AOTA

Course Description

This course describes an evidence-based intervention that can be used to help children with high functioning autism spectrum disorder (ASD) better learn and use social interaction skills.  The SIMPLE Intervention (Social Interaction Motor Planning Exercises) uses sensory motor-based, role-play, and warm-up activities to allow children to decipher and connect facial expressions, body language, and vocal tone with emotional meaning. The course presents the theoretical basis and guidelines for the SIMPLE Intervention and illustrates its use through written and video demonstrations.  Instructions for 11 warm-up and 10 role-play activities are embedded in the course. Video clips are provided to demonstrate many of the activities. The SIMPLE Intervention can be used in the school system or in private practice.

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the learner will be able to:

·Describe theories related to social skill development for children and youth diagnosed with ASD.

·Identify current evidence-based research supporting the effectiveness of the SIMPLE Intervention.

·Discuss the use of visual, auditory, proprioceptive, and vestibular feedback to connect facial expression, body language, and vocal tone to corresponding cognitive and emotional meanings.

·Explain the use of video, Keen Observer Chart, modeled sequenced movement, role-play, error correction, and repeated practice to help children connect facial expression, body language, and vocal tone to their corresponding cognitive and emotional meanings.

·Specify how to construct warm-up and role-play activities to address real-life, daily social skill scenarios.

·Identify intervention fidelity criteria that ensure the SIMPLE Intervention is administered as intended.

Learning Level: Intermediate

Target Audience: Occupational Therapists

Topics: Autism & Asperger’s Syndrome, School-Based Practice, Continuing Education