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DEC Conference Features FPG Director Odom

DEC Conference Features FPG Director Odom

October 5, 2015

On Friday, October 9, 12:45-1:30 PM, the 31st Annual International Division for Early Childhood (DEC) Conference will feature a special session from FPG director Samuel L. Odom. In “Early Childhood Intervention at 50: Where Do We Go From Here?” Odom will highlight the contributions of FPG and three other centers to the evolution of practice, the potential effects these contributions have had on generations of children and families, and directions for future research. 

Odom’s own institute will celebrate its 50th birthday next year. Since its inception in 1966, FPG’s research, evaluation, technical assistance, outreach, and service have shaped how the nation cares for and educates young children. Today, FPG is one of the country's oldest and largest multidisciplinary centers dedicated both to the study of young children and their families and to applying research-based solutions to real-world situations.

Odom (right) has authored or co-authored more than 100 publications and edited or co-edited 10 books on early childhood intervention and developmental disabilities. Over the years, his research has focused on early childhood inclusion and preschool readiness, but more recently he has concentrated on autism spectrum disorder. He was principal investigator of the National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorder, which in 2014 released the seminal report Evidence-based Practices for Children, Youth, and Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. FPG scientists spearheaded that project, screening 29,000 articles about autism to locate the soundest research on interventions for children from birth to age 22.

Currently, Odom is principal investigator of the Center on Secondary Education for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder, a multi-site collaboration between FPG and several universities. He also serves on other FPG projects, including as principal investigator for the ASD Toddler Initiative: Promoting the Use of Evidence-Based Practices for Toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

The Division for Early Childhood (DEC) promotes policies and advances evidence-based practices that support families and enhance the optimal development of young children (0-8) who have or are at risk for developmental delays and disabilities. DEC is an international membership organization for those who work with or on behalf of young children with disabilities and other special needs and their families. The theme of this year’s conference evokes the words of Martin Luther King: “The Time Is Always Right to Do What Is Right” for Young Children and Families. According to conference organizers, in addition to Odom, other leading experts from around the globe also will discuss salient topics in early intervention, early childhood special education, and related disciplines.

Conference program