Parenting an Autistic Child: The Teen Years

The teenage years can bring new opportunities, challenges and questions for both autistic young people and their families. As children move towards adolescence, parents and carers often find themselves navigating changes in behaviour, communication, friendships, independence and emotional wellbeing.

Our aim is to provide parents and carers with the opportunity to learn more about supporting autistic young people aged 11–16 years, gain practical strategies for managing behaviours at home, and connect with other families in a safe and supportive environment.

This workshop has been co-created by professionals and parents with lived experience.

Whether your young person has recently received a diagnosis, has been diagnosed for some time, or is currently on the assessment pathway, you are welcome to take part and hear first-hand from other parents and carers of autistic teenagers.

Workshop Information

Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm.

Location: Collingwood Hotel, 11 Priory Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5DF.

Parking: Parking available at the venue. Please register your license plate at reception on arrival.

Outline of the Day

• Develop your understanding of autism during the teenage years
• Learn practical strategies for supporting your teenager at home
• Explore topics including emotional wellbeing, communication, independence and behaviour
• Gain guidance on navigating conversations about growing up, relationships and adolescence
• Meet other local parents and carers of autistic teenagers
• Hear first-hand parent experiences

Refreshments, including tea, coffee and biscuits, will be provided throughout the day. Please bring a packed lunch with you.

The workshop will be delivered in a relaxed, informal and supportive environment.

PLEASE NOTE: This workshop is open to parents and carers only. Young people will not be admitted into the workshop, so you will need to make alternative childcare arrangements to cover the workshop duration. If you arrive with your child, you will be turned away from the workshop.

If you have any questions before the course, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

We look forward to seeing you on the day.