July 25 @ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Here at Sinneave, we want to foster environments where Autistic individuals are free to be themselves and recognize the value they bring to the places they live, learn and work, so they can thrive.
Join us as we celebrate being Autistic & Awesome!
Thursday, July 25, 2024
4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
When we read or search about autism online, we notice that a lot of the information uses negative and disability-focused language. Words like “inflexible”, “rigid”, “lack of” and “difficulty “are commonly found alongside definitions of autism. However, we know that the medical model of disability–which uses those terms–doesn’t tell the whole story. The human experience really is one of diversity and we want to educate and encourage others to embrace our neurological differences, not as something that needs to be “cured,” but instead recognizing the benefits and beauty that different perspectives provide.
We are committed to changing the perception of and language around autism and celebrating the many amazing strengths and characteristics of Autistics we know and have the privilege of working with.
In this session, we will replace outdated definitions and descriptions of autism with positives, beginning with celebrating the many positive traits and characteristics common among Autistics and empowering those individuals to embrace who they are and what they have to offer. We will also highlight the vibrancy of Autistic culture and learn ways we can support inclusion in our communities.
The event will include a short presentation, information sharing, and discussion in a safe and welcoming small group environment.
Advance registration is not required. We look forward to seeing you there!
If you have questions about this session, please reach out by email to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call us at 403 210-5000.
Related Events
- gain a better understanding of autism and neurodiversity,
- learn about and discuss realistic and attainable strategies to support these students in the classroom, and
- shine a spotlight on the potential these students bring to learning environments that highlight ability over deficit.
Monday, October 16, 2023
Session One: Autism in the Classroom
“If you’ve met one person with Autism, you’ve met one person with Autism” – Dr. Stephen Shore.
Session attendees will gain a better general understanding of Autism and neurodiversity through a neuro-affirming, strengths-based lens. We will provide fast facts about Autism and neurodiversity, and discuss how these differences can show up in educational environments like the classroom. This foundational information will then guide us into discussing some key realistic and attainable strategies that support all students.
Monday, October 23, 2023
Session Two: The Iceberg of Autism and Neurodiversity
Did you know that Autistics have a higher prevalence of co-occurring medical conditions and mental health challenges than their non-Autistic peers? Session attendees will strengthen their existing knowledge of Autistic and neurodivergent students by learning about conditions that can accompany Autism and their potential effect in the classroom environment. This information will lead to a discussion about the line between teaching and treatment, along with proven strategies that meet the wellbeing needs of all students and ensure learning-readiness.
Recommended (not mandatory) pre-requisite: Session One: Autism in the Classroom
Monday, October 30, 2023
Session Three: Autism: Spotlight on Potential
In the final session, we put the spotlight on the incredible potential of Autistic and neurodivergent students when they are in learning environments that highlight their strengths, support their engagement and set them up for success. By fostering an educational setting that highlights ability over deficit, all students can thrive and go on to realize their full potential as they transition out of school.
Recommended (not mandatory) pre-requisite: Session One: Autism in the Classroom & Session Two: The Iceberg of Autism and Neurodiversity
Registration for this event is offered through Calgary Regional Consortium. When you click the button below, you will be redirected to their website to register.
Autism Learning Series for Educators
About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Shane Lynch is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Innovation and Evaluation for The Sinneave Family Foundation. He is responsible for the design, implementation, and evaluation of the programs and services offered to the community. Prior to coming to Sinneave, Shane was in clinical practice for over 20 years serving individuals, families, schools, and agencies as they supported individuals on the autism spectrum.
Amy Tatterton is the Director of Learning and Connection for The Sinneave Family Foundation. She is responsible for providing leadership and direction to Sinneave’s learning and knowledge exchange activities. Amy holds a Master of Education in Educational Research with a specialization in Interdisciplinary Studies.
Jodi Taylor is an Inclusion Support Teacher at Foundations for the Future Charter Academy as well as a contract Designer of Professional Learning for Calgary Regional Consortium. She has been in the classroom at the middle school and high school levels for over 20 years, primarily as a Humanities teacher. Jodi brings the belief to all the work she engages in that there is no one size fits all when it comes to learning. Supporting literacy and inclusive education, Jodi strives to inspire a love of literacy for all students, embrace diversity in the learning profiles and personalities of the teachers she works with and the students they support, and make collaborations with educators practical and classroom focused by inviting conversations that make thinking visible. This includes strategies that allow entry points and opportunities for growth for every learner.
- gain a better understanding of autism and neurodiversity,
- learn about and discuss realistic and attainable strategies to support these students in the classroom, and
- shine a spotlight on the potential these students bring to learning environments that highlight ability over deficit.
Monday, October 16, 2023
Session One: Autism in the Classroom
“If you’ve met one person with Autism, you’ve met one person with Autism” – Dr. Stephen Shore.
Session attendees will gain a better general understanding of Autism and neurodiversity through a neuro-affirming, strengths-based lens. We will provide fast facts about Autism and neurodiversity, and discuss how these differences can show up in educational environments like the classroom. This foundational information will then guide us into discussing some key realistic and attainable strategies that support all students.
Monday, October 23, 2023
Session Two: The Iceberg of Autism and Neurodiversity
Did you know that Autistics have a higher prevalence of co-occurring medical conditions and mental health challenges than their non-Autistic peers? Session attendees will strengthen their existing knowledge of Autistic and neurodivergent students by learning about conditions that can accompany Autism and their potential effect in the classroom environment. This information will lead to a discussion about the line between teaching and treatment, along with proven strategies that meet the wellbeing needs of all students and ensure learning-readiness.
Recommended (not mandatory) pre-requisite: Session One: Autism in the Classroom
Monday, October 30, 2023
Session Three: Autism: Spotlight on Potential
In the final session, we put the spotlight on the incredible potential of Autistic and neurodivergent students when they are in learning environments that highlight their strengths, support their engagement and set them up for success. By fostering an educational setting that highlights ability over deficit, all students can thrive and go on to realize their full potential as they transition out of school.
Recommended (not mandatory) pre-requisite: Session One: Autism in the Classroom & Session Two: The Iceberg of Autism and Neurodiversity
Registration for this event is offered through Calgary Regional Consortium. When you click the button below, you will be redirected to their website to register.
Autism Learning Series for Educators
About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Shane Lynch is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Innovation and Evaluation for The Sinneave Family Foundation. He is responsible for the design, implementation, and evaluation of the programs and services offered to the community. Prior to coming to Sinneave, Shane was in clinical practice for over 20 years serving individuals, families, schools, and agencies as they supported individuals on the autism spectrum.
Amy Tatterton is the Director of Learning and Connection for The Sinneave Family Foundation. She is responsible for providing leadership and direction to Sinneave’s learning and knowledge exchange activities. Amy holds a Master of Education in Educational Research with a specialization in Interdisciplinary Studies.
Jodi Taylor is an Inclusion Support Teacher at Foundations for the Future Charter Academy as well as a contract Designer of Professional Learning for Calgary Regional Consortium. She has been in the classroom at the middle school and high school levels for over 20 years, primarily as a Humanities teacher. Jodi brings the belief to all the work she engages in that there is no one size fits all when it comes to learning. Supporting literacy and inclusive education, Jodi strives to inspire a love of literacy for all students, embrace diversity in the learning profiles and personalities of the teachers she works with and the students they support, and make collaborations with educators practical and classroom focused by inviting conversations that make thinking visible. This includes strategies that allow entry points and opportunities for growth for every learner.
- gain a better understanding of autism and neurodiversity,
- learn about and discuss realistic and attainable strategies to support these students in the classroom, and
- shine a spotlight on the potential these students bring to learning environments that highlight ability over deficit.
Monday, October 16, 2023
Session One: Autism in the Classroom
“If you’ve met one person with Autism, you’ve met one person with Autism” – Dr. Stephen Shore.
Session attendees will gain a better general understanding of Autism and neurodiversity through a neuro-affirming, strengths-based lens. We will provide fast facts about Autism and neurodiversity, and discuss how these differences can show up in educational environments like the classroom. This foundational information will then guide us into discussing some key realistic and attainable strategies that support all students.
Monday, October 23, 2023
Session Two: The Iceberg of Autism and Neurodiversity
Did you know that Autistics have a higher prevalence of co-occurring medical conditions and mental health challenges than their non-Autistic peers? Session attendees will strengthen their existing knowledge of Autistic and neurodivergent students by learning about conditions that can accompany Autism and their potential effect in the classroom environment. This information will lead to a discussion about the line between teaching and treatment, along with proven strategies that meet the wellbeing needs of all students and ensure learning-readiness.
Recommended (not mandatory) pre-requisite: Session One: Autism in the Classroom
Monday, October 30, 2023
Session Three: Autism: Spotlight on Potential
In the final session, we put the spotlight on the incredible potential of Autistic and neurodivergent students when they are in learning environments that highlight their strengths, support their engagement and set them up for success. By fostering an educational setting that highlights ability over deficit, all students can thrive and go on to realize their full potential as they transition out of school.
Recommended (not mandatory) pre-requisite: Session One: Autism in the Classroom & Session Two: The Iceberg of Autism and Neurodiversity
Registration for this event is offered through Calgary Regional Consortium. When you click the button below, you will be redirected to their website to register.
Autism Learning Series for Educators
About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Shane Lynch is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Innovation and Evaluation for The Sinneave Family Foundation. He is responsible for the design, implementation, and evaluation of the programs and services offered to the community. Prior to coming to Sinneave, Shane was in clinical practice for over 20 years serving individuals, families, schools, and agencies as they supported individuals on the autism spectrum.
Amy Tatterton is the Director of Learning and Connection for The Sinneave Family Foundation. She is responsible for providing leadership and direction to Sinneave’s learning and knowledge exchange activities. Amy holds a Master of Education in Educational Research with a specialization in Interdisciplinary Studies.
Jodi Taylor is an Inclusion Support Teacher at Foundations for the Future Charter Academy as well as a contract Designer of Professional Learning for Calgary Regional Consortium. She has been in the classroom at the middle school and high school levels for over 20 years, primarily as a Humanities teacher. Jodi brings the belief to all the work she engages in that there is no one size fits all when it comes to learning. Supporting literacy and inclusive education, Jodi strives to inspire a love of literacy for all students, embrace diversity in the learning profiles and personalities of the teachers she works with and the students they support, and make collaborations with educators practical and classroom focused by inviting conversations that make thinking visible. This includes strategies that allow entry points and opportunities for growth for every learner.
We know that finding and maintaining meaningful employment has many benefits–from increased confidence, performance and productivity to better mental health and wellbeing.
Here at Sinneave, we are passionate about coming alongside autistic and neurodivergent job seekers to assist them on their employment journeys. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re interested in improving your job prospects, consider joining us for FREE Drop-in Employment Support sessions in October.
Wednesdays, October 4, 11, 18 and 25.
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
If attending in-person isn’t possible for you, there is also the option of attending virtually via Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub.
Attendees will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify strengths, interests and potential career paths.
There is no formal agenda to the sessions. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on helping you to develop essential pre-employment skills, including:
- creating an effective resume
- learning and practicing interview techniques
- workplace communication
- and more!
Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights and enhance their employability, confidence and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in.
To access the virtual link, you will need a free Sinneave Connects account. If you already have one, just log in to the portal as usual. If you are not yet registered, it’s easy. When you click the button below it will direct you to the portal.
- Pick a username
- Pick a password (don’t forget to save it somewhere for next time!)
- Select “Register”
- Choose the “Drop-in Employment Support – October 25” course and enroll to access the virtual link.
Drop-in Employment Support – October 25
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Ian, Sherry and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and career success.
P.S. Did you know you can access Sinneave Connects directly from our Homepage? Just look for the icon in the top right corner.
Be a catalyst for change in your workplace, school, community and beyond!
Learn six key principles that create and foster environments where everyone can thrive.
You’re invited to join us, in collaboration with our friends at AIDE Canada, for a webinar aimed at Building Understanding and Informing Action.
While our primary focus is on enhancing the experiences of Autistic individuals in their day-to-day life, these six principles are broadly applicable and beneficial to anyone who wants to create safe, welcoming and inclusive spaces.
Presented virtually, Wednesday, September 13 at 11 a.m. Mountain time (10 a.m. Pacific time)
When you click on the button below, you will be directed to AIDE Canada’s website to register and access the virtual event.
Building Understanding, Informing Action
A little about the Presenter
Jay Haukenfrers (she/her) is the Learning and Connection Coordinator for the Sinneave Family Foundation. She oversees Sinneave’s Information and Navigation Service, which provides resources to self-advocates, parents and professionals. Jay also supports with knowledge exchange activities, including community engagement, presentations, workshops and digital content. Jay has a Bachelors of Arts, with a focus in music and psychology. She has had the honour to offer support to diverse vulnerable populations for 10 years including families and kids in crisis, young people with disabilities pursue post-secondary education, adults with disabilities and co-occurring health challenges, and currently, supporting autistic and neurodivergent youth and adults with the transition to adulthood. She is excited to share more about how to make more places and spaces welcoming for autistic and neurodivergent people of all ages!
A little about AIDE Canada
At its core, the Autism and/or Intellectual Disability Knowledge Exchange Network (AIDE Canada) is a tool to connect members of our community to the information and resources that they need. We deliver credible, reliable, and evidence-informed resources in an unbiased and accessible way.