GCCA 2026 Fall Series: Autism & Play in Early Learning

Autism & Play in Early Learning

Practical Strategies Every Early Learning Professional Can Use

Saturday, October 10, 2026
8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Virtual | DECAL Application for Credit Is In Process

Every child deserves to belong. Every teacher deserves the tools to make that happen.

Today's early childhood classrooms are more diverse than ever. Many teachers are supporting children with autism, developmental delays, sensory differences, or challenging behaviors—often without the practical training they need.

Join Dr. Sheila Thompson of Mercer University for an engaging, real-world training designed specifically for early childhood educators.

You'll discover how purposeful play can become one of your most effective teaching tools—not only for children with autism, but for every child in your classroom.

Rather than focusing on theory, you'll leave with practical strategies you can begin using on Monday morning.

During this session, you'll learn how to:

• Create play experiences that encourage communication, social interaction, and learning

• Better understand how children with autism experience the classroom

• Support children with different developmental needs without disrupting your daily routine

• Build more inclusive classrooms where every child can participate and thrive

• Recognize developmental differences earlier and respond with confidence

• Strengthen partnerships with families through greater understanding and communication

Why you don't want to miss this

Children learn best through play—but not every child plays, communicates, or interacts in the same way.

When teachers understand how to intentionally use play to support development, classrooms become calmer, relationships become stronger, and children gain more opportunities to succeed.

Whether you currently have a child with autism in your classroom, suspect developmental differences, or simply want to become a stronger educator, this training will give you practical tools that benefit every child you teach.

Perfect for:

• Teachers

• Assistant Teachers

• Directors

• Curriculum Specialists

• Family Child Care Providers

• Anyone committed to creating inclusive, high-quality early learning environments

Walk away with practical strategies, renewed confidence, and ideas you can use immediately to create classrooms where every child can learn, play, and thrive.

This conference is FREE for teachers of Center Plus Members and for Individual Teacher Members of GCCA.

Check with your administration to determine whether your center is a Center or Center Plus Member of GCCA before registering:

• Center Plus Members can add their teachers to their school profile to register for this conference at no additional cost-follow these easy steps for updating your teacher profile

• Individual Teacher Members can log in to register at no cost as well

• Center Members or nonmembers can register for just $49.

If you have any questions or challenges in logging in or registering, e-mail admin@georgiachildcare.org for assistance.