Milestones Autism Resources Conference
Over the weekend, Dr. Adam Hazlett attended the Milestones National Autism Conference. Not only did he find the experience energizing by efforts made by conference organizers to accommodate the neurodivergent and disabled community members like himself, he was inspired by the efforts made to welcome this community alongside the caregivers of the community.
“The 2024 Milestones National Autism Conference in Cleveland was a remarkable event for autism advocacy, inclusion, and community-building.”
Hosted by Milestones Autism Resources, this annual gathering brought together families, professionals, and advocates committed to supporting the autistic community. The organization has been advocating for the autistic community for over two decades.
After a run of virtual conferences since 2020, Milestones National Autism Conference was finally able to come back in person and their programs targeting “autism professionals, autistic individuals and their family members” aimed to offer “practical strategies to use at work, school and home” at the in-person event did not disappoint.
Keynote speakers featured at the Milestones National Autism Conference were Tiffany Hammond and Sarah Ward. Hammond is a New York Times best selling children’s author who uses her personal experience as an autistic mother with two autistic children to help others with her writing and advocacy through Fidgets and Fries. Sarah Ward is a clinician and the Co-Director of Cognitive Connections, LLP who focuses on helping people with executive function.
Both women spoke to the importance of listening to the autistic community while working with caregivers, educators, and employers with Hammond offering a unique perspective on intersectionality as a black, autistic woman, parenting autistic children.
They were joined by dozens of speakers, sponsors, exhibitors and vendors at the conference where hundreds of attendees were able to access numerous CEUs (Continuing Education Units). More than a dozen programs were offered for the CEUs including Adult Services, Behavioral Analyst Certification Board (BACB), Counseling, (NEW) Early Childhood Education, Early Intervention, Education, Marriage & Family Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Service & Support Administration, Social Work, and Speech-Language Pathology.
As Dr. Hazlett took everything in from the two-day event; he noted a few things that made him feel particularly welcomed and feel as though he could invite other members of the autistic community to the occasion.
“One of the biggest highlights of this year’s conference was its thoughtful approach to accessibility and comfort through various micro-accommodations. A standout was the fidget table, which provided attendees with sensory-friendly tools that helped ease focus and promote calm.”
“The conference also offered sensory-friendly lunch options like cheese and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches (which naturally Humanities 101 was a big fan of), catering to sensory sensitivities.”
“Additionally, a mobile sensory break room in the parking lot provided a private space for anyone needing a quiet moment away from the bustling conference environment.”
The conference even addressed accessibility issues for the disabled and autistic community related to income barriers. Unlike so many of the other conferences that require a flat rate for all attendees, the Milestones National Autism Conference charged on a sliding scale keeping in mind that those with disabilities are often not afforded the financial security that allows someone to budget in attending something like an academic conference, seminar, or convention.
Hearing from voices in the autistic community and those adjacent to the community is crucial to develop real world solutions to the ableism that disabled and autistic people face in their day-to-day lives. This conference did just that and its structure should be replicated.
The 2024 Milestones Conference was not only an educational resource but also a model for a neuro-inclusive event design, creating a welcoming and accessible experience for all.