Learning Space

Understanding Autism course

This course is designed for parents who are waiting for a diagnosis for their child or have a child with autistic traits and need help to understand some of their child's behaviours, explore strategies and meet other parents.  Themes include what is autism, strengths and difficulties of children on the autistic spectrum, the impact on family life and school life and strategies for building levels of confidence and self-esteem and reducing anxiety.

The course consists of four 2.5 hour sessions with an accompanying booklet.  There is opportunity for parents to bring their own issues for discussion.

There is also a virtual offer consisting of a video and booklet plus a one-hour group virtual question and answer session.

One-to-one support

Alliance partner Learning Space offers a minimum of six one-to-one sessions for children and young people aged from 6 to 17 years, with staff trained in autism and solution-focused practise. These sessions are aimed at exploring strengths, helping to understand behaviours, managing emotions and strategies to achieve goals. Various approaches including play, drama, and creative work are incorporated. They also work with parents, offering a bespoke and tailored approach to each family. 

Where requested Learning Space also liaises with the child's school to share strategies. This is done both virtually and face-to-face. In some instances, a community mentor will continue working with a child in school to 'hand over' agreed strategies in a more holistic way.

Autism social groups for families

There are a selection of activities and outings for autistic children, young people and their families to come together in a safe, supportive environment, to develop their social skills, build peer networks and have fun! These are family events where parents and carers remain responsible for their children. A child or young person does not need to have a diagnosis of autism for them or their family to be able to access our services, they may instead have social and communication difficulties or autism traits identified by the child, parent or supporting professionals.

Training for schools 

Training for schools co-designed and delivered by National Autistic Society and Learning Space supports schools in their understanding of autism and offers practical classroom strategies to help support children and young people in their care. A child or young person does not need to have a diagnosis of autism for them or their family to be able to access these services; they may instead have social and communication difficulties or autism traits identified by the child, parent or supporting professionals.