The Autism Helper Podcast

Sasha Long, M.A., BCBA
  • 4.8 (475)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The Autism Helper Podcast, where we explore different strategies to improve the lives of individuals with autism.

  1. Episode 356: Teaching the Same Skill Across Multiple Levels

    4D AGO

    Episode 356: Teaching the Same Skill Across Multiple Levels

    Teaching in real classrooms often means one activity and many different skill levels. In this episode, we break down how to teach the same core skill across students with varying communication, attention, and independence needs - without always running five separate lessons. You’ll learn how to identify the non-negotiable learning target, change the response instead of the skill, and embed instruction into shared activities like small groups, routines, and daily classroom tasks. We’ll also talk through common pitfalls, how over-modifying can water down instruction, and why alignment across staff reduces burnout and confusion. If you’re looking for a way to individualize instruction while keeping your classroom running smoothly, this episode is for you. ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    17 min
  2. Episode 355: Getting Buy-In From Staff Without More Meetings

    MAR 2

    Episode 355: Getting Buy-In From Staff Without More Meetings

    Getting staff buy-in doesn’t have to mean adding another meeting to everyone’s already packed schedule. In this episode, we break down realistic, low-effort strategies to build trust, consistency, and follow-through, even when you don’t have the time. Learn how to communicate expectations clearly, use systems instead of reminders, and create shared ownership so staff feel confident and supported. If you’re leading a team and want buy-in that actually sticks (minus the calendar invites), this episode is for you. ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    13 min
  3. Episode 354: What “Accessing the Curriculum” Actually Means

    FEB 23

    Episode 354: What “Accessing the Curriculum” Actually Means

    “Accessing the curriculum” is a phrase used constantly in special education, but it’s often left undefined. In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we break down what curriculum access really means beyond just being present in the classroom. You’ll learn how meaningful engagement, intentional instruction, and flexible ways for students to show learning are key to true access - and how to move from vague language to practical strategies that support real progress. 
Learn more about Curriculum Access, our highly differentiated curriculum, here - https://theautismhelper.com/curriculum-access/ ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    15 min
  4. Episode 353: Creating Systems That Survive Staff Turnover

    FEB 16

    Episode 353: Creating Systems That Survive Staff Turnover

    Staff turnover is a reality in special education - but losing effective systems doesn’t have to be. In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re talking about how to create systems that survive staff turnover and keep student supports consistent, even during times of change. From instructional routines and behavior support to data collection and communication, you’ll learn how to move away from “systems that live in one person’s head” and toward clear, documented processes your whole team can follow. Whether you’re short-staffed, onboarding new team members, or planning ahead for future transitions, this episode will help you build sustainable systems that support staff, reduce burnout, and, most importantly, provide consistency for your students. ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    19 min
  5. Episode 352: Creating a Man-Down Schedule

    FEB 9

    Episode 352: Creating a Man-Down Schedule

    Short-staffed days happen - and they don’t have to feel like total chaos. In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re talking all about Man-Down Schedules: how to create a realistic, flexible schedule for those “all hands are not on deck” days so you can still support students and protect staff sanity. We’ll walk through ways to rework groups, build in additional break time, and prioritize what really needs to happen so you feel prepared instead of reactive when staffing is tight. This episode is all about planning ahead to reduce stress, maintain consistency, and keep classrooms running smoothly - even when the plan changes. ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    8 min
  6. Episode 351: When “What’s the Function?” Isn’t the Right Question

    FEB 2

    Episode 351: When “What’s the Function?” Isn’t the Right Question

    Behavior rarely has just one “why.” In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we break down multiply controlled behaviors - what they are, how they show up in classrooms, and why behavior plans often fall short when only one function is addressed. You’ll learn how to recognize when multiple variables are influencing behavior and walk away with practical ways to design more effective, compassionate supports for autistic students. ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    12 min
  7. Episode 350: What To Do When Students Rip Off Schedules?

    JAN 26

    Episode 350: What To Do When Students Rip Off Schedules?

    Visual schedules are a powerful tool for decreasing problem behavior, but what should you do when students start ripping them? In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we break down why schedules are an essential strategy and why visual schedules are a must in structured classrooms and therapy settings. Schedule ripping isn’t a sign that schedules don’t work - it’s communication that something needs adjusting. We walk through four practical strategies to address this behavior while keeping schedules in place. First, we discuss the importance of conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) to understand the function behind the ripping. Next, we explore how establishing strong rapport can reduce power struggles and increase student buy-in. We also share how to fade in schedule use by starting with preferred activities, and finally, how small changes to the physical setup of a schedule can make ripping more effortful and less likely. This episode focuses on strengthening - not removing - visual schedules so they continue to support independence, predictability, and positive behavior. ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    14 min
  8. Episode 349: Encore Episode: Deescalation Strategies that Work

    JAN 19

    Episode 349: Encore Episode: Deescalation Strategies that Work

    When a child is in crisis mode, they are not ready to learn. In a meltdown situation, our goal as the adult is to keep the child safe and reflect on how to prevent this in the future. In this episode, we explore what to do in an episode of explosive behavior. We go through the 6 steps of de-escalation on how to safely move the child through the episode. Our role is to maintain safety and provide support without damaging rapport. Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation ---------------------------------------------- Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/ Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/ Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/ Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper Stay up to date on all things Autism Helper by downloading our new, FREE app! Available on both the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-autism-helper/id1557724340 & Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mightybell.theautismhelper&hl=en_US&gl=US Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper. Our Sponsors: * Check out Factor: https://factormeals.com/sasha50off Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    19 min
See All (356)

4.8
out of 5
475 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Autism Helper Podcast, where we explore different strategies to improve the lives of individuals with autism.

Information

  • Creator
    Sasha Long, M.A., BCBA
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    356
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Autism Helper
  • Show Website
    The Autism Helper Podcast

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