As the rate of autism increases exponentially, schools around the world find themselves in a position where they must cater for the learning needs of the child on the autism spectrum. Autism is a spectrum diagnosis. On the one end of the spectrum there could be a child who can’t speak at all and on the other end, there could be a child who can attend at school and is higher functioning but can have social skills deficits and other learning challenges.

The latest statistics from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in America, demonstrates that every 1:36 children receive an autism diagnosis. The statistics are similar around the world. More children with autism are battling the school system. Ilana will present on the red flags to autism and how early intervention and diagnosis is key to ensure best outcomes.

Parents are often in denial and find it hard to come to terms with a diagnosis. Moving beyond denial is crucial for several reasons. The sooner your child can receive the necessary interventions to catch up their delayed development the sooner you can be a part of experiencing your child’s progress. Living in fear about your child’s development can be emotionally exhausting and may prevent you from getting them the support they need for their development and well-being. In a young developing child, more skills are expected every year of development. Intervention early on means smaller gaps to close later. Time is not on their side. They are against the clock and early intervention sets the stage for the best results.

She will present on a scientific and evidence-based teaching methodology for autism i.e. Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Ilana will also present on a comprehensive developmental curriculum for autism that is used to tailor make education programs for each individual child on the spectrum. The curriculum covers many developmental areas including social, motor, language, adaptive, executive functioning, academic and play skills. She will discuss case studies of young children receiving educational instruction and explain how to teach basic skills such as eye contact, imitation skills, language and communication skills with a special focus on speech motor planning, toilet training, play skills etc.

She will also share her personal journey with autism and present information on the many treatments she followed to help two of her sons, who both received a diagnosis of autism. In 2003, when her oldest son David was only 20 months old, he was diagnosed with autism, and she was told ‘goodbye and good luck.’ He has autism take out an insurance policy. Accept him and make him comfortable. Refusing to believe that nothing could be done, she immersed herself in research and travelled around the world to find treatments and solutions. Ilana will share insight into how to navigate the journey with autism. She will also present on the outcome of her youngest son who despite a diagnosis of autism is now indistinguishable from his peers.

Her husband Martin will share his journey from a father’s perspective and give valuable advice to parents and professionals. Martin encourages parents to walk this journey together.

Ilana is an international speaker, having presented at conferences around the world and her book, Saving My Sons – A Journey with autism is a guide to parents and professionals working in the field of autism. The presentation is a message of hope and inspiration to both parents and professionals raising and teaching children with autism.

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