Through funds from the Silver Cross Foundation, teachers and parents of individuals with autism can receive continuing education credits for free.

The Mississippi Department of Mental Health Statewide Autism Training Initiative is hosting Autism Foundations Training for the Lifespan at the State Bank and Trust State Room on 112 Cherokee St. in Brookhaven June 11-12. That Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. attendees will receive training in how to provide services and support to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

The registration deadline for the event is Thursday. Space is limited, and registrations will be processed by date received. Registration forms can be downloaded online at www.brc.ms.gov/Pages/autismtraining.aspx.

The training is in response to the needs of individuals with ASD, their families and individuals working with them. The training will result in attendees being eligible to apply to be trainers themselves. Trainer information and application packets will be available at the conclusion of the event.

Learning outcomes of the two-day training event include: understanding the characteristics of autism and their impact on individuals through the lifespan, skills in determining priorities and planning strategies to address them, skills in the design and use of visual strategies, an understanding of sensory processing and strategies for meeting sensory needs, skills in environmental set-up and arrangement, skills in identifying and utilizing evidence-based practices in the areas of social, communication and behavior, strategies for effect teaming as well as an awareness of state and national autism resources.

Those seeking to be sponsored by the Silver Cross should contact Silver Cross Foundation Board Chairman Sarah Foster at 601-953-6162.