Description
Published: December, 22 2025.
Length: 60-Minutes
In this webinar, educators will explore practical strategies for designing and implementing structured classroom centers that support engagement and independence for students with autism. Many autistic students benefit from predictable environments that offer clear routines, visual supports, and individualized materials. Creating such spaces within the classroom can foster a more inclusive learning environment that addresses the unique needs of these students while promoting independence.
The webinar will focus on how to develop autism-friendly centers that are adaptable to a variety of student needs. Participants will learn to integrate strategies such as visual schedules and supports into their classroom centers to enhance engagement, reduce challenging behaviors, and improve student outcomes. Key components such as environmental setup, individualized supports, and strategies for maintaining focus will be addressed.
By the end of the webinar, participants will have a clear understanding of how to build structured, engaging, and flexible classroom centers. They will leave with practical strategies and resources that can be directly implemented to support the success of autistic students, promoting autonomy and active participation in the classroom.
As a result of this activity, participants will be able to:
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Identify and apply key principles of structured environments in special education classrooms to design and create practical, engaging centers that support students with autism.
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Identify strategies to create predictable routines and environments within small group and independent learning centers.
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Develop and customize center materials during the make-and-take activity, using evidence-based strategies to support engagement, independence, and skill development for students with autism.
Shannon Wess, MSW, BCBA, Manager of Program Development and Training, Illinois Autism Partnership. A dedicated professional with an extensive background in autism service delivery and special education coaching, as well as experience in staff leadership and management, coordination of adult programming, and wraparound case management. In addition to training special education professionals, Wess developed and launched First Response, an autism awareness training program for first responders and emergency medical personnel.
