Missed, Masked, and Misunderstood: Zainab El-Sibai Announced as Distinguished Speaker at the 5th World Pediatrics Summit, June 18–20, 2026
We are delighted to officially announce that Zainab El-Sibai, Educational Psychologist, United States, will be joining us as a distinguished speaker at the 5th World Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Emergency Pediatrics Care Summit & Exhibition, taking place from June 18–20, 2026, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
This prestigious CME/CPD-accredited global gathering brings together pediatricians, neonatologists, perinatologists, psychologists, emergency care professionals, researchers, educators, and healthcare leaders from around the world. With a shared mission to advance pediatric healthcare through evidence-based practice, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the summit continues to serve as a premier international platform for knowledge exchange and professional development.
Speech Title:
Missed, Masked, and Misunderstood: Rethinking Autism Assessment in Girls
Autism has long been viewed through a predominantly male lens. Diagnostic criteria, screening tools, and even clinical expectations have historically been shaped around how autism presents in boys. As a result, countless girls on the autism spectrum remain undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or diagnosed far later than their male peers.
In her highly anticipated session, Ms. El-Sibai will explore the critical gaps in traditional autism assessment frameworks and challenge professionals to reconsider how we evaluate neurodevelopmental differences in girls.
Why This Topic Matters Now More Than Ever
Research increasingly shows that autism in girls often presents differently from the “classic” diagnostic profile. Girls may:
Mask or camouflage social difficulties
Develop coping strategies that hide core symptoms
Exhibit socially acceptable restricted interests
Internalize distress rather than externalize behaviors
These differences frequently lead to girls being labeled as shy, anxious, sensitive, or even oppositional—rather than being evaluated for autism spectrum differences. Many are diagnosed only in adolescence or adulthood, often after years of mental health struggles, burnout, or misinterpretation.
Ms. El-Sibai’s presentation will examine:
Gender bias in diagnostic tools
The phenomenon of social masking and its psychological cost
The impact of late or missed diagnosis on mental health
Culturally responsive and inclusive assessment practices
Practical strategies for clinicians, educators, and pediatric professionals
Her session will be especially valuable for pediatricians, child psychologists, school counselors, developmental specialists, special educators, and emergency pediatric professionals who encounter neurodivergent children across various settings.
About Ms. Zainab El-Sibai
Zainab El-Sibai is a respected Educational Psychologist based in the United States with extensive experience in child development, psychoeducational assessment, and neurodiversity-affirming practices. Her work centers on equitable evaluation processes, early identification of developmental differences, and supporting families navigating complex diagnostic journeys.
She is widely recognized for advocating a strengths-based approach to autism and learning differences. Her professional focus includes:
Autism spectrum assessment
Neurodiversity-informed educational planning
Early intervention strategies
Special education advocacy
Mental health support for neurodivergent youth
Through clinical practice, professional training, and community outreach, Ms. El-Sibai has contributed to reshaping conversations around autism—particularly in girls and underrepresented populations.
Her presence at the 2026 summit underscores the event’s commitment to highlighting emerging research, inclusive clinical models, and global best practices in pediatric care.
Learn more about Ms. El-Sibai here: https://pediatrics.utilitarianconferences.com/speaker/ms-zainab-el-sibai
A Global Platform for Pediatric Advancement
The 5th World Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Emergency Pediatrics Care Summit & Exhibition continues to grow as a leading international conference dedicated to pediatric excellence.
Held in the vibrant city of Dubai, this three-day summit will feature:
Keynote lectures from global thought leaders
CME/CPD-accredited scientific sessions
Interactive panel discussions
Clinical case studies
Poster and oral research presentations
Industry exhibitions showcasing medical innovation
Participants will gain practical insights into neonatal care, perinatology advancements, pediatric emergency response, developmental health, mental health integration, and multidisciplinary collaboration.
The inclusion of sessions focused on autism assessment and neurodevelopment reflects the evolving understanding that pediatric care must be holistic—addressing not only physical health but also cognitive, emotional, and developmental well-being.
Bridging Pediatrics and Mental Health
One of the most powerful aspects of Ms. El-Sibai’s upcoming presentation is its interdisciplinary relevance. Autism assessment is not solely the domain of psychologists—it directly intersects with pediatric practice, early screening, emergency care, and school-based interventions.
Missed or misunderstood autism can lead to:
Anxiety and depression
School refusal or academic burnout
Social isolation
Misdiagnosed behavioral disorders
Crisis presentations in emergency settings
By recognizing subtle presentations in girls earlier, pediatric professionals can initiate timely referrals, supportive care pathways, and family education—dramatically improving long-term outcomes.
Her session invites healthcare professionals to move beyond checkbox diagnostics and adopt a more nuanced, developmentally informed, and gender-sensitive framework.
Advancing Inclusive Pediatric Care
As healthcare continues to evolve toward patient-centered and culturally responsive models, conversations about neurodiversity are becoming central to pediatric practice worldwide.
This summit offers an important opportunity to:
Update clinical knowledge
Earn CME/CPD credits
Network with international experts
Engage in evidence-based discussions
Explore emerging pediatric research
Strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration
Professionals attending from across continents will contribute to a dynamic exchange of ideas aimed at improving pediatric outcomes globally.
Join Us in Dubai – June 18–20, 2026
We invite pediatricians, psychologists, nurses, researchers, therapists, educators, policy makers, and healthcare leaders to be part of this transformative event.
📍 Location: Dubai, UAE 📅 Dates: June 18–20, 2026
Secure your place today: https://pediatrics.utilitarianconferences.com/registration
WhatsApp Contact: https://wa.me/+971551792927
Be Part of the Conversation That Changes Lives
Autism in girls has long been missed, masked, and misunderstood. By rethinking assessment frameworks and challenging outdated assumptions, we can move toward earlier identification, stronger support systems, and better mental health outcomes for neurodivergent children.
The 5th World Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Emergency Pediatrics Care Summit & Exhibition promises to be a landmark event in advancing inclusive pediatric care. With expert voices like Zainab El-Sibai leading critical discussions, attendees will leave empowered with knowledge, tools, and renewed commitment to equitable child healthcare.
We look forward to welcoming you to Dubai for three days of innovation, collaboration, and global impact.
