2024/11/14: Accommodating Neurodiversity
Presented by: Kari Slade RDH Myofunctional Therapist
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Product Description
Accommodating Neurodiversity in the Dental Hygiene Environment
CE Hours: 2 (Online)
Online Date:
Thursday, November 14th - 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM EST
Course Description:
This 2-hour course will focus on exploring neurodiversity from a perspective of acceptance and accommodation. Beginning with educating on what neurodiversity is, and implications for perceiving and mediating stimulus; the dental hygienist will learn techniques to manage environmental and emotional stimulation and assist in creating an environment that supports neurodivergence. By creating a foundation of understanding to improve dental hygiene treatment outcomes, the Dental Hygienist will be confident to support positive dental interactions and home care initiatives.
A little bit about me-
I have been a dental hygienist for 17 years, with 6 years of pediatric practice. In 2022, I opened a clinical space with support and acceptance of neurodiversity as a foundation.
I set a goal for creating a safe place for clients who have sensory sensitivities after my son was diagnosed with autism in 2018. Being diagnosed with ADHD myself, creating a positive approach to dental hygiene care and removing the stigma of the dental office being a forceful, fearful experience has always been a cornerstone of how I practice.
I am very excited to share my experiences and some tools and tips I have learned along the way in order to improve the dental experience for all members of the community, but especially those who have sensory sensitivities and require additional care accommodations.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this 2-hour presentation learners will be able to:
- Verbalize neurodiversity
- Practice identity first language
- Understand sensory seeking and sensory avoidant behaviours
- Assess environmental considerations and adjust for environmental accommodation
- Gain an understanding of 2 types of therapeutic intervention – CBT and ABA and their principals for understanding what motivates behaviour
- Integrate tell-show-do, visual scheduling and social stories into their dental practices
- Feel confident when educating on oral self care recommendations for neurodiverse adults and children
Kari Slade RDH graduated from APLUS Institute of dental hygiene in 2007 and is a dental hygiene practice owner in Brantford Ontario. Her clinic, Something to Smile About, was first started in 2020, and is pleased to provide sensory sensitive dental hygiene care and Myofunctional Therapy through clinical and mobile services. Kari is also a clinical instructor at Southern Ontario Dental College, and President of the Dental Hygiene Practitioners of Ontario. You can follow her socials @somethingtosmileabout.