Exploring the issues faced by children and teenagers with a learning disability and/or autism, when they are going through puberty, and the impact this can have on their family and wider circle. Topics covered will include;

- Identifying the characteristics of puberty that can have a significant effect on young people

- Providing an understanding of anger management related to puberty

- Practical approaches which can be taken to address inappropriate sexualised behaviours

- How it’s never too early to start planning for puberty

 

Mark has worked with children and adults with learning disabilities, autism and many other neuro-developmental conditions for over 30 years in many different capacities, which has included managing a residential long-stay home for adults with behavioural difficulties. Mark specialises in working directly with children, adolescents and young adults who have a range of diagnoses, and who are all struggling with challenging and/or socially inappropriate behaviour. Many of the young people he works with have difficulties in interpreting the boundaries of acceptable and unacceptable sexual behaviour, and this work has led him to developing an enhanced sex education course specifically designed for those who may otherwise be at risk of displaying sexually inappropriate behaviour. Mark completed his PhD at the University of Kent in 2019, with his thesis titled “I wish I had learnt to keep safe – sexuality and relationships education (SRE) for pupils with Autistic Spectrum Condition”.

 

Registration for this session is from 9.45am, with an 10am prompt start.

 

For any queries, or for further information, please email [email protected]