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X-WR-CALNAME:Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopment
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261007T101500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261007T160000
DTSTAMP:20261001T155052Z
CREATED:20261001T155052Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261001T155052Z
UID:13266-1791368100-1791388800@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:2026 Thompson Center Parent Conference
DESCRIPTION:Parents\, grandparents\, and caregivers of individuals with autism are invited to attend a special one-day conference on Wednesday\, October 7\, 2026! Join us in St. Charles\, MO for expert-led sessions\, including insights from autistic advocates\, practical tools and resources\, and fellowship with others. Register now at https://tcautismconf.com/parent-day/ \nImmediately following the last session\, join us for the FREE Ask the Experts panel\, sponsored by the Thompson Foundation for Autism & Neurodevelopment! The Ask the Experts panel provides an opportunity for family members and professionals to ask questions and engage in conversation with a diverse panel of autism experts. Panelists represent multiple fields including medicine\, behavior analysis\, education\, occupational and speech therapy\, and psychology as well as an autistic individual and a parent of an individual with autism. RSVP for Ask the Experts at https://bit.ly/TCConfAskTheExperts
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/2026-thompson-center-parent-conference/
LOCATION:St. Charles Convention Center\, 1 Convention Center Plaza\, St. Charles\, MO\, 63303\, United States
CATEGORIES:Training
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261008T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261009T160000
DTSTAMP:20261001T155256Z
CREATED:20261001T155256Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20261001T155256Z
UID:13269-1791450000-1791561600@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:2026 Thompson Center Autism Conference (Professional)
DESCRIPTION:The Thompson Center Autism Conference brings together hundreds of attendees from across the country each year for a world‑class experience — amplifying the voices of self‑advocates\, sharing diverse lived experiences\, and sparking discoveries that support and empower individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions. Register now at: https://bit.ly/tcconfregister \nThis conference provides opportunities for continuing education credits from the American Psychological Association\, the Behavior Analyst Certification Board\, and the School of Medicine. Learn more about CEs and register for the CE package at: https://bit.ly/TCConfCEInfo \nThis conference provides education and professional development tailored towards individuals who support people with autism\, including educators\, psychologists\, speech-language pathologists\, medical professionals\, behavior analysts\, employment specialists\, vocational rehabilitation counselors\, service coordinators\, and advocates. \nFocused on discovery and learning\, the conference is committed to providing comprehensive\, up-to-date\, research-informed approaches to assessment\, intervention\, and supports across the lifespan. Attendees can engage with vendor and agency booths\, explore a student and trainee research poster session\, and learn from nationally recognized researchers\, self-advocates\, and practitioners in the field of autism.
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/2026-thompson-center-autism-conference-professional/
LOCATION:St. Charles Convention Center\, 1 Convention Center Plaza\, St. Charles\, MO\, 63303\, United States
CATEGORIES:Training
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2026-Autism-Conference-Event-Covers-2-Facebook-Event-Cover.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261021T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261021T163000
DTSTAMP:20260922T184752Z
CREATED:20260922T184752Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260922T184752Z
UID:13210-1792596600-1792600200@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:TEAM Webinar: Communication Series: Play #1: The Foundations of Play
DESCRIPTION:Play is one of the primary ways young children learn\, communicate\, and develop relationships. This webinar will review the developmental progression of play while exploring factors that influence play skills\, including communication\, sensory processing\, motor abilities\, attention\, and social engagement. Participants will learn how to identify barriers to play\, recognize opportunities for intervention\, and use evidence-based strategies to promote meaningful play across natural environments.  \nPresented by Michelle Dampf\, MA\, CCC-SLP\, this webinar is designed for early intervention providers\, speech-language pathologists\, occupational therapists\, physical therapists\, educators\, preschool staff\, psychologists\, developmental specialists\, and other professionals working with infants\, toddlers\, and preschool-aged children.  \nPlease register in advance at: https://umsystem.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_argtSy6aTzqPLe8PxTpHoQ
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/team-webinar-communication-series-play-1-the-foundations-of-play/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261028T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261028T163000
DTSTAMP:20260923T172917Z
CREATED:20260923T172400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T172917Z
UID:13229-1793201400-1793205000@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:TEAM Webinar: Educator Series: The Neurodiversity-Affirming IEP: Writing Goals That Support Meaningful Outcomes
DESCRIPTION:Traditional IEP goals have often focused on reducing autistic traits or increasing compliance. This session explores how to develop neurodiversity-affirming goals that support communication\, self-advocacy\, independence\, participation\, and quality of life. Participants will learn practical strategies for writing strengths-based goals and creating supportive environments that help students succeed while honoring their unique neurodevelopmental profiles.    \nPresented by Tara DeVore\, M.Ed\, this webinar is designed for educators\, paraprofessionals\, and others working with young students with autism. \nPlease register in advance at: https://umsystem.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3_hCNZqiTJOUaemIKMbFaw
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/team-webinar-educator-series-the-neurodiversity-affirming-iep-writing-goals-that-support-meaningful-outcomes/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261104T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261104T130000
DTSTAMP:20260824T154632Z
CREATED:20260409T214821Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T154632Z
UID:12869-1793791800-1793797200@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:Next Steps Workshop - In Person
DESCRIPTION:A new diagnosis of autism can be overwhelming and we are here to help. This is a free workshop for caregivers of children recently diagnosed with autism or other neurodevelopmental disorders. \nIn this group\, you will learn about: \n\nWhat autism is and common co-occurring conditions\nRecognizing your child’s strengths\nBehavior tips & tricks\nNavigating schools and knowing your rights\nConnecting with support services.\n\nThis group is held on the first Wednesday of every month. Register below and select the date and time that works best for your family. After registering\, you will receive a calendar invitation. \nREGISTER HERE \nOpen to all families. Your child does not need to have received their diagnosis from the Thompson Center to attend this workshop.
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/next-steps-workshop-virtual-3/
LOCATION:Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment\, 701 Veterans United Drive\, Columbia\, MO\, 65201\, United States
CATEGORIES:Training
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/next-steps-banner-01-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261104T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261104T163000
DTSTAMP:20260923T171635Z
CREATED:20260923T171635Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T171635Z
UID:13221-1793806200-1793809800@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:TEAM Webinar: Transition Series: Supporting Autistic Youth and Teens Toward Independence and Advocacy
DESCRIPTION:Preparing autistic adolescents for adulthood requires more than teaching isolated skills—it involves supporting communication\, self-determination\, executive functioning\, social participation\, and meaningful independence. This webinar will provide practical\, neurodiversity-affirming\, evidence-based strategies for fostering self-advocacy\, daily living skills\, transition planning\, employment readiness\, and community participation. Participants will leave with immediately applicable tools to help adolescents build confidence while honoring individual strengths\, preferences\, and support needs. \nPresented by Michelle Dampf\, MA\, CCC-SLP\, this webinar is designed for speech-language pathologists\, educators\, transition coordinators\, occupational therapists\, psychologists\, behavior analysts\, vocational rehabilitation professionals\, social workers\, and other professionals supporting autistic middle school\, high school\, and transition-aged youth.  \nPlease register in advance at: https://umsystem.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_QilqoGymRsi5o6fXKAgNxg
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/team-webinar-transition-series-supporting-autistic-youth-and-teens-toward-independence-and-advocacy/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261110T163000
DTSTAMP:20260923T173632Z
CREATED:20260922T183905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T173632Z
UID:13201-1794324600-1794328200@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:TEAM Webinar: Behavior Series: Behavior Basics
DESCRIPTION:This session will introduce the basic principles of behavior analysis and demonstrate how they can be applied in practical settings. Participants will develop a stronger understanding of the fundamentals of behavior\, explore how environmental variables influence behavior\, and learn how to use these foundational principles to support meaningful behavior change across a variety of situations.   \nPresented by Cortney Fish\, PhD\, BCBA\, LBA this webinar is designed for educators\, speech-language pathologists\, and early childhood providers. \nPlease register in advance at: https://umsystem.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_JnID6eY7RGWr_QVFrqrWAw
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/team-webinar-behavior-series-behavior-basics/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270127T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270127T163000
DTSTAMP:20260923T173640Z
CREATED:20260922T184152Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T173640Z
UID:13203-1801063800-1801067400@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:TEAM Webinar: Behavior Series: Severe Behavior in the Classroom
DESCRIPTION:This session provides evidence-based strategies to manage and support individuals exhibiting challenging behavior in the classroom. Topics include understanding behavioral functions\, implementing proactive and reactive behavior management strategies\, utilizing reinforcement effectively\, and crisis management. Attendees will gain practical tools to create a structured\, inclusive\, and supportive learning environment while maintaining the well-being of both students and staff.  \nPresented by Ali Ducharme\, M.Ed\, BCBA\, LBA\, this webinar is designed for anyone working with students with developmental conditions in the classroom. \nPlease register in advance at: https://umsystem.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_P4jfk66gT5-lUoNGjXZWXQ
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/team-webinar-behavior-series-severe-behavior-in-the-classroom/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270210T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270210T163000
DTSTAMP:20260923T171518Z
CREATED:20260923T171518Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T171518Z
UID:13219-1802273400-1802277000@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:TEAM Webinar: Communication Series: Play #2: Helping Children Move from Functional to Pretend Play
DESCRIPTION:Pretend play supports language\, social communication\, executive functioning\, and flexible thinking\, yet many children require intentional support to develop these skills. Building on foundational play concepts\, this webinar will explore the progression from functional play to symbolic and imaginative play. Participants will learn evidence-based intervention strategies\, scaffolding techniques\, and practical activities that encourage creativity\, peer interaction\, and increasingly complex play routines across home\, school\, and therapy settings.  \nPresented by Michelle Dampf\, MA\, CCC-SLP\, this webinar is designed for speech-language pathologists\, occupational therapists\, early intervention providers\, educators\, preschool staff\, developmental specialists\, psychologists\, behavior analysts\, and other professionals supporting young children’s play development.  \nPlease register in advance at: https://umsystem.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_aZ8ZYe0dSKurCu2pVhJb0A
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/team-webinar-communication-series-play-2-helping-children-move-from-functional-to-pretend-play/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270217T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270217T163000
DTSTAMP:20260923T171949Z
CREATED:20260923T171949Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T171949Z
UID:13225-1802878200-1802881800@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:TEAM Webinar: Transition Series: Post Secondary Opportunities for Young Adults with Autism
DESCRIPTION:Choosing the right path after high school can feel overwhelming for autistic young adults and their families. This webinar will provide an overview of the postsecondary options available\, including competitive employment\, college and university programs\, Inclusive Postsecondary Education (IPSE) programs\, vocational and technical training\, apprenticeships\, job training programs\, and other community-based opportunities. Participants will learn about the benefits and considerations of each pathway\, key questions to ask when evaluating programs and services\, and practical strategies for determining the best fit based on an individual’s strengths\, interests\, support needs\, and long-term goals. \nPresented by Jaclyn Benigno\, M.Ed\, this webinar is designed for caregivers and professionals working with students with autism. \nPlease register in advance at: https://umsystem.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_EWlmo1W_RP-4Wkq56kVyow
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/team-webinar-transition-series-post-secondary-opportunities-for-young-adults-with-autism/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270309T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270309T163000
DTSTAMP:20260923T173652Z
CREATED:20260922T184315Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T173652Z
UID:13206-1804606200-1804609800@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:TEAM Webinar: Behavior Series: The Power of Connection — Building Rapport with Students with Autism
DESCRIPTION:Positive relationships are the foundation for meaningful learning and successful support. This webinar will explore the importance of building rapport with students and how strong\, trusting relationships can improve engagement\, communication\, and participation across settings. Attendees will learn practical strategies for connecting with students\, identifying individual preferences and interests\, and creating interactions that help students feel safe\, understood\, and motivated to engage. \nPresented by Cortney Fish\, PhD\, BCBA\, LBA\, this webinar is designed for educators\, speech-language pathologists\, and early childhood providers. \nPlease register in advance at: https://umsystem.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Ogc2byelRRSWBydR6t7Rnw
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/team-webinar-behavior-series-the-power-of-connection-building-rapport-with-students-with-autism/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Training
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20270316T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20270316T163000
DTSTAMP:20260923T172207Z
CREATED:20260923T172207Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260923T172207Z
UID:13227-1805211000-1805214600@thompsoncenter.missouri.edu
SUMMARY:TEAM Webinar: Educator Series: Teaching Self-Initiations to Children with Autism
DESCRIPTION:In early development\, self-initiations\, such as asking questions like “What’s that\,” play an important role in helping children learn about and engage with the world around them. For children with autism\, these initiations may need to be taught more explicitly. This session will explore the pivotal area of self-initiations – including what they are\, why they are important\, and practical strategies for encouraging children with autism to use them in everyday interactions. This webinar is designed for individuals with a working knowledge of autism and common communication support.    \nPresented by Tara DeVore\, M.Ed\, and Heidi Willoughby\, BA\, this webinar is designed for educators and professionals working with young students with autism. \nPlease register in advance at: https://umsystem.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Y5hB_o-PQgmZByCy7sr-lQ
URL:https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/event/team-webinar-educator-series-teaching-self-initiations-to-children-with-autism/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Training
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