The Autism Little Learners Podcast

Tara Phillips
The Autism Little Learners Podcast

How can I help my autistic student or child? Where can I find resources to teach my preschool-age students with autism? My child was given the autism diagnosis…now what? I just started teaching autistic preschool students…where do I start? Do you have any tips for potty training? How do I train my paras? Whether you are a special educator, speech/language pathologist, general education teacher, paraprofessional, parent, grandparent, or someone who loves a young autistic child, this show is for you! The Autism Little Learners podcast is relaxed, upbeat, informative, and full of actionable step-by-step tips to help you feel more confident and successful with your students or child. Host, Tara Phillips, is a speech/language pathologist who can relate to both SLPs and special education teachers because she has run her own communication-based classroom for over 2 decades. She is the creator of the Autism Little Learners Membership and the Visual Schedules Made Easy online course. Tara addresses all kinds of topics including: autism and visuals, tips for teaching communication skills, self-regulation as a foundation for learning, creating predictable routines, toilet training, challenging behaviors, fostering independence, and building positive relationships and connections with autistic children. Along with sharing her tips and most successful strategies for students on the autism spectrum, she will invite guest speakers to get different perspectives. Be sure to tune in and subscribe to The Autism Little Learners Podcast. You can also find Tara on: FB- https://www.facebook.com/autismlittlelearners/ IG-http://www.instagram.com/autismlittlelearners Website- www.autismlittlelearners.com

  1. 20 HR. AGO

    #109 - Why Are Transitions So Hard For Autistic Kids?

    Transitions are a natural part of any day—whether it’s moving from playtime to circle time, transitioning to lunch, or ending a fun activity to go home. While many children find transitions challenging, they can be particularly difficult for autistic kids. What may seem like a simple shift to others can feel overwhelming, disorienting, and even distressing for autistic kids. Today I’m going to talk about why transitions are hard for autistic children and provide actionable strategies to support them. By understanding the underlying challenges and implementing thoughtful solutions, we can make transitions smoother and less stressful for everyone involved. Takeaways Autistic children thrive on routine and consistency. Transitions can create anxiety due to unpredictability. Sensory changes during transitions can be overwhelming. Executive functioning challenges make shifting attention difficult. Emotional attachments to activities can lead to distress during transitions. Monotropism allows for deep learning and creativity. Visual schedules can help children anticipate transitions. Empathy and validation are crucial during difficult transitions. Video modeling is an effective tool for teaching transitions. Building predictable routines can ease transition anxiety. Links Video Modeling Guide:  www.autismlittlelearners.com/video Blog post about video modeling: https://autismlittlelearners.com/autism-video-modeling/ Related podcast episode #15:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autism-little-learners-podcast/id1665404820?i=1000610719012 More information on Monotropism: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/monotropism-and-neurodiversity/id1729259545?i=1000659200713 You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set  Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook

    21 min

  2. FEB 4

    #108 - Autistic Play Is Authentic Play With Cari Ebert, SLP

    In this episode of the Autism Little Learners podcast, Tara interviews Cari Ebert, a speech-language pathologist and advocate for neurodiversity-affirming approaches. They discuss the importance of recognizing autistic play as authentic play, the significance of deep interests in children's learning, and the need for meaningful connections between children and adults. Cari emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments that honor children's unique ways of learning and playing, and the necessity of presuming competence in autistic children. The conversation highlights practical strategies for educators and parents to foster engagement and connection with autistic children, ultimately celebrating their joy and individuality. Takeaways: Autistic children have different ways of learning and playing. Play is a spontaneous activity and should be honored as such. Deep interests can be leveraged to create meaningful connections. Creating a supportive environment is crucial for learning. Presuming competence in autistic children is essential. Connection leads to meaningful communication. Reflecting on practices helps improve outcomes for children. Expanding play schemes can enhance engagement. Individualized approaches are necessary for effective learning. Autistic joy should be celebrated and honored. Links: Cari's free handout "Autistic Play Is Authentic Play": https://cariebert.com/freebie You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set  Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook

    58 min

  3. JAN 28

    #107 - From Grief to Growth: The Story of Autism Little Learners

    Tara shares her journey of founding Autism Little Learners, a platform dedicated to supporting educators and parents of young autistic children. Inspired by personal loss and a professional gap in resources, she creates engaging materials and training to empower those working with autistic children. The conversation highlights the impact of the pandemic on education, the importance of community and collaboration, and the personal motivations that drive her mission. Takeaways: Autism Little Learners was founded in response to personal loss. There was a significant gap in resources for young autistic children. The pandemic highlighted the need for accessible educational materials. Creating free stories during the pandemic helped many families. Training for educators and parents is essential alongside resources. The Autism Little Learners membership provides community support. Courses developed include Potty Train with Compassion and Visual Schedules Made Easy. Collaboration with other professionals enhances the community's impact. Family support has been crucial in Tara's journey. The mission is to create compassionate classrooms for autistic children. Links: Autism Little Learners Membership: www.autismlittlelearners.com/member Potty Train With Compassion Course: https://autismlittlelearners.lpages.co/potty-train-with-compassion/ Visual Schedules Made Easy Course: https://autismlittlelearners.lpages.co/visual-schedules-made-easy-course/ Teachers Pay Teachers Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/autism-little-learners Get on the Preschool Autism Summit Waitlist: https://autismlittlelearners.myflodesk.com/spxk8iqd9s You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set  Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook

    13 min

  4. JAN 21

    #106 - Why Predictable Routines Are So Important For Autistic Preschoolers

    This episode focuses on the significance of predictable routines for autistic preschoolers, emphasizing how they can reduce anxiety, build independence, and strengthen connections. Tara shares practical strategies for implementing these routines in the classroom, including the use of visual schedules and transition objects. The discussion also covers the importance of flexibility within routines, real-life examples of predictable routines, and tips for overcoming common challenges faced by educators and caregivers. Takeaways Predictable routines help reduce anxiety for autistic children Routines provide a sense of control and empowerment Visual schedules can significantly improve task compliance Transitions are often the most challenging parts of the day Using songs and cues can help signal transitions effectively Building routines into transitions can ease the process Morning and end-of-day routines are crucial for stability Flexibility within routines is important for adapting to changes Involving children in creating routines fosters engagement Routines can transform the classroom environment and children's lives Links Visual Supports Starter Set (with the all-done bucket): www.autismlittlelearners.com/visuals You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set  Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook Submit a question for the Q&A episodes.  Ask me anything and tune in to see if your question is featured on the show!

    19 min

  5. JAN 14

    #105 - The Power of Connection: Building Positive Relationships with Autistic Preschoolers

    Fostering positive relationships with autistic preschoolers is incredibly important. In this episode, I talk about emotional safety, understanding sensory needs, and the role of co-regulation in supporting self-regulation. The discussion highlights the need to step out of traditional teacher roles, validate autistic play, and harness deep interests to create meaningful connections. Core values such as compassion over compliance and honoring neurodiversity are explored, along with strategies for creating joyful, neuroaffirming classrooms. The conversation concludes with a focus on the long-term impact of connection and the importance of empowering educators and caregivers. Takeaways: Positive relationships create emotional safety for children. Understanding sensory needs is crucial for connection. Co-regulation supports self-regulation in children. Stepping out of teacher mode fosters authentic connections. Autistic play is valid and meaningful, reflecting unique interactions. Deep interests can be a doorway to connection. Compassion over compliance is essential in education. Creating joyful, neuroaffirming classrooms enhances learning. Presuming competence in communication builds trust. Connection lays the foundation for long-term success. Links: Episode 90: Autism & Play Culture with Dr. Pamela Wolfberg https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autism-little-learners-podcast/id1665404820?i=1000671411034 Blog: Strength-Based Approach For Teaching Autistic Children: https://autismlittlelearners.com/strength-based-approach/ You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set  Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook

    18 min

  6. JAN 7

    #104 - Supporting Regulation In The Classroom

    Today’s episode focuses on strategies for supporting emotional and sensory regulation in young autistic preschoolers. It emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive classroom environment, utilizing sensory tools, and the role of co-regulation with adults. The discussion also highlights the need for tailored interventions and integrating regulation strategies throughout the day, as well as specific approaches for sensory seekers and avoiders. Finally, it addresses the long-term benefits of developing regulation skills in children. Takeaways: The classroom environment plays a critical role in supporting regulation. Minimizing sensory overload is essential for autistic kids. Calming corners can help children manage sensory input and emotions. Visual supports enhance communication and reduce behavioral challenges. Sensory tools can help children achieve an optimal level of arousal. Co-regulation involves adults modeling calmness to help children. Understanding each child's unique sensory needs is crucial. Integrating regulation strategies throughout the day is important. Heavy work activities can help sensory seekers feel centered. Helping autistic preschoolers develop regulation skills leads to lifelong benefits. Links: Calming Kit Visuals Addressing Sensory Needs for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Classroom - Sage Journals Article Mindfulness & Regulation With Sarah Habib Rethinking Hand Over Hand Prompting With Dr. Diamond Rashad You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set  Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook

    21 min

  7. 12/31/2024

    #103 -  Setting Intentions For 2025!

    In this episode of the Autism Little Learners podcast, Tara Phillips discusses the importance of setting meaningful intentions for the new year rather than rigid resolutions. She emphasizes the significance of connection, flexibility, and growth as key areas to focus on in 2025. The episode includes a reflective activity to help listeners identify their guiding word, a small action, and an achievable goal for the year ahead, encouraging a gentle and process-oriented approach to personal and professional development. Free Setting Intentions PDF: www.autismlittlelearners.com/intention Takeaways: Setting intentions is about aligning actions with values. Intentions are more flexible than rigid resolutions. Connection is foundational in education and caregiving. Flexibility is essential in adapting to challenges. Growth can be simple and incremental. Reflecting on your 'why' can guide your intentions. Small, consistent actions can lead to meaningful change. Trusting your instincts is crucial in goal setting. Engaging with the community enhances support and motivation. Starting today with small steps can lead to significant progress. You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set  Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook

    9 min

  8. 12/24/2024

    #102 - Gratitude, Small Wins & Impact

    In this special Christmas Eve episode of the Autism Little Learners podcast, host Tara Phillips emphasizes the importance of celebrating small wins in our lives, particularly in the context of working with young autistic children. She reflects on how these small moments of progress can lead to significant changes and shares inspiring stories from the Autism Little Learners community. Tara encourages listeners to take time to reflect on their own wins and offers practical tips for maintaining a positive mindset as they head into the new year. Free Gratitude PDF: www.autismlittlelearners.com/gratitude Takeaways: The power of celebrating small wins is often overlooked. Small acts of care and compassion can lead to big impacts. Reflecting on positive moments can significantly increase happiness. It's important to appreciate what has worked, not just what needs improvement. Sharing success stories reinforces the importance of small victories. Every choice made in the classroom contributes to making a difference. Taking time to reflect can shift your mindset positively. Progress can be a series of small steps, not just big leaps. Creating a record of growth helps in remembering positive moments. Community support is vital in celebrating and sharing wins. You may also be interested in these supports: Visual Support Starter Set  Visual Supports Facebook Group Autism Little Learners on Instagram Autism Little Learners on Facebook

    9 min
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About

How can I help my autistic student or child? Where can I find resources to teach my preschool-age students with autism? My child was given the autism diagnosis…now what? I just started teaching autistic preschool students…where do I start? Do you have any tips for potty training? How do I train my paras? Whether you are a special educator, speech/language pathologist, general education teacher, paraprofessional, parent, grandparent, or someone who loves a young autistic child, this show is for you! The Autism Little Learners podcast is relaxed, upbeat, informative, and full of actionable step-by-step tips to help you feel more confident and successful with your students or child. Host, Tara Phillips, is a speech/language pathologist who can relate to both SLPs and special education teachers because she has run her own communication-based classroom for over 2 decades. She is the creator of the Autism Little Learners Membership and the Visual Schedules Made Easy online course. Tara addresses all kinds of topics including: autism and visuals, tips for teaching communication skills, self-regulation as a foundation for learning, creating predictable routines, toilet training, challenging behaviors, fostering independence, and building positive relationships and connections with autistic children. Along with sharing her tips and most successful strategies for students on the autism spectrum, she will invite guest speakers to get different perspectives. Be sure to tune in and subscribe to The Autism Little Learners Podcast. You can also find Tara on: FB- https://www.facebook.com/autismlittlelearners/ IG-http://www.instagram.com/autismlittlelearners Website- www.autismlittlelearners.com

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