Family Empowerment Courses
At Autism Practical Support (APS), we understand that raising a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming at times. Our parent training sessions are created by parents, for parents, offering practical strategies, guidance, and a space where you feel understood and supported every step of the way.
"The course has given me the tools to manage my child’s behaviour. I have also learnt some valuable tips from other parents for coping strategies that they use.”
The APS team understands the challenges faced by parents and carers of autistic children and young people. With our lived experience and specialist knowledge, we recognise the realities at every stage of development and offer practical, meaningful support. We deliver in‑person and online training courses designed by parents, offering practical tools and guidance for navigating the journey of raising autistic children.
APS has been commissioned to offer FREE autism parent training programmes for residents in Northwich, Winsford, Chester, Rural Cheshire and Ellesmere Port, on behalf of the NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board (ICB).The 6 week course is for parents or carers of children aged 0-25 who are on the pathway to diagnosis or that have recently received an autism diagnosis, and are registered with a Cheshire West and Chester GP.
We also offer programmes for parents outside of Chester and Cheshire West for a small cost - speak to our team for more details!
Family Empowerment Course - Programme Content
Week 1: Introduction to Autism
- What is Autism?
- Understanding the autism spectrum and neurodiversity
- Understanding each Parent’s Story
Week 2: Behaviour
- Understanding and supporting challenging behaviour
- Common interaction challenges and how to address them
- Tools for fostering understanding and connection
Week 3: Sensory Processing
- Exploring sensory differences in autism
- Practical strategies to create sensory-friendly environments
- Case studies and best practices for sensory support
Week 4: Communication and Interaction
- Understanding all communication
- Strategies to manage and support individuals effectively
- Real-life examples and interventions
Week 5: Support Strategies
- Advice on implementing support strategies
- Resource signposting for additional support and guidance
- Tailored Support
Week 6: Parent Wellbeing Support
- Understanding how to manage expectations
- Resources and support available for parents
- Recap of key strategies
- Final Q&A session
Format: In-person or online courses delivered in Chester, Ellesmere Port, Northwich, and Winsford in either daytime or evening.
Duration: 2 hour sessions each week or can be adapted for a full day training session
Specialist Sessions
We also offer a range of specialist sessions designed to support families with more specific areas of need, providing practical, compassionate guidance that can make a real difference in everyday life. Topics include:
Autism and Girls – understanding how autism can present differently and is often missed
Navigating EHCP's – building confidence and clarity around the process and your rights
PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) – supportive, low-demand approaches that work in practice
Sleep – strategies to help improve routines and reduce stress around sleep
Mental Health – supporting emotional wellbeing for both children and parents
Supporting Behaviour – understanding the ‘why’ behind behaviour and responding in a positive, effective way
Each session is grounded in real-life experience, with a focus on practical strategies you can learn and use straight away. Contact our team for more information about our specialist courses and what dates are coming up.
If your child is registered with a Cheshire West or Chester GP and you would like to sign up for our free 6-week course, please fill in the form below:
Get in Touch
For further details on any of our Family Empowerment Courses, please speak to our team and we'd be happy to help:
Email: info@autismpracticalsupport.org.uk
Call: 0344 850 8607
We’d love to hear from you!
