavior Analysis at St. Joseph's University and is actively involved in professional organizations related to behavior analysis, developmental disabilities, and psychology. She is also a dedicated mother of two, an active community member, and a passionate advocate for animal rescue organizations.

Safety Awareness Training for Parents, Caregivers & Educators of Individuals with Autism

May 22, 2024 12:00pm-1:15pm EST on ZOOM Webinar

This free webinar is open to all but is targeted to parents, caregivers, educators and other school personnel who work with children with autism.

Certificates of Attendance:

A certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees. Attendance is usually verified within 72 hours of the event and surveys are sent to all attendees. A certificate of attendance is generated automatically upon completion of the surveys.

No CEUs are offered for this training.

Classroom-Based Toilet Training: Why? When? How?

May 20, 2024 2:30pm-3:30pm EST on ZOOM Webinar

This free webinar is open to all but is targeted to paraprofessionals and other personnel who work with children with autism in the school-based setting.

Certificates of Attendance:

A certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees. Attendance is usually verified within 72 hours of the event and surveys are sent to all attendees. A certificate of attendance is generated automatically upon completion of the surveys.

No CEUs are offered for this training.

Meet Our Guest Speaker:

Dr. Rachel Cagliani, PhD, BCBA-D is a professor at the University of Georgia. Before completing her doctoral training, she was a Georgia public-school teacher and taught across the continuum of services. Dr. Cagliani teaches coursework in special education and applied behavior analysis at the undergraduate and graduate level. Dr. Cagliani’s research addresses the educational needs and independent living skills of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Dr. Cagliani has years of experiences consulting in P-12 classrooms and conducting toilet training in a variety of settings (e.g., classroom, via Telehealth, summer camp).

May 10, 2024 Autism Online Conference

Teaching to Successful Outcomes: Supporting Children with Autism in the Home, School and Community

Join us on May 10th for our free autism conference on Zoom. Open to all families, educators, administrators, paraprofessionals, related service providers, caregivers, students, and individuals with autism.

Certificates of Attendance:

A certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees. Attendance is usually verified within 72 hours of the event and surveys are sent to all attendees. A certificate of attendance is generated automatically upon completion of the surveys.

Continuing Education Information:

We are offering CEUs (for BACBs only) and Continuing Teacher & Leader Education hours (CTLEs) for this conference. Eligibility is verified after review of system generated attendance reports as well as poll data.

Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLEs):

SUNY Old Westbury is recognized by the New York State Education Department's Office of Teaching Initiatives as an approved provider of CTLE for Professional Classroom Teachers, School Leaders and Level III Teaching Assistants. A total of up to 5.25 CTLE hours are available for this conference. The total fee for CTLEs is $2.50 per session and is payable at time of registration.

Behavior Analyst Certification Board:

SUNY Old Westbury is recognized as an approved provider of BACB CEUs. The cost is $10 per credit payable at the time of registration. Up to 4.5 credits are available for this conference. BACB CEUs are offered for the following sessions:

• Session 2: Supporting Students with Co-occurring Mental Health and ASD ($15, 1.5 credits)

• Session 3: Practical Behavioral Strategies for Home & School ($15, 1.5 credits).

• Session 4: Prevention, Assessment and Treatment of Elopement: Tips & Considerations ($15, 1.5 credits)

NO OTHER CEUs being offered at this conference.

Registration Reminders:

Select the sessions you would like to attend from the drop-down menus when registering.

Use the same first and last name and email address when logging onto Zoom for attendance purposes.

First Responders Disability Awareness Training

Law Enforcement - April 9th 12:00pm-3:00pm EST

911 Telecommunicators - April 18th 12:00pm-3:00pm EST (PLEASE NOTE DATE CHANGE FROM APRIL 11th)

Niagara University First Responders Disability Awareness Training

This training, presented by Niagara University DAT, will cover the NYS recognized DAT with an emphasis on autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Niagara University specializes in training law enforcement, emergency responders, human service providers, public, private, and school transportation, corporations and businesses, places of worship, and educators. The training is designed to both sensitize and educate the audience on all aspects of disabilities including, but not limited to, definitions of disabilities, etiquette and interaction skills, stigma and misperceptions, proactive approaches to community inclusion and integration, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and overcoming barriers through advocacy. Specific topic areas include emotional disturbance/mental health awareness and responsiveness, developmental disabilities, co-morbidities and dual diagnosis, and pertinent legislation.

Special Guest Speaker Steven Siena, J.D.

Additionally, Steven Siena, J.D. will share his unique perspective as a law enforcement officer for 35 years and a parent of a child with autism. Steve Siena is educated as an attorney and was admitted to the New York State Bar in 1984.  He began his career as an Assistant District Attorney, but later joined the Monroe County Sheriff's Office, and over the next twenty-five years advanced through the ranks until his retirement at the rank of Patrol Captain.  His education and experience made him a valuable member of the Rochester Institute of Technology's Department of Criminal Justice, where he served as an Adjunct Professor.  He then moved to Long Island and joined the SUNY Old Westbury University Police Department in 2013 as the Deputy Chief, and retired last year as the Chief of Police.  During his tenure he completed the process of revising the department's policies and procedures, and served as the President of the New York State University Police Chiefs' Association.  He and his wife now reside in the Raleigh area of North Carolina, where he is an advocate on issues related to autism and intellectual disabilities.

LEGO & LEARN EVENT:

April 6, 2024

10:30am - 11:20am timeslot Elementary Age

11:30am - 12:30pm timeslot Secondary Age

Join fellow LEGO fans for this sensory-sensitive event, specially designed for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents or caregivers. Get inspired, build and play with LEGO bricks in a welcoming, safe and understanding environment. 

Parent Q&A session with an autism expert will be offered concurrently.

Location:

Bricks & Minifigs 709 Montauk Highway, West Babylon, NY 11704

Important Info:

Registration is FREE but is required for admission.

Space is limited; One parent per child. This is not a drop-off event.

LEGO & LEARN EVENTS:

March 16, 2024 & April 6, 2024 (Please choose one date and session)

10:30am - 11:20am timeslot K-4th Grade

11:30am - 12:30pm timeslot 5th - 12th Grade

Join fellow LEGO fans for this sensory-sensitive event, specially designed for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents or caregivers. Get inspired, build and play with LEGO bricks in a welcoming, safe and understanding environment. 

Parent Q&A session with an autism expert will be offered concurrently.

Location:

Bricks & Minifigs 709 Montauk Highway, West Babylon, NY 11704

Important Info:

Registration is FREE but is required for admission.

Space is limited; One parent per child - no siblings. This is not a drop-off event.

November 7, 2023 Autism Conference

Teaching to Success Outcomes: Supporting Children with Autism in the Home, School and Community

Please join us on November 7th for our free autism conference on Zoom. Open to all -families, educators, administrators, paraprofessionals, related service providers, caregivers and individuals with autism.

Certificates of Attendance:

A certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees. Attendance is usually verified within 72 hours of the event and surveys are sent to all attendees. A certificate of attendance is generated automatically upon completion of the surveys.

Continuing Education Information:

We are offering CEUs (for BACBs only) and CTLEs for this conference. Eligibility is verified after review of system generated attendance reports as well as poll data.

Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLEs):

SUNY Old Westbury is recognized by the New York State Education Department's Office of Teaching Initiatives as an approved provider of CTLE for Professional Classroom Teachers, School Leaders and Level III Teaching Assistants. A total of up to 5.25 CTLE hours are available for this conference. The total fee for CTLEs is $10 and is payable at time of registration.

Behavior Analyst Certification Board:

SUNY Old Westbury is recognized as an approved provider of BACB CEUs. The cost is $10 per credit payable at the time of registration. Up to 3 credits are available for this conference. BACB CEUs are offered for the following sessions:

• Session 1: Strategies to Address Challenging Behaviors Exhibited by Children on the Autism Spectrum ($15, 1.5 credits)

• Session 2: Paraprofessional Training - Unlocking Autonomy: Using Your Role as a Classroom Support to Build Independence for Students on the Autism Spectrum ($15, 1.5 credits).

There are no other CEUs being offered at this conference.

Registration Reminders:

Select the sessions you would like to attend from the drop-down menus when registering.

Use the same first and last name and email address when logging onto Zoom for attendance purposes.

FREE Autism Friendly Fall Fun Day at the Long Island Children’s Museum

Registration is required. All members of your party must be registered for free admittance to the museum between 10:00am - 2:00pm. Space is limited, so register today!

Fall crafts will take place between 1:00pm-2:00pm in the cafeteria.

Costumes are optional.

Please remember to bring your ticket (attached to the confirmation email) for admittance to the museum.

Join Us for a Mini-Conference at the Long Island Children’s Museum

Roots & Wings: Transition Planning for a Self Determined Life

Bringing Together Individuals with Special Needs and Their Caregivers for a Day of Fun and Learning

Long Island Children’s Museum
11 Davis Avenue
Garden City, New York 11530

Agenda (Sessions in LICM Theater)

10:00am-10:15am - Opening Remarks

10:15am -11:00am - Self Advocates - Roots & Wings: Balancing Risk with Opportunities for Growth from Adolescence to Adulthood

11:15am-12:00pm - Parents & Caregivers - Success in Self Direction: Recruitment, Retention, and Resource Management

12:00pm-12:45pm - Direct Service Providers- DSPs Unite! Empowering Direct Support Professionals

12:45pm-1:00pm Closing Remarks

1:00pm-2:00pm Refreshments & Networking Event (LICM Cafeteria)

Registration Fee:
$10 per person; Includes admittance to the museum. All attendees (including children) must be registered separately for admittance to the museum.

Target audience:
Individuals with autism or other special needs, direct service providers, family/caregivers and professionals involved in transition and/or self-directed services. Appropriate for middle & high school families interested in planning for their child’s future.

Parents may find the information provided in the other sessions useful and are welcome to attend any of the sessions.

Objectives:

• To provide information & practical resources on transition planning and self-directed services for individuals with special needs.

• To provide Direct Service Professionals and caregivers opportunities for structure, professional development and collegiality.

• To restore vision and optimism to self-direction by focusing on person first outcomes, leadership, alliance, supervision, and support for all involved.

Certificate of Attendance:
After the event a survey will be emailed to attendees and upon completion, a certificate of attendance will be issued. No CEUs are offered for this event.

May 5, 2023 Autism Conference

Teaching to Success Outcomes: Supporting Children with Autism in the Home, School and Community

Please join us on May 5th for our free autism conference on Zoom. Open to all -families, educators, administrators, paraprofessionals, related service providers, caregivers and individuals with autism.

Certificates of Attendance:

A certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees. Attendance is usually verified within 72 hours of the event and surveys are sent to all attendees. A certificate of attendance is generated automatically upon completion of the surveys.

Continuing Education Information:

We are offering CEUs (for BACBs only) and CTLEs for this conference. Eligibility is verified after review of system generated attendance reports as well as poll data.

Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLEs):

SUNY Old Westbury is recognized by the New York State Education Department's Office of Teaching Initiatives as an approved provider of CTLE for Professional Classroom Teachers, School Leaders and Level III Teaching Assistants. A total of up to 6.5 CTLE hours are available for this conference. The total fee for CTLEs is $10 and is payable at time of registration.

Behavior Analyst Certification Board:

SUNY Old Westbury is recognized as an approved provider of BACB CEUs. The cost is $10 per credit payable at the time of registration. Up to 6 credits are available for this conference. BACB CEUs are offered for the following sessions:

• Session 1: You’re Going to Love this Kid! Supporting Students with Autism in the Inclusive Classroom ($15, 1.5 credits)

• Session 3: Teaching Emotional Awareness and Regulation Strategies to Children with Autism, ($15, 1.5 credits)

• Session 4: Support for Challenges with Feeding and Toileting: From Assessment to Intervention ($15, 1.5 credits)

• Session 5: Rest Assured: Solutions for Childhood Sleep Problems ($15, 1.5 credits).

There are no other CEUs being offered at this conference.

Registration Reminders:

Select the sessions you would like to attend from the drop-down menus when registering.

Use the same first and last name and email address when logging onto Zoom for attendance purposes.

April 20, 2023 Webinar - Coming to the Table - CSE Tips for Educators and Families of Children with Autism

This free webinar will address tips for educators and families to prepare for and enhance the Committee on Special Education (CSE) meeting process for students with autism.  The webinar will address developing supportive Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with autism and tips for holding student-focused and family-friendly meetings.  It will also provide concrete steps for families to prepare for CSE meetings and address some common misperceptions about the CSE process.

Certificate of Attendance:

All attendees are asked to complete an evaluation after the webinar and will receive a certificate of attendance.

Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLEs):

SUNY Old Westbury is recognized by the New York State Education Department's Office of Teaching Initiatives as an approved provider of CTLE for Professional Classroom Teachers, School Leaders and Level III Teaching Assistants. At total of 1.25 CTLE hours are available for this webinar. The total administration fee for CTLEs is $10 and is payable at time of registration.

There are no other CEUs being offered at this webinar.

Preparing Children With Autism for Successful Dental Visits

Presenters: Robert H. Schindel, D.D.S., A.B.O.;  Nicole Weidenbaum, M.S. Ed., SAS;  & Michelle Banville, M.S., Ed., BCBA, LBA 

Session Description:

Many children exhibit fear and hesitation about visits to the dentist. For children with ASD, a trip to the dentist can present unique sensory challenges. This webinar will provide strategies to ease the anxiety and encourage proactive approaches that promote successful dental visits. Ms. Weidenbaum and Dr. Schindel have collaborated over many years in the dental treatment of children with ASD. Together with their colleague, Ms. Banville, they will discuss how to approach the dental treatment of children with ASD from an educational, clinical and research perspective.

Certificate of Attendance:

A general certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees.

No other CEUs will be offered for this webinar.

Playdates, Hangouts, and Get-Togethers: How to Maximize the Benefits, and Minimize the Challenges

Presenter: Donna Thiele, Psy.D., LBA, BCBA-D

This webinar will provide an overview of the importance of playdates to help support the social development of children with autism and related disabilities as well as practical strategies to create and maintain successful playdates. It will address common barriers to successful playdates and solutions for these challenges, and steps to manage child, peer, and parental expectations during playdates. This webinar is open to all (targeted to caregivers, educators & related service providers). Visit our website for session objectives and further information.

Objectives:

Participants will be able to:

• Understand the rationale behind having playdates and the changing nature of socialization.

• Use proactive strategies and environmental design as antecedent strategies to increase playdate success.

• Identify critical skills necessary for successful playdates and learn how to use Behavioral Skills Training (BST) to increase child skills that helps to ensure playdate success.

• Identify potential barriers to successful playdates and strategies to mediate the difficulties.

• Understand sources of parent stress during playdates and identify strategies to manage expectations for children, their peers, and parents.

Speaker Bio:

Dr. Thiele is a psychologist, board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA-D), and licensed behavior analyst. Her training includes specializations in applied behavior analysis (ABA), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). She specializes in treating those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, anxiety, and challenging behavior. She also provides therapy for parents and caregivers affected by disabilities and behavioral challenges and adults with developmental disabilities struggling with issues of adulthood. Dr. Thiele graduated with a doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Long Island University with a specialization in developmental disabilities. She interned and later trained at the May Institute in Massachusetts where she provided in-home applied behavior analytic services and school and home consultation to children with autism, children with behavioral challenges, and families of children with special needs. Dr. Thiele has presented on topics of psychology, applied behavior analysis and autism at local, state, and national conferences. She has consulted with children, families, and school systems throughout Long Island for over 20 years. She takes a “user-friendly” approach to therapy, seeking to bridge research with practices that are viable for children, families, and adults. Dr. Thiele is an adjunct professor of ethics in applied behavior analysis at St. Joseph's College and is active in professional organizations within the areas of behavior analysis, developmental disabilities, and psychology. Dr. Thiele is a member-at-large for Suffolk County Psychological Association and chairs the committees of Independent Practice and Professional and Public Outreach. She is a mother of two children and is active in her community and animal rescue organizations.

Certificate of Attendance:

A general certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees.

Continuing Education Information:

RCASD at SUNY Old Westbury is an approved provider for the following continuing education credits:

Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) CEUs - This webinar is eligible for 1.5 BACB CEUs with a $15 processing fee. 

Continuing Teacher and Leader Education Credits (CTLEs) - This webinar is eligible for 1.25 CTLE hours with a $10 processing fee. 

No other CEUs are offered for this conference.

Reinforcement, Bribery, or Negotiation – the Tools that can Make or Break Your Behavior Plans

Speaker: Sasha Long, M.A., BCBA, Founder & President of The Autism Helper

Session Description:

A key component to all behavior management strategies is the effective use of reinforcement. In this webinar, participants will learn how to correctly utilize reinforcement. We breakdown how making simple changes to the way you are approaching challenging behaviors can make a huge impact in teaching positive, prosocial, communicative behaviors. Participants will walk away with a clear understanding of the difference between reinforcement and bribery as well as the knowledge of how to ensure their behavior plans are set up correctly.

Session Objectives:

Participants will be able to:

• define and discriminate between bribery and reinforcement.

• identify common missteps of reinforcement and how to remedy those situations.

• apply concepts of reinforcement to effectively increase positive behaviors.

Speaker Bio:

Ms. Long is the founder and president of The Autism Helper, Inc. She is a board certified behavior analyst and former special education teacher. Sasha works as a consultant, writer, and behavior analyst. She created The Autism Helper Blog, as a way to share easy to use and ready to implement strategies and ideas. Sasha also travels internationally as a speaker and consultant providing individualized training and feedback to parents, educators, therapists and administrators in the world of autism. She is an adjunct professor in the school of Applied Behavior Analysis at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Sasha received her undergraduate degree in Special Education from Miami University and has a Masters Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

Certificate of Attendance:

A general certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees.

Continuing Education Information:

RCASD at SUNY Old Westbury is an approved provider for the following continuing education credits:

Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) CEUs - This webinar is eligible for 1.5 BACB CEUs with a $15 processing fee. 

Continuing Teacher and Leader Education Credits (CTLEs) - This webinar is eligible for 1.25 CTLE hours with a $10 processing fee. 

No other CEUs are offered for this conference.

November 8, 2022 Autism Conference Details