Available Training and Upcoming Events

Available Training Topics

Learning for families and professionals, offered both in-person and online

Obtain new information, perfect your skills

ECAC offers training for both families and professionals both in-person or via webinar. All of our training and activities are available free of charge to families. We offer trainings on a variety of topics and can customize our workshops to match the needs of the audience.

Workshops (“in-person” learning opportunities) and online webinars are excellent ways to learn new information and tune up your skills. If you are interested in scheduling a workshop in your area, please contact Toni Stephens at 1-800-962-6817, ext. 320 or use our online form.

Selected Training Topics

Assistive Technology: It’s NOT Rocket Science!

Assistive Technology (AT) is not just about electronic equipment – but more about discovering the tools to support your child in their learning. This workshop explores AT devices and services, both high and low tech tools, evaluations and how to include AT in your child’s IEP.

Becoming Your Child’s Best and Most Effective Advocate!

Strong advocacy skills are critical as you work to ensure your child’s benefits from his/her education. Learn the steps to help you effectively advocate for your child’s needs. Remember, you are an equal partner in your child’s education.

Effective Communication Skills – Keep communication between home and school on the right track!

As an equal partner in your child’s education, you must be able to effectively communicate your views and feelings to the School Team and other school personnel. This workshop explores styles of communication, listening skills, organization skills, tools, resources and more to help you keep communication between home and school on the right track!

EVERYONE Belongs: Inclusion

This workshop discusses the philosophy, legal issues, barriers and strategies related to the inclusion of students with disabilities in regular classroom settings. Participants will have a better understanding of how to partner with teachers to create inclusive school environments for students, including students with significant disabilities.

IEP Road Trip

For this workshop, we will explore different parts of the IEP and the rules of the road. We’ll cover a lot of territory and how to navigate road blocks and detours that may occur along the way. Upon reaching our final destination, passengers will have a better understanding of special education terminology, the IEP process and will know how to prepare for and participate in IEP meetings.

I’m Growing Up! – Transition from Early Intervention to Preschool and/or Kindergarten Services

This workshop includes important information for parents/caregivers of children 2.5 through 5 years of age. Prepare for the big move from Early Intervention services into school-age rights and services (beginning at age 3) and continue building a strong educational foundation for your child. Learn about the school-age special education process and your role and responsibilities in that process. Become better prepared to participate on the IEP Team and develop an appropriate program for your child.

Informed Effective Parents

This comprehensive workshop provides parents and families with a broad base of information about special education laws (IDEA 2004, FERPA, etc.) and includes the tools and strategies for writing effective IEPs, effective communication skills, letter writing, record keeping, & documentation, and the steps to take if you disagree.

Life is a Journey… Prepare for the Trip! (Transition to Adulthood)

This workshop will help parents and students to prepare for the future. Beginning at age 14, students and schools must begin the journey in planning for life after high school. Learn how to write an Individualized Transition Plan (ITP) and how to include your child in this important process. This workshop will include information and strategies for students preparing to work after high school and students going on to college or other educational settings.

Parents Role in Special Education

This informative presentation is designed to help parents understand their rights and roles in the IEP process. Participants will learn how to prepare for and participate in meetings, how to understand and ask questions, and how to recognize the different roles of parents and school staff.

Special Education Basics

Supporting students with disabilities can happen with an IEP or a 504 Plan. This workshop includes: an overview of the IEP (Individualized Education Program) and 504 Plans; how they are different; how to know which one is right for your child; and how to effectively participate in either process.

Telling Your Story

Your experiences as a parent of a child with special needs are unique and important. Did you know that others will benefit from your story and need to hear it? Sharing your story is a powerful way to impact and improve outcomes for all children with disabilities. Participants will practice telling their story and will learn more about current opportunities to share their stories.

What is ECAC?

This presentation explores ECAC’s history, programs and services, including resources, tools and supports for families, educators and other professionals. Time is included for questions and answers.

Writing Effective IEPs

Learn how to actively participate in writing the IEP and navigate the “maze” of forms and paperwork. This workshop will help you identify your child’s strengths and needs and use evaluation information to prepare for writing an Individualized Education Program. Tune up your skills and identify strategies to ensure that your child’s IEP is implemented and changed as she/he grows.

When Behavior Gets in the Way: Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports

Learn skills that will help parents and teachers to identify and understand challenging behaviors while creating an atmosphere for positive change and support. Discover how Functional Behavior Assessments and Positive Behavior Intervention Supports can work at school and at home.

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