Mango Tree Learning Collective

The Mango Tree Learning Collective is a community-centered program offering education, support, and connection for families and individuals navigating autism and neurodiversity. Through workshops, support groups, trainings, and online learning opportunities, the Collective brings together expert guidance and practical resources in a warm, accessible environment designed to empower and support families at every stage.

Understanding Autism & Early Development Workshop Series

The Understanding Autism & Early Development Workshop Series brings families, professionals, and community partners together to build knowledge, practical skills, and confidence in supporting autistic children and their families.

Presented by Mango Tree Center in collaboration with Project LAUNCH, Children With Special Health Needs Branch, Hawaiʻi Department of Health, this four-part series offers accessible, research-informed education on autism and early childhood development. Workshops explore the foundations of autism, behavior and regulation, diagnosis and service pathways, and effective advocacy and communication.

Each workshop combines current research with practical, real-world information you can use. Sessions are interactive and include a companion workbook, community resources, and dedicated time for questions and discussion with autism specialists.

Whether you are a parent or caregiver learning about autism for the first time, an educator or healthcare professional, or a community provider supporting children and families, you are welcome to join us.

Workshops are offered at no cost to participants. Participants can join us in person in Honolulu, or via Youtube livestream. 

Workshop 1: Autism 101

Build a foundation for understanding autism through current research on development, biology, early signs, and developmental differences. We’ll also explore common myths and current controversies, with practical guidance for distinguishing evidence-based information from misinformation. Presented by Maya Matheis, PhD, licensed clinical psychologist.

Details:

• • Friday, October 2, 2026
  • 9 AM – 11 AM
  • Terminal 1 Conference Center at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
  • Validated parking available
  • Attend in-person or via Youtube livestream

Workshop 2: Behavior, Regulation & Connection

Learn to understand behavior through a developmental lens and explore the roles of communication, sensory differences, and emotional regulation. This workshop will introduce practical, evidence-informed strategies for responding to behavior, supporting regulation, and strengthening connection with children. Presented by Bethann Paul, BCBA, LBA.

Details:

• • • • • Friday, November 6, 2026
          
        • 9 AM – 11 AM
        • Terminal 1 Conference Center at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
        • Validated parking available
        • Attend in-person or via Youtube livestream

Workshop 3: Diagnosis & Service Pathways

What happens when autism is suspected—and what comes next after a diagnosis? This workshop will walk participants through the autism diagnostic process, including what clinicians consider when making a diagnosis and how to understand diagnostic results. We’ll also explore the different service and support pathways available to children and families, with practical guidance for navigating next steps and connecting with appropriate resources. Presented by Yuji Kim, PhD, licensed clinical psychologist.

Details:

• • • • • Friday, January 22, 2027
          
        • 9 AM – 11 AM
        • Attend in-person or via Youtube livestream

Workshop 4: Advocacy & Effective Communication

Build the knowledge and communication skills needed to advocate effectively for a child across healthcare, education, and community settings. Participants will learn strategies for asking questions, communicating concerns, preparing for important conversations, and partnering confidently with the professionals and systems supporting their child. Presented by Dr. Kelsey Oliver, BCBA & Assistant Professor of Special Education at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa.

Details:

• • • • • Friday, March 5, 2027
          
        • 9 AM – 11 AM
        • Attend in-person or via Youtube livestream