Spring 2026 Course and Coaching

Building the Foundation: Understanding Autistic Experiences to Create Supportive, Responsive Care

Are you looking to deepen your knowledge and feel more confident supporting autistic children in healthcare settings?

This spring, join a seven‑week live online series designed to build a solid foundation in understanding and supporting autistic children and their families in pediatric environments. The series offers clear instruction, practical examples, and space for thoughtful discussion—helping you strengthen your skills in a supportive, professional learning community.

Led by Jill Hudson, a child life specialist and autism consultant with more than 20 years of experience, each session focuses on essential topics such as autistic experiences, sensory needs, communication differences, visual supports, predictability, and collaborative care approaches.

Across the seven weeks, you’ll gain practical insights and strategies you can begin integrating into your work, supporting you in creating more responsive and informed care experiences for autistic patients and their families.

Spring 2026

This is a practical, supportive learning experience designed to strengthen your understanding and give you strategies you can apply right away. Topics we’ll explore include:
- Real‑world examples that illustrate autistic experiences in healthcare
- Environmental adjustments to reduce sensory stress
- Layering supports and interventions for smoother care experiences
- Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams
- Effective, respectful communication with patients and families
- Advocacy approaches that promote high‑quality, neuro‑affirming care
Week 1: Autism in healthcare: common characteristics and developmental levels
Week 2: Sensory systems
Week 3: Evaluating the environment and matching supports
Week 4: Communication foundations
Week 5: Using visual supports
Week 6: Predictability and preparation
Week 7: Information gathering and quick care planning
- Focused and foundational: A structured 7‑week format of live instruction designed to build essential knowledge and practical understanding you can apply immediately.
  Real-time learning: Live Zoom sessions with time for Q&A, reflection, discussion, and problem‑solving.
  Resource-rich: Tools and strategies you can use right away.
  Community support: Learn alongside peers facing similar situations.
  Upon completion: Individualized certificate of completion