Autism in the Wild

Program Overview

Through the collaboration efforts of professional first responders, autism subject matter experts and pediatric therapy providers, The ISAAC Foundation has developed a community-based first responder training program: Autism in the Wild.  

Autism in the Wild is a practical, scenario-based training designed to improve first responder interactions with individuals navigating autism, rare disorders, and developmental delays. The program focuses on recognizing what behavior communicates during emergencies and applying effective strategies that improve safety, reduce escalation, and support better outcomes for everyone involved.

 

 

Why This Training Matters

• Autism, rare disorders, and developmental delays are often invisible

• Behaviors may be misinterpreted as noncompliance, defiance, or intoxication

• Misunderstanding increases the risk of escalation and injury

• Informed response improves safety, communication, and trust

Who This Training Serves

• Law Enforcement

• Fire Service

• EMS

• Search & Rescue

• Behavior Response Units

• Crisis Intervention Teams

• Supervisors and Command Staff

 

 

AIW Trailer from The ISAAC Foundation on Vimeo.

Core Training Components

Participants learn to:

• Recognize behavioral cues related to autism, rare disorders, and developmental delays

• Understand how sensory overload impacts behavior and decision-making

• Apply effective communication strategies during high-stress encounters

• Use sensory profiles to support safer, more successful interactions

• Reduce escalation risk while maintaining scene safety

Training Formats and Rates

3-Hour Training

$1,000

Best suited for multi-session training days or agencies with time constraints.

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Two 3-Hour Trainings in One Day

(Example: 0900–1200 and 1300–1600)

$1,600 Total

A reduced rate is offered when multiple sessions are scheduled on the same day at the same location.

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4-Hour Training

$1,400

Designed for in-depth learning without time pressure. Ideal for single-day agency trainings.

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Testimonials

“This will be a very helpful tool in dealing w/individuals on the ASD spectrum. I was definitely skeptical initially, but I am now excited at the prospect of the station visits.”

“Very well organized and presented. Both instructors worked great together presenting the material.”

“Excellent Instructors able to bring their personal experience to the class and explain the ‘why’.”

"Great start. Gave a level of awareness that will help me better serve the most vulnerable people in our community. Very nice job with this program. This type of training can relate to a large group of people that we interact with on a daily basis, whether they have ASD or not. As a fire service we want to train with ladders and hose but we often fail to train on how to deal with people. Thanks so much."

"Great class. I was unaware of how to approach some of these situations. I now feel better prepared. THANK YOU!"

 

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