TRIAD Families First Program

TRIAD’s Families First Program is a free program for caregivers of young children (ages 2-7) newly diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The primary goal is to equip caregivers with practical tools to support their child, to provide resources to more easily apply strategy and planning ideas, and to give caregivers an opportunity to meet other caregivers with similar questions or concerns. For more information about the Families First Program, please review our recent 10-year summary [PDF].

Registration is required. Virtual log-in information will be provided once you have registered.

  • Monday, May 20, 2024
    Creating and Implementing Visual Supports [Virtual]
    12:00-1:00pm CST
    This webinar will provide you with information regarding how to use visual supports with your child, support in developing a plan for using the visual supports, and materials to create the supports.
  • Monday, June 24, 2024
    Neurodiversity [Virtual]
    12:00-1:00pm CST
    This webinar will provide strategies for parents and caregivers to support their neurodiverse children in academic, social, and home settings. Topics covered include understanding neurodiversity and fostering positive relationships.

Previous webinar recordings and quick tip videos are available here organized by topic. Webinars are posted as they’re completed so continue to check back for new updates.

We now have a Families First online community group within our portal! This is a place where we will highlight some of the resources being shared this month and provide a chance to ask us questions about them.

This month our focus has been on toilet training. Follow the steps below to access the online community group and ask a question or download a resource!

  1. Login to triad.vkclearning.org
  2. Click "Community" then "My Groups" on the left side of your screen
  3. Find and click Families First Caregiver Resource Group
  4. Click Join Group
  5. See the pinned discussion board for information about group guidelines
  6. Comment Agree after reading guidelines
  7. Use the discussion board! Ask questions or seek clarification on posted resources!

Need help? Watch the screen capture video below on how to access the online community group

TRIAD offers free Brief Online Training Sessions (BOTS) to provide information on evidence-based practices for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Check our online learning portal to access these free trainings and resources on topics designed for parents and other caregivers! To access, register at: triad.vkclearning.org following the instructions below. If you already have an online learning account login here.

  1. Go to triad.vkclearning.org
  2. Create a free account by clicking on "Register." You will create a username and password. Fill out the form and select "TRIAD" under “Choose the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center Division for Course Access”. You will receive an email verification. Once you do, click the link to verify your account and log in.
  3. Click on "Caregivers" to access the Caregiver Training Modules or on another category to access other BOTs.
  4. Click the course you’d like to view
  5. Click the right arrow to launch

Need help?

Contact Information

Local: (615) 322-7565
Toll-free: (877) ASD-VUMC (273-8862)
E-mail: families.first@vumc.org