Cool Kids ASD Program
The Cool Kids ASD Program is a cognitive behavioural therapy program developed to teach children on the autism spectrum and their parents skills that address anxiety disorders.
The program is designed to teach children and parents skills to manage anxiety in everyday situations. The original program has been adapted to suit the learning style and challenges that arise for children who are on the autism spectrum.
The treatment program is conducted in 12 sessions over approximately 4 months. Each session lasts 2 hours with some time spent focused on the children, some with the parents and time with parents and children together.
Specific sessions look at elements such as understanding anxiety, relaxation, parenting strategies that encourage brave behaviour, identifying and using helpful (realistic) thoughts, and facing fears, building independence and increasing confidence through stepladders (gradual exposure).
Groups may be facilitated by psychologists, clinical psychologists or provisional (intern) psychologists who have had specialised training in the ASD adaptation of the Cool Kids Program.
The Cool Kids Program and the Cool Kids ASD program were developed at Macquarie University, Australia.
About This Glossary
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The fact that an intervention is listed in this glossary does not necessarily mean that we agree with its use. Nor does it necessarily mean that there is any scientifically valid or reliable evidence behind it.