Professor, author to speak at conference on autism

Temple Grandin will be featured as keynote speaker at a full-day workshop, "The Dynamic Child," March 1 at Kaneland High School in Maple Park.

Grandin may be the most prominent adult with autism in the country. She has been on numerous TV shows, including "ABC's Primetime Live," "20/20," "The Today Show" and "Larry King Live."

She is author of several award-winning books ("Thinking in Pictures," "Emergence: Labeled Autistic," "Animals in Translation" and "The Unwritten Rules of Social Relationships") that offer her own perspective on autism.

Grandin, who has a Ph.D. in animal science, is a professor at Colorado State University. She also designs humane livestock-handling facilities and consults internationally on the handling and welfare of animals.

At "The Dynamic Child," she will discuss the learning and communication styles of children who have autism and how her work with animals promotes insight and understanding.

The lineup of other speakers for the day includes Dr. William Walsh of Pfeiffer Treatment Center, Dr. John and Betsy Hicks of Pathways Medical Advocates and Dr. Tim Wahlberg, a clinical psychologist who works with many children who are on the autism spectrum.

Jeanni Bonine, an occupational therapist, will present research and information about the use of horses and the natural environment in treatment.

This workshop is targeted to parents who have children who are on the autism spectrum or who have related challenges. Teachers and other professionals who work with children also will find the workshop informative. Continuing education credits are available.

The Dynamic Child is presented by Community Therapy Services, provider of pediatric therapy services in St. Charles, with co-sponsors Kaneland School District 302 and Hoofbeats and Heartbeats Assn.

For details, call (630) 444-0077 or visit www.commtx.com to download a registration form.