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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].

Due to Vanderbilt's restrictions on large group activities, our live workshops are on hold until further notice. See below for what we are offering virtually at this time. Additional virtual resources can be found here.

Quick Tip Videos  ▼

This spring, Families First will highlight a topic of interest each month, with new resources posted the first Friday of each month. This month’s Families First theme is toilet training. Check out our 3-minute Quick Tips video below and look for new resources posted each Friday.

Have questions about toilet training your child? Submit your anonymous questions by 5/21 and we will answer them in our Ask an Expert segment at the end of the month: https://redcap.link/AskExpert_May

Toilet Training [May 7, 2021]


Teaching Social Communication Skills! [April 2, 2021]

View Ask an Expert - April


Making Engagement F.U.N. [March 5, 2021]

View Ask an Expert - March


Creating a Visual Schedule [February 5, 2021]

View Ask an Expert - February


Setting up for Success [January 8, 2021]

Strategies to set your child up for success throughout the day.
View Ask an Expert - January

Archived Webinars  ▼

This series has previous webinars recorded available here. Webinars are posted as they’re completed so continue to check back for new updates.

Online Learning  ▼

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 the doorway. 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 "open" for the series you would like to watch.
  5. Click "launch" for the training you want to watch and enjoy!

Need help?

Contact Information

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

⇦ Return to TRIAD services for families of children with autism