Birchtree Center Offers Admission-Free Autism Programs for Families, Fducators

NEWINGTON, NH — Do you have questions about autism? The nonprofit Birchtree Center’s autism experts will offer seven admission-free programs for families and educators this winter and spring in Newington.

The series begins on Jan. 11 with a question-and-answer session for families on “Siblings of Children and Youth with Autism.” The session starts with a 10-minute presentation followed by questions and discussion. Parents, guardians, caregivers and siblings age 10 and up are welcome. The snow date is Jan. 18.

Panelists for the first Q&A include a parent and an older sibling of a Birchtree student.

“We find it’s incredibly helpful for parents and siblings to get ideas from other families on how to manage the challenges of autism,” Executive Director Sandra Pierce-Jordan said.

Next up in the series is a March 1 workshop titled “The Functions of Behavior at School – Why is my Student Doing That?” The workshop is designed for para-educators, childcare providers and direct service providers who work one-on-one or in small groups with individuals with autism. Certificates of attendance are provided.

All programs are offered from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at The Birchtree Center at 2064 Woodbury Ave., Suite 204, in Newington. Admission is complimentary and reservations are suggested. Complimentary onsite childcare is available for families during the Q&As; childcare reservations are required at least seven days in advance.

For reservations and more information, visit birchtreecenter.org/workshops or call 603-433-4192.