Play is an integral part of most early childhood special education programs. For many young children with ASD and severe learning needs, this skill may be very difficult.  This webcast will discuss the importance of teaching social skills in early childhood education programs that serve students with ASD.  Elements of social skill instruction will be explored to include both systematic and naturalistic teaching strategies.  Methods of how to embed evidenced-based practices in order to promote early social skills in young children will be examined.

Stefanie Paul, M.Ed., is a Training and Technical Assistance Associate for Virginia Commonwealth University – Autism Center for Excellence (VCU-ACE).  She earned her Master’s degree in Special Education from Old Dominion University.  Stefanie has worked in Virginia serving individuals with disabilities since 1993.  She has worked in Virginia Public schools supporting students with ASD at the preschool and elementary level.   Stefanie recently served as a coach to teachers who serve students with ASD in Newport News Public Schools.