Session 1:

This session provides an overview of the diagnostic criteria and characteristics of ASD, including cognitive, sensory, communicative, social, adaptive, and behavioral differences. Participants will gain an understanding of federal and state regulations pertaining to public school services for ASD. Registrants are introduced to the California Autism Professional Training and Information Network (CAPTAIN), the statewide initiative dedicated to the dissemination of evidence-based practices for ASD. Additionally, an introduction to the basic principles and terminology of ABA are included with an emphasis on the objective description of behaviors, the ABC contingency, and understanding the main functions of behavior.