For children who have siblings with Autism Spectrum Disorder, those first, developmental years of their lives are marked with a unique experience of working with and coming to understand those with disabilities.

A free workshop and fun day for kids who have siblings with disabilities will take place Saturday in the Berry College Krannert Ballroom from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The workshop is free for ages 7-15 and workshop-goers may either bring a brown bag lunch or pay $5 for a Chick-fil-A lunch.

Headed by Michelle Haney, associate professor of psychology at Berry College, the “Sibshop” will be a special celebration and time to learn from other kids who have siblings with disabilities and reflects a belief that brothers and sisters have much to offer one another if they are given a chance. Sibshops are a spirited mix of new games, new friends, and discussion activities.

Haney’s book, “Understanding Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders,” explores the dynamics of children with autism and their families.

“I created it as a teaching tool for my students interested in working with children who have autism, and their families,” Haney said. “My Berry College students represent many professional areas including therapists and psychologists, educators, occupational and physical therapists, speech language pathologists, doctors, lawyers, and family/children advocates working in the nonprofits. I believe this text is appropriate for anyone interested in learning more about autism and how to support children with autism and their families.”

Haney said her book includes interviews with parents of children with autism, scientists and researchers in this field, test developers, and educators working with families and children with autism. Several of these parent and educators are from Rome. The book also features an interview with Temple Grandin’s mother, Eustacia Grandin.

“As awareness about ASD increases and prevalence rates of ASD soar, there is a need for all educators and professionals working with children with ASD and their families to understand a wide range of topics associated with ASD,” Haney said.

As children with ASD are incredibly complex and diverse, the text helps introduce educators and professionals to choosing interventions, teaming with parents to provide optimal educational opportunities, and the personal/profes- sional growth that is likely to take place during such a journey.

Although the text provides a research-based overview of autism within a theoretical framework that addresses key issues for both children and adults with ASD, the text emphasizes diagnosis, intervention, and support issues most germane to families with children and adolescents.

“This book is significantly different from others on the market because of the organizing theme recognizing the necessity of collaboration with families to effectively meet the needs of children with ASD,” Haney said.

For more information about registering for the Sibshop or “Understanding Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders,” contact Haney at mhaney@berry.edu or Jennifer Tumlin Garrett at 678-923-4185 or jennifergarret@gsu.edu.