PETER VERMEULEN
PhD Psychology and Pedagogical Sciences
Many difficulties for these children arise due to a lack of knowledge about exactly what autism is and what its consequences are. The lecture aims to be a guide for educators and caregivers and for anyone who has a child with autism. This lecture provides information about:
• What autism is and what the 10 most important needs of these children are: as being understood, clarity, predictability, getting direction, connection, good agreements and rules, a positive self-esteem, a feeling of general well-being, meaning and encouragement.
• How you can support them in their sometimes strange or difficult behavior.
• How to deal with this as a (grand)parent, teacher, therapist, or supervisor.
When you get to know the specific characteristics, abilities, challenges and needs of a child with autism better, you will see their behavior in a different light. Knowing how their brain works and what their real needs are will give you a deeper understanding of why things can be difficult for them and you. What Really Works for Children with Autism also helps you to develop strategies that will create positive moments at home or in the classroom, so that autistic children can develop meaningful relationships with the important people in their lives.
Peter Vermeulen, PhD, is a senior Autism Lecturer and Consultant and is internationally respected lecturer/trainer in the field of autism. He is Chief Editor of “Sterk in Autisme!”, bimonthly magazine of Sterkmakers in autisme and responsible for autism awareness campaigns and ‘autism friendliness’ support activities. At present, he is an Autism Consultant and Lecturer at Vlaamse Dienst Autisme, where he edits a bi-monthly magazine Autisme. He also works at the Department of Psychology and Pedagogical Sciences and the Department of Sociology at the University of Leuven. He trained as a counselor and educator, and has worked for many years with autistic children. He has published extensively in the field of autism.