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Find the registration form for our AAPLES training workshops here. The next training session will occur in February 2026.
The Autism Assessment for Preschoolers with Language Element Sequence (AAPLES) is a caregiver-administered, semi-structured, play-based virtual assessment tool. This clinician-directed approach will pull together toys/props that are commonly available in a typical home setting and provide specific opportunities for language demonstration.
Using this tool, clinicians will be able to map the observed responses, along with the parent report, developmental history, and medical background, onto the DSM-5 criteria for autism, to allow for both caregiver and clinician confidence in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder.
The AAPLES tool was developed by researchers and clinicians at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital in Edmonton (Dr. Lyn K. Sonnenberg, Dr. Lonnie Zwaigenbaum) and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto (Dr. Melanie Penner, Dr. Jessica Brian).
The AAPLES tool is currently only available in English. French, Spanish, and Arabic versions are in development.
We are currently inviting clinicians (including general pediatricians, family physicians, nurse practitioners, clinical psychologists, and psychiatrists) who are practicing in a community-based setting to participate in AAPLES training. We hope to support clinicians in conducting preschool developmental assessments in their practices.
About the AAPLES Training Workshop
About the AAPLES Training Workshop
Dr. Lonnie Zwaigenbaum
Dr. Sabrina Eliason
AAPLES training takes place virtually over 2 half-day workshops and is facilitated by Dr. Lonnie Zwaigenbaum and Dr. Sabrina Eliason, both developmental pediatricians at the Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital.
Training includes:
History taking, physical examinations in terms of completing comprehensive developmental assessments
Supporting development of clinical skills in observing social behaviour, communication, and restrictive, repetitive behaviours in preschool children
Discussion of integrating inclusive, patient-centred, strengths-based strategies into assessment and counselling
Application of DSM-V-TR criteria to diagnose autism
Discussion on navigating service/support systems, supporting family advocacy
We also include examples of report writing, a comprehensive AAPLES manual, materials for parents, and a fillable protocol for physicians' use.
If you are interested in participating in the next upcoming AAPLES training workshop, please fill out the form below and we will be in contact with you for more details.
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