Early Intervention Professional Development

Motor Planning & AAC: An Introduction to the LAMP Approach - Becca Hoke

This session provides an introduction to the Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP) therapy approach. The goal of the LAMP approach is to give individuals who are nonverbal or have limited verbal abilities a method of independently and spontaneously expressing themselves through the use of a speech-generating device that provides augmentative alternative communication (AAC). Participants will learn the difference between LAMP and LAMP Words for Life, discover how using words with single motor plans impact language and communication development, and explore the five different elements that make up the researchbased LAMP therapeutic approach. Demonstrations and video examples will be used throughout the class. 

Sign Language - Lindsey Haubert

Participants will review American Sign Language (ASL) for the early intervention classroom. Review will consist of the following areas: alphabet, numbers, vocabulary, and basic concepts that can be used daily in the classrooms.  Opportunities for practice will be built into this session.  

Tantrum or Neurodivergent Meltdown - Lisa Kruse 

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interactions. A key aspect of supporting individuals with autism is recognizing the difference between meltdowns and tantrums.  Understanding these differences is crucial for providing appropriate support and creating a compassionate environment for individuals with autism. 

Artificial Intelligence - Deeper Dive - Jigar Patel

Participants will continue to explore and discuss, in more depth, the Artificial Intelligence tools that were shared during a previous professional development day.   

Adapted Art 101: Building Motor Development Through Arts & Crafts - Jenny Morgan 

Art is important for children, especially during early development. It creates opportunities for self-expression, encourages creativity, develops cognitive skills, and assists children in developing the physical skills that they will need later for writing. Have you ever wondered how you can adapt art for children with varying physical capabilities so that they can be empowered to participate alongside their peers with a ‘just right’ amount of challenge? This session will teach you the underlying fine motor and visual motor skills involved with guiding hand function. You will learn how to observe the physical capabilities of the children you work with, practice your skills at adapting art activities to encourage accessibility, and have an opportunity to ‘make and take’ some of your own adapted art creations along with you. 

AAC - Part two: Resources/Hands-On Practice - Allison Solt 

This will be an interactive follow-up session to the Introduction to LAMP session with Becca Hoke. Resources will be shared through the AAC Language Lab. The majority of this session will involve hands-on activities and practice with implementing LAMP to take back in working with your students. Bring your iPad along and be ready for hands-on practice and tips to engage your students!