Supporting a Person with Autism: Behaviour as Communication

A practical workshop for parents and support teams to understand autism, behaviour as communication and the “why” behind escalation. When behaviour becomes intense, confusing or difficult to respond to, it is rarely happening “out of nowhere”. It may be the clearest way a person can communicate that they are anxious, overwhelmed, overloaded, confused or not feeling understood. This practical four-hour workshop invites parents and support teams to look beyond the behaviour and ask a more helpful question: “I wonder why?” Presented by Tanya Curtis, Behaviour Change Expert and Specialist Approved Behaviour Support Practitioner, this session provides a respectful and practical framework for understanding behaviour and responding in ways that support safety, connection and lasting change. What You’ll Learn • How to recognise behaviour as communication • Common reasons behind escalation, including anxiety, sensory overload and confusion • How communication differences can affect what is said, heard and understood • Practical ways to create greater clarity and predictability • What can help during moments of escalation • How to support repair, learning and skill-building afterwards • Ways to create greater consistency across home, school and support settings Who This Workshop Is For This workshop is designed for parents, carers, family members, support workers, educators and other team members supporting a person with Autism Spectrum Disorder, whether formally diagnosed or not. No previous behaviour-support training is required. The aim is not to label, control or change who a person is. It is to better understand how they experience the world, recognise what they may be communicating and provide support that is clear, consistent and respectful. Event Details Date: Sunday 22 November 2026 Time: 10:00 am–2:30 pm Location: Melbourne Break: Includes a 30-minute drink break Leave with practical tools, a clearer understanding of behaviour and greater confidence in supporting the person in front of you.