Kluth, Paula

Paula Kluth is a consultant, teacher, author, advocate, and independent scholar who works with teachers and families to provide inclusive opportunities for students with disabilities and to create more responsive and engaging schooling experiences for all learners. Her research and professional interests include differentiating instruction, and supporting students with autism and significant disabilities in inclusive classrooms.

Paula is a former special educator who has served as a classroom teacher, consulting teacher, and inclusion facilitator. She works with teachers in K-12 schools, pre-schools, and early intervention programs. She also regularly works with family organizations and disability-rights and advocacy groups.

She is the author of “You’re Going to Love This Kid”: Teaching Students with Autism in the Inclusive Classroom; the lead editor of Access to Academics: Critical Approaches to Inclusive Curriculum, Instruction, and Policy, and the co-author of “Just Give Him The Whale!” 20 Ways to Use Fascinations, Areas of Expertise, and Strengths to Support Students with Autism and “A Land We Can Share”: Teaching Literacy to Students with Autism and these two upcoming texts: Joyful Learning: Active and Collaborative Structures for the Inclusive Classroom and You’re Welcome: 30 Innovative Ideas for Inclusive Schools.

 “You’re Going to Love This Kid”: Teaching & Supporting Children on the Spectrum

This interactive presentation features group activities, real-world stories, and tools you can use immediately. Participants will learn practical ways of supporting those with autism spectrum labels & other disabilities in schools, at home, and in communities. Topics addressed include defining (and redefining) autism, listening to the voices of those with autism, creating more active and responsive lessons, and providing opportunities for communication and social skill development. Another special focus of the day will be how to build on an individual’s strengths, special interests, and abilities.