Kids and young adults on the spectrum can learn the same social skills, emotional regulation techniques, and adulting skills as neurotypical kids.  
 
But you need to know how to identify and foster their unique cognitive styles and talents, how to personalize your techniques to support them, and how to help them find their strengths.  

 

Now, witness an exclusive conversation between neurodiversity pioneer Dr. Temple Grandin and neurodiversity specialist Dr. Debra Moore in Navigating Autism: 9 Mindsets for Helping Kids on the Spectrum. 
 
This engaging one and a half hour discussion is based on the book Navigating Autism: 9 Mindsets for Helping Kids on the Spectrum by Dr. Temple Grandin and Dr. Debra Moore.  
 
Broken into nine short segments, it reveals how to: 

  1. Understand autism as part of a child’s identity, rather than their whole identity 
  2. Identify and foster unique cognitive styles and talents for strength-based development 
  3. Describe and implement bespoke sensory-sensitive interventions as well as creative play 
  4. Understand autism with co-occurring medical and psychiatric conditions 
  5. Prepare kids for adulthood through practical skill development and career readiness.

It’s never too late to shift to focusing on strengths instead of deficits. 
 
What you discover here can be used with clients of any age. Not only that, but you’ll get excellent advice you can share with parents and grandparents, caregivers, teachers, and other support people.  
 
The discussion integrates clinical insights, evidence-based strategies, and neurodiversity-affirming practices to support whole-child development no matter a child’s developmental age or stage. 

Temple Grandin and Debra Moore's Navigating Autism

9 Mindsets for Helping Kids on the Spectrum

Valued at $59

Register today for just $29!

Plus, earn up to 1.5 CE credits (included in the course tuition).

Program Content

Part 1 – Every child is more than autism

Discover the importance of prioritizing career over autism. Understand that, while autism is a significant aspect of identity, it should not overshadow professional achievements. The discussion advocates for presenting strengths and interests of children on the spectrum to foster positive introductions and perceptions. 

Part 2 – Whole-child evaluations are vital

Understand the need for immediate action and support from community members to assist these children in their development.

Part 3 – Take these steps before beginning any intervention

Dr. Debra Moore and Dr. Temple Grandin provide insights into effective interventions for children on the spectrum, focusing on the importance of tailoring strategies to individual needs and controlling sensory environments. 

Part 4 – Know these medical conditions associated with autism

This talk discusses the challenges faced by nonverbal children on the spectrum, particularly when they experience pain or discomfort. It emphasizes the importance of ruling out hidden medical issues, such as toothaches, gastrointestinal issues, or ear infections that could be the root cause of behavioral problems.

Part 5 – Know these psychiatric conditions associated with autism

Drs. Grandin and Moore discuss the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and autism, including the importance of understanding the similarities between ADHD and autism, the impact of bullying, and the proper use of medications. 

Part 6 – Prepare kids for the real world

Discover the importance of teaching practical skills to children, particularly in the context of modern upbringing compared to past generations. Understand why it’s so important for children to learn essential life skills such as shopping, using tools, and money management. 

Part 7 – Focus on strengths not deficits

Discover the importance of distinguishing between a child's strengths and interests: strengths manifest more clearly as children grow older, typically around ages 7-9. Drs. Grandin and Moore highlight the different types of thinkers, such as visual and mathematical thinkers, and how these strengths can lead to varying skills in subjects like art and math. 

Part 8 – Work in the growth zone

Discover the importance of keeping children in the growth zone by providing tailored experiences that stretch their abilities just outside their comfort zones. Understand the significance of offering choices to children, ensuring they are not overwhelmed, and gradually introducing them to new situations. 

Part 9 – Envisioning a successful adulthood

In this discussion, Drs. Moore and Grandin focus on preparing children with autism for successful adulthood. They emphasize the importance of early preparation and the development of daily living skills to prevent young adults from struggling as they transition from high school to the workforce. 

Navigating Autism

9 Mindsets for Helping Kids on the Spectrum

 

Valued at $59

Register today for just $29!

Outline

  1. A strengths-based approach to fostering identity and highlighting a child’s potential for career development
  2. The importance of early invention, with continuous assessment and community support, for nonverbal children
  3. Tailored strategies and interventions for individual needs
  4. Medical conditions associated with autism
  5. Psychiatric conditions associated with autism
  6. Preparing kids with practical life skills for the real world
  7. Distinguishing between strengths and interests with a focus on strengths and not deficits  
  8. Choice-based experiences that support individual thinking styles and creativity
  9. Preparing children with autism for successful adulthood 

Objectives

  1. Understand autism as part of a child’s identity, rather than their whole identity
  2. Understand the impact of hidden medical and psychiatric conditions on autism.
  3. Create a framework for working within each child's growth zone and learn how to achieve and maintain that environment.

Navigating Autism

9 Mindsets for Helping Kids on the Spectrum

Valued at $59

Register today for just $29!

 

100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Register for this seminar risk-free. If it doesn’t meet your expectations, email us at nmhm@wwnorton.com and we will refund you. We’re confident this learning experience will deliver everything promised, and exceed your expectations.

 
 

Meet Your Instructors

Temple Grandin, PhD, is one of the world’s most respected experts in the fields of autism, animal behavior, and lifestock handling. She is a prolific speaker, internationally bestselling author, and professor of animal science at Colorado State University. She was also the subject of the Emmy–and Golden Globe–winning semibiographical film Temple Grandin. 

Debra Moore, PhD, is a psychologist who has worked extensively with children, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum. She uses therapeutic approaches that focus on strengths and interests, recognize the individuality of each client, and foster confidence and potential. Her previous project with Dr. Temple Grandin was coauthoring The Loving Push: How Parents and Professionals Can Help Spectrum Kids Become Successful Adults in 2016.  

Image credits: Grandin, Temple © Rosalie Winard; Moore, Debra © Gerard Vincent

Copyright © W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. 2026