Free Webinar | Parenting Through the School Holidays

Plan for a more settled summer break, for the whole family.

School gives many autistic children the structure they rely on. When it stops for summer, that structure goes with it. Routines change. Holiday events and family gatherings can lead to sensory overload. And you’re keeping your child engaged without school supports, often while balancing work, siblings and your own wellbeing.

Speech Pathologist Sue Marden and Psychologist and Certified Behaviour Analyst Karen McKinnon will show you how to build a holiday plan that works for your family.

What we'll cover

• Creating a flexible holiday routine your child can predict
• Using visual schedules to show what each day holds
• Preparing your child for changes and events over the break
• Getting ready for Christmas, family gatherings and outings
• Managing sensory overload at holiday events
• Handling meltdowns calmly when hard moments happen
• Looking after yourself as a parent over the break

You’ll leave with simple ways to keep days predictable, prepare your child for what’s ahead, and stay calm if things become difficult. So the break feels more settled for everyone.

Webinar details

When: Wednesday 9 December 2026, 12pm AEDT

Where: Zoom

Cost: Free

Q&A: Yes, live session included. Have your questions ready.

Recording: Available to all registered attendees

Can’t join live? Register anyway and you’ll get the recording.

Register now

Meet our speakers

Sue Marden, Host

Sue is a Speech Pathologist with 40 years’ experience and a strong focus on parent training. She’s spent more than 30 years working with autistic children and their families. Sue is the founder of Anywhere Speech Pathology.

Karen McKinnon, Speaker

Karen is the National Clinical Director at Autism Partnership and a Psychologist and Certified Behaviour Analyst with three decades of experience. Her work centres around her belief that autistic children and families deserve every possible opportunity in life.

Proudly supported by

This webinar is proudly supported by Autism Aspergers Advocacy Australia (A4), a national, volunteer-led organisation representing autistic people, their families, carers and associates. We thank A4 for supporting this webinar.