Udemy

Special Interest Groups: A Neuro-Affirming Approach

Neuro-affirming special interest group
New
Rating: 0.0 out of 5 (0 ratings)
80 students
37min of on-demand video
English
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Student will demonstrate the ability to utilize and analyze evidence for occupation-based practice and develop habits of life-long learning
Student will display professionalism, ethical behavior, and advocacy skills to influence positive change with clients, communities, and the profession
Student will provide overview of weekly sessions for caregivers and follow-up activities/information to be utilized in-between
Students will gain an understanding of a neuro-affirming approach to group therapy.

Requirements

  • No prerequisites needed

Description

My name is Grace Blazevich, and I am a third-year occupational therapy doctoral student. This course outlines my 14-week doctoral capstone experience at a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric clinic. The primary focus of this project was the development and implementation of play-based, special interest groups for autistic children ages 6–9.

Rooted in the principles of neuro-affirming care, this course explores how honoring a child’s unique strengths, sensory preferences, and interests can foster engagement, social connection, and emotional regulation. The content includes a detailed needs assessment, a literature review, and practical tools developed to support clinicians and caregivers in applying neurodiversity-affirming practices.

Participants will learn:

  • The foundations of neuro-affirming care in pediatric occupational therapy

  • How to use children’s special interests to promote participation and regulation

  • Strategies for developing inclusive, interest-based group interventions

  • The value of shifting from traditional social skills training to meaningful, child-led interaction

This course contains research-supported lectures and downloadable resources such as caregiver handouts, group planning templates, and sample session guides. A short quiz at the end will reinforce key takeaways, and references are provided for those seeking further education.

Thank you for taking the time to explore this course—I hope it empowers you to support autistic children in ways that are affirming, playful, and truly engaging.

Who this course is for:

  • This course is intended to educate individuals on a neuro-affirming approach to creating groups focused on autistic individuals special interests versus teaching social skills.

Instructor

Instructor
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  • 80 Students
  • 1 Course

I am currently a third year occupational therapy doctoral student. I currently attend Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. This Udemy course consists of information on my doctoral capstone project that was completed at Rise Pediatric Therapy in Urbandale, Iowa. I have always had a passion for working with the pediatric population and hope to continue working with children in the future.

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