Teaching Autism and Special Education by Nikki

Teaching Autism

Hi, I’m Nikki —a passionate special educator, autism specialist, and founder of Teaching Autism. With over a decade of experience creating hands-on, engaging resources for educators worldwide, I’m here to make your teaching journey easier, more effective, and a lot more fun! With each episode, I’ll bring you practical tips, creative strategies, and inspiring insights to help you thrive in your autism and special education classroom. From tackling behavior challenges to creating meaningful lesson plans, we’ll dive deep into what works—and what doesn’t—in the world of special education. You’ll find: ✅ Real-world strategies you can use tomorrow. ✅ Expert advice for creating inclusive, student-centered classrooms. ✅ Honest conversations about the joys and challenges of teaching. ✅ Plenty of laughs, relatable moments, and inspiration to keep you going. Whether you’re a seasoned educator, new to special education, or simply looking to level up your teaching game, this podcast is your go-to resource for empowering yourself and your students. Join me on this journey, and let’s build better classrooms together! Hit “subscribe” and tune in to each episode to fill your teaching toolbox with fresh ideas, tools, and motivation. Let’s make teaching less stressful and a whole lot more impactful!

  1. 16H AGO

    Noise, Light, and Movement: How the Environment Impacts Behavior

    In this episode of Teaching Autism & Special Education with Nikki, we’re talking about something that’s often missed in behavior conversations - the environment. Because sometimes it’s not the reward system, the visual schedule, or the strategy that’s causing the behavior. Sometimes… it’s the noise, the lighting, or the constant movement around a student. And once you start seeing behavior through a sensory lens, everything shifts. In this episode, we talk about: Why students react to the environment, not the lesson plan What sensory overload actually does to the brain Why behavior often shows up after lunch, assemblies, or busy transitions How everyday classroom noise can overwhelm sensitive nervous systems Simple ways to soften sound and create quieter spaces Why fluorescent lighting can trigger headaches, fatigue, and shutdowns Easy lighting changes that make a huge difference Why movement isn’t misbehavior... it’s regulation How to support movement without chaos How to do a quick sensory audit of your classroom Small, low-cost changes that improve regulation What to do in the moment when a student is overstimulated Why student voice matters when designing sensory spaces Big takeaways: Behavior is often a sensory response Overstimulated brains can’t access learning Predictability and sensory safety reduce behavior Small environmental changes can have big impact Regulation always comes before instruction If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing all the right things and behavior is still escalating, this episode will help you zoom out and look at what’s happening around your students, not just what’s happening in front of them. 🎧 Listen in and let’s talk about how to create classrooms that feel calmer, safer, and more supportive for every nervous system.

    12 min

  2. FEB 13

    The Truth About Reinforcement: Motivation vs. Manipulation

    In this episode of Teaching Autism & Special Education with Nikki, we’re talking about reinforcement.. and why it can feel so uncomfortable sometimes. Because yes, reinforcement works. But it can also start to feel like bribery… or like we’re controlling students instead of supporting them. So let’s clear the air. This episode is all about how to use reinforcement in a way that feels ethical, respectful, and empowering, not manipulative. In this episode, we unpack: What reinforcement actually is (and what it’s not) Why everyone is motivated by reinforcement... not just our students The real difference between motivation and manipulation Why reinforcement can feel “wrong” even when it’s effective How intrinsic motivation develops (hint: it comes after success) What ethical reinforcement really looks like in practice The problem with overusing tokens and sticker systems How to make reinforcement predictable instead of anxiety-provoking Why natural reinforcement is so powerful Why communication should always be reinforced... even refusal How to reinforce effort and progress instead of perfection What to do when reinforcement suddenly stops working How to fade reinforcement without removing support How to talk about reinforcement with families Big takeaways: Reinforcement isn’t about control, it’s about cause and effect If a student feels safe and empowered, it’s motivation If a student feels pressured or trapped, it’s manipulation Reinforcement should build independence, not dependence Connection should always outlast the reward If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re “doing reinforcement right,” felt uncomfortable with token systems, or worried about creating reward-dependent students, this episode will help you rethink reinforcement in a way that actually aligns with your values. 🎧 Listen in and let’s talk about how to use reinforcement as a bridge... not a bargaining chip.

    11 min

  3. FEB 6

    What To Do When a Student Refuses Everything

    In this episode of Teaching Autism & Special Education with Nikki, we’re talking about refusal... the kind where you plan everything perfectly and your student still says “no”… or shuts down completely. Arms crossed. Under the table. Straight to the calm corner before you’ve even started. If you’ve ever thought, “But they can do this… why are they refusing again?” ....  this episode is for you. Because refusal isn’t defiance. It’s communication. In this episode, we talk about: Why refusal is almost never personal What refusal is really telling you about a student’s nervous system How demand anxiety shows up in the classroom How to spot patterns behind chronic refusal Why pushing harder usually makes things worse How to lower demands without giving up completely The power of choice, control, and predictability How visuals reduce anxiety around tasks Ways to use student interests to re-engage Why connection comes before redirection “Side door” strategies that reduce power struggles Why reinforcing attempts matters more than finishing How to figure out the function of refusal When to gently nudge and when to pause completely Why consistency between home and school really matters Big takeaways: Refusal is a protective response, not bad behavior A dysregulated brain can’t learn Safety and predictability come before compliance Small steps count (a lot) Relationship always beats control If you’re supporting students who refuse work, shut down, avoid tasks, or seem overwhelmed by everything, this episode will help you rethink refusal and respond in a way that actually works, without turning your day into a constant power struggle. 🎧 Listen in and let’s talk about how to support refusal with calm, compassion, and strategies that respect the nervous system.

    11 min

  4. JAN 30

    Advocacy Skills for Teachers: How to Make Change (Even When You Feel Stuck)

    In this episode of Teaching Autism & Special Education with Nikki, we’re talking about advocacy — the kind you need when you know what a student needs, but the system just isn’t moving. You know the feeling.... You’ve got the data.. You’ve got the experience... You can see the pattern clear as day… and yet you’re stuck in meetings that go nowhere, hearing “we’ve tried that” or “they just need to cope.” This episode is for that moment. Because advocacy doesn’t have to mean arguing, burning bridges, or leaving the meeting feeling shaky and drained. It can be calm, professional, strategic — and actually effective. In this episode, we chat about: What advocacy really is (spoiler: it’s not fighting) Why you are the expert on your students.. even if it doesn’t always feel that way How to use data in a way that actually gets listened to A simple way to phrase concerns in meetings without sounding emotional or “difficult” What to say when you hit resistance (without losing your cool) Why writing things down matters more than you think How to build allies so you’re not advocating alone When it’s okay to escalate, and how to do it properly Why advocating for yourself matters just as much as advocating for students Big takeaways: Advocacy isn’t personal.. it’s professional Calm beats loud every single time Data tells a story when you give it context You don’t have to be confident to be effective, just prepared Small wins still count (and they add up) If you’ve ever walked out of a meeting thinking “I should’ve said that differently” or “why is this so hard?” .. this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen in and let’s talk about how to advocate in a way that protects your students and your energy.

    11 min

  5. JAN 23

    When Your Student Regresses - How to Respond Without Panic

    Hey teacher friend... few things sting like seeing a student suddenly “lose” a skill they worked so hard for. One day they’re thriving, and the next, it’s like they’ve forgotten everything. Before you panic or question your teaching, take a breath - regression isn’t failure. It’s feedback. 💛 In this episode, we’re unpacking why regression happens, what it’s really telling you, and how to respond calmly, strategically, and compassionately - so your students (and you) can bounce back faster. What You’ll Learn Why regression is a normal part of learning, not a setback How to identify what’s really causing it (environmental, emotional, or developmental) How to adjust supports instead of restarting from scratch Ways to rebuild confidence, trust, and connection Language shifts that keep communication hopeful and professional Quick Tips Reframe it: “The skill needs a refresh,” not “We’re back to square one.” Identify the why: Look for changes in environment, emotion, or expectation. Adjust - don’t restart: Bring back visuals, routines, and scaffolds temporarily. Rebuild through connection: Safety before skill. Protect dignity: Support quietly and positively. Give yourself grace: Regression doesn’t mean you failed - it means you noticed. Regression isn’t a setback, it’s a signal. Your students aren’t losing progress; they’re reorganizing, recalibrating, and preparing for their next step forward.

    11 min

  6. JAN 16

    The Least Dangerous Assumption & The Presumption of Competence

    Hey teacher friend, today we’re diving into one of my favorite topics: The Least Dangerous Assumption, also known as The Presumption of Competence. 💛 It’s a mindset that completely changes how we see and support our students, especially in special education. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance high expectations with realistic support, or how to make sure every child gets a fair chance to show what they know, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn What The Least Dangerous Assumption means, and where it came from Why assuming competence matters so deeply in SPED classrooms The harm of underestimating students (and how it limits opportunity) Practical ways to live out this mindset every day Real-life examples that prove access + belief = possibility Quick Takeaways Give access first, then assess. Barriers often look like “can’t” when they’re really “can, with support.” Use age-respectful materials. Adapt the task, not the dignity. Provide real choices. Choice = voice = confidence. Watch your language. Replace “can’t” with “not yet” or “still learning.” Look for hidden understanding. Sometimes comprehension shows in the smallest cues. Expect growth, even slow growth. Small wins are still wins. When we presume competence, we teach from belief, not limitation. The “least dangerous assumption” means giving every student access, dignity, and the chance to show what they know, because the risk of assuming too little is far greater than assuming too much.

    12 min

  7. JAN 9

    How to Interpret Behavior Data - What It Really Tells You

    Hey teacher friend - you’ve been tracking, tallying, and color-coding behavior data… but now you’re wondering, “Okay, what do I actually do with it?” In this episode, we’re breaking down how to interpret behavior data.. what it really means, what it doesn’t, and how to use it to create real change for your students. Because data isn’t about numbers.. it’s about stories. What You’ll Learn Why behavior data is meant to inform, not judge The different types of data (frequency, duration, latency, ABC) - and what each reveals How to look for trends and context, not just totals Common data traps that can mislead you How to identify a behavior’s function so you can support, not punish Turning graphs and charts into practical classroom insight Quick Takeaways Data + context = clarity. Numbers alone never tell the full story. Look for patterns over time, not one-off incidents. Pair quantitative data with notes and reflection. Your instincts matter too. Focus on function: What purpose is the behavior serving? Celebrate micro-progress. Shorter duration, quicker recovery.. it all counts. Tell the story: When sharing data, lead with empathy, not statistics. Behavior data isn’t proof of a problem... it’s a language.

    12 min

  8. JAN 2

    De-escalation Techniques You Can Use Right Now

    Hey teacher friend, we’ve all been there. The tone shifts, a student’s body tenses, and you can feel the energy in the room change. What you do in that moment can completely shape what happens next. In this episode, we’re talking about real de-escalation techniques you can use right now, what to say, what not to say, how to use your body language, and how to calm things before they spiral. These are practical, realistic strategies you can start using today to keep your classroom, and yourself, steady when emotions rise. What You’ll Learn Why escalation is communication, not manipulation How to spot early warning signs before a meltdown Simple language swaps that instantly lower tension The power of body language, silence, and co-regulation How to debrief after an incident and protect your own energy Quick Tips Notice early. Pacing, clenched fists, or refusals are clues, not defiance. Stay calm first. Breathe, drop your shoulders, lower your voice. Say less. Try: “You’re safe.” “I’m here to help.” “Let’s take a break.” Avoid ultimatums. Offer choices like “Sit or stand?” “Here or calm corner?” Co-regulate. Model slow breathing, stay nearby, and wait quietly. Debrief later. Once calm, reflect on what worked... for both of you. You’re not giving in when you de-escalate, you’re giving safety. Your calm presence is the most powerful tool you have. Connection first, correction later.

    11 min
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4.5
out of 5
42 Ratings

About

Hi, I’m Nikki —a passionate special educator, autism specialist, and founder of Teaching Autism. With over a decade of experience creating hands-on, engaging resources for educators worldwide, I’m here to make your teaching journey easier, more effective, and a lot more fun! With each episode, I’ll bring you practical tips, creative strategies, and inspiring insights to help you thrive in your autism and special education classroom. From tackling behavior challenges to creating meaningful lesson plans, we’ll dive deep into what works—and what doesn’t—in the world of special education. You’ll find: ✅ Real-world strategies you can use tomorrow. ✅ Expert advice for creating inclusive, student-centered classrooms. ✅ Honest conversations about the joys and challenges of teaching. ✅ Plenty of laughs, relatable moments, and inspiration to keep you going. Whether you’re a seasoned educator, new to special education, or simply looking to level up your teaching game, this podcast is your go-to resource for empowering yourself and your students. Join me on this journey, and let’s build better classrooms together! Hit “subscribe” and tune in to each episode to fill your teaching toolbox with fresh ideas, tools, and motivation. Let’s make teaching less stressful and a whole lot more impactful!

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