Through this conference, participants will be able to: Dicuss the newest research related to functional imaging and detect autism. Develop a therapeutic approach for the use of psychopharmacology adn psychotheraepy in patients with autism.

We know children learn best through play, but what if they don't know how? This interactive session will provide information about characteristics of play in young children, birth through 5 years, who have autism spectrum disorder. Video clips and discussion will be incorperated into the session so participants leave with practical strategies for engaging children in play and planning ideas they can use when working with children and families.

Are you struggling with teaching your students independent functioning skills? If so, the first day of this conference is for you! Susan Stokes will present numerous, practical evidence-based techniques using various modes of technology as visual support strategies as well as a unique educational planning guide designed to assist teams in identifying contexts and situations that require adult support. The training will also highlight applications galore! Come discover how the most popular form of technology, the iPhone/iTouch/iPad can make a difference in supporting a person with ASD.

On a journey to achieving competency in math, students must learn to problem solve, reason, communicate and represent mathematical ideas. Attend this interactive workshop and explore research based math lessons that teach these various math processes, and will help the K-5 math SOLs come alive for struggling students! Participants will learn how to engage all students in a variety of practical problems involving whole numbers, decimals, and fractions by using manipulatives and simple representations that will keep math concepts alive in students' minds. Participants will leave this hands-on workshop with resources that have been created especially for this session such as: word problems, sorting and other interactive activities, internet links, formative assessment strategies and simple project ideas that will make the journey through learning the Virginia K-5 Math Standards fun and engaging for your students.

Sometimes referred to as an "arranged marriage", the partnership between a teacher and paraprofessional is important for a positive and productive classroom climate. This session will offer tried-and-true methods for enhancing the working relationship between paraprofessionals and teachers. Examples of techniques to be discussed include daily communication, weekly conferencing, shared input of classroom planning, and shared data collection.

The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) invites you to join us for the premier professional development event dedicated to special and gifted education: the CEC 2012 Convention & Expo, April 11-14 in Denver, Colorado. Convention Program Chair Dr. Douglas Cheney and the 2012 Program Advisory Committee have planned hundreds of educational sessions in a variety of formats to meet every learner's needs.