Family Wellbeing Course
We have developed a 6-week programme designed for parents and carers of children who are autistic, or awaiting an autism diagnostic assessment. Using evidence-based approaches to thriving and a library of videos created by autistic children and young people, the course aims to deepen your understanding of your autistic child while also focusing on your own wellbeing as a parent/carer.
Programme structure:
- Weekly 2-hour group session → total 12 hours
- Held in-person at the University of Reading’s Whiteknights campus
- Co-facilitated by Dr Jo Billington and an autistic parenting practitioner from the charity Parenting Special Children
- Two age-group streams: children aged 5-11 and 11-16
- Cost: £60 per person
Topics covered include:
- Understanding authentic autistic ways of being
- Recognising and responding to your autistic child’s needs sensitively
- Creating supportive environments in which your child can flourish
- Applying neurodiversity affirming approaches in family life
- Navigating local and national sources of support
- Reflecting on your own wellbeing as a parent/carer
Insights from previous attendees:
“I have really enjoyed the atmosphere that has been created during this course. I have gained so much insight from hearing of other families’ experiences”
“What stood out to me was autistic children and young people being given a platform to express themselves and help others understand their world. It definitely changed my understanding”
“I now feel more confident as a parent – I am more understanding and can empathise with my child more”
Upcoming courses:
Course for parents/carers of children aged 5-11
Wednesdays 19.00 – 21.00
Session 1: June 17th
Session 2: June 24th
Session 3: July 1st
Session 4: July 8th
Session 5: July 15th
Session 6: July 22nd
Course for parents/carers of children aged 11-16
Wednesdays 19.00 – 21.00
Session 1: September 30th
Session 2: October 7th
Session 3: October 14th
Session 4: October 21st
(Break for half term)
Session 5: November 4th
Session 6: November 11th
Course for parents/carers of children aged 5-11
Tuesdays 10.00 – 12.00
Session 1: November 10th
Session 2: November 17th
Session 3: November 24th
Session 4: December 1st
Session 5: December 8th
Session 6: December 15th