A unique conference that focuses on the identification of autism in infants and toddlers and on early intervention is scheduled for October 11 & 12, 2008 in Yorba Linda, California. This event—the Second International Conference on Signs of Autism in Infants: Changing Outcomes through Early Identification and Intervention—brings together autism experts from the United States, Canada, and Israel who will present their latest research, knowledge, and experience. Professionals of all disciplines concerned with early identification and intervention—including physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, early interventionists, parents, and public officials—are all encouraged to attend.

Presenters include

• Pauline A. Filipek MD, Director of Autism Research, For OC Kids Neurodevelopmental Center, and Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics & Neurology, UC Irvine School of Medicine
• Mel Rutherford, Ph.D., Department of Psychology, Neuroscience and Behavior and Canada Research Chair in Social Perception, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
• Jennifer Pinto Martin, Ph.D., University of Pennsylvania - Director, Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities Research and Epidemiology (CADDRE), Philadelphia, PA
• Karen Pierce, Director of Clinical Research, Autism Center of Excellence, University of California, San Diego
• Mary Beth Steinfeld, M.D., Assistant Clinical Professor, UC Davis Medical Center Department of Pediatrics Child Development Section M.I.N.D. Institute, Sacramento, CA
• Barbara Kalmanson, Ph.D. Clinical Psychologist and Special Educator, Director, Oak Hill School, Sausalito, California
• Laurie Vismara, Ph.D., BCBA, Postdoctoral Fellow, UC Davis M.I.N.D. Institute UCD
• Tracey Stackhouse, M.A., O.T.R. President, Developmental & Fragile X Resource Centre (Developmental FX), Denver, Colorado
• Hanna Alonim, Director, The Mifne Centre, Rosh Pina, Israel
• Hedy Hansen, Parent and Family Support and Program Manager, For OC Kids

Identifying the signs of autism in the critical period before the age of one is a priority at the forefront of the scientific, health, and education communities. Thanks to a worldwide effort, encouraging progress is being made in all disciplines that address Autistic Spectrum Disorders. This conference provides an opportunity for experts across key disciplines to share their knowledge and skills with clinicians and parents who are faced with the overwhelming challenge of early identification and timely and effective intervention. With this coordinated effort, a methodology and plan of action will emerge.

It is the opinion of Margie Wagner, President of Child Development Media, Inc., and chief organizer of the Conference, that, “based on what we know from research and from experience, it is imperative that we develop intervention techniques for use as close to birth as possible. It is my belief that this conference will give us the tools we need to move us closer to that goal for the betterment of the lives of babies and their concerned parents.”

To view the digital Conference brochure or to request the printed brochure, please click on this link to our website childdevelopmentmedia.com. You may also call 800-405-8942 for further information.