The Autism Helper Podcast

Inclusion is one of the most important values in special education - and one of the most misunderstood placement decisions. In this episode, we're unpacking the difference between inclusion as a philosophy and inclusion as a checkbox. We look at what IDEA actually says about least restrictive environment, what meaningful participation really looks like, and how to have honest LRE conversations at the IEP table without shame or judgment.

IDEA (2004). Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. U.S. Department of Education.

Kauffman et al. (2020). The scandalous neglect of children's mental health. Exceptionality.

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Token boards are everywhere in autism classrooms - but how many of them are actually working? In this episode, we're getting into what makes a token economy effective vs. what makes it just another laminated thing on the wall. We cover the three things that need to be in place before a token system will work, the most common mistakes teachers make, and how to build systems that are actually matched to the individual student.

Cooper, Heron & Heward (2020). Applied behavior analysis (3rd ed.). Pearson.

Hackenberg, T.D. (2009). Token reinforcement: A review and analysis. Journal of...

Prompting is one of the most powerful tools we have - and one of the easiest to misuse. In this episode, we're talking about prompt dependency: what it is, how well-meaning teachers accidentally create it, and what to do instead. If you've ever had a student who shuts down the second you step back, this one is for you. We break down prompting hierarchies and what the research says about building real independence.

Engelmann & Carnine (1982). Theory of instruction. ADI Press.

Browder et al. (2009). Aligning instruction with academic content standards. Research and Practice for Persons with...

We spend hours building visual systems for our students and almost no time building them for ourselves. In this episode, we're talking about the irony of being the most scheduled, structured classroom in the building - and having zero systems for how we actually run our own day. From cognitive load to para fidelity, there's real research behind why teacher organization isn't just a nice-to-have. It directly impacts how your classroom runs.

Simonsen et al. (2008). Evidence-based practices in classroom management. Education and Treatment of Children.

Sweller, J. (1988). Cognitive load during problem solving. Cognitive Science.

DTT is one of the most well-researched strategies in our toolkit - and we might be leaning on it too hard. In this episode, we're making the case that over-relying on discrete trial teaching can actually work against our students when it comes to using skills in the real world. We dig into what the research says about naturalistic instruction, when DTT is absolutely the right call, and how to audit your own practice to make sure you're using the right tool for the job.

Stokes & Baer (1977). An implicit technology of generalization. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis.<...

In this episode, I’m joined by Quintara Tucker, BCBA to discuss the importance of cultural responsiveness in autism and special education. We explore how culture shapes perspectives on diagnosis and intervention, common ways professionals may unintentionally miss the mark, and how bias can show up in assessments, communication, and expectations. Quintara also shares practical strategies for building trust with families from diverse backgrounds and becoming more culturally responsive in everyday practice.

Quintara Tucker is a BCBA, consultant, speaker, and CEO of QB Consulting, LLC, specializing in autism and staff training, with a strong focus on culturally re...

In this episode, I’m joined by bilingual speech-language pathologist Michelle Diaz to discuss supporting autistic children in bilingual environments. We break down what the research really says about bilingualism and autism, how to address common parent concerns about language use, and what culturally responsive care looks like in practice. Michelle also shares practical strategies for supporting bilingual learners who use AAC, embedding communication into preschool routines, and what teams can do to better support these students. This episode is full of actionable insights for educators, therapists, and families alike.

About Michelle Diaz: Michelle Diaz is a bi...

In this episode, Laura Hayes, SLP, and I discuss the evolving understanding of AAC and what it really means to support AAC users in meaningful, communication-centered ways. We talk about common myths surrounding AAC, the role of stimming in communication, and how educators and therapists can create environments where AAC users feel safe to regulate, stim, and communicate authentically. Laura shares practical insights on recognizing communication attempts, honoring neurodivergent communication styles, and building truly supportive communication environments.

Laura Hayes is a speech-language pathologist with over 17 years of experience supporting augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) users in school...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re joined by Andrew Devitt, owner of Sport Social, to explore how sports, movement, and the arts can be powerful teaching tools. Andrew shares what these approaches offer learners beyond traditional table-based instruction, how movement and creativity support social communication and regulation, and what intentional teaching looks like in play-based settings. We also dig into generalization - why skills taught through sports and arts are more likely to transfer to real life - and wrap up with practical ways teachers can apply these principles in any classroom, even without specialized eq...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we take a closer look at one of the most commonly used behavior strategies in classrooms and therapy spaces: redirection. While redirection is often well-intentioned and easy to default to, it can become a problem when it’s used as the primary response to challenging behavior without addressing the why behind it.

We unpack what redirection actually does (and doesn’t do), how it can unintentionally reinforce behavior or create dependence on adults, and why managing behavior in the moment isn’t the same as teaching long-term skills. You’ll walk...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re joined by Melissa Ziegler, a kindergarten self-contained autism teacher, to talk about what individual instruction really looks like in practice. Melissa shares which skills most often require 1:1 teaching, how she fits individual instruction into a busy school day, and the systems and routines that help protect that time without everything else falling apart. She also discusses how to keep students engaged, choose meaningful instructional targets, and balance planning with responsiveness. This episode offers realistic encouragement - and actionable ideas - for teachers who want individual instruction to feel doable an...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we talk with Dr. Destiny Huff about what it really means to create neuroaffirming IEPs. We explore the gap between compliance and true support, how IEP practices can impact student mental health, and the red flags educators should watch for in IEP language. Dr. Huff shares how goals and present levels can better honor student identity and autonomy, along with practical ways to make IEP meetings feel safer and more collaborative for families.

Dr. Destiny Huff is a late-diagnosed Black Autistic ADHD mental health therapist, non-attorney special education advocate...

In this episode, I’m joined by Mandy Grass to discuss parent training and why making behavior science accessible is not optional - it’s essential. We dig into what “parent training” really means, common misconceptions about ABA, and the barriers that often prevent families from getting buy-in. Mandy shares how professionals can translate complex concepts into language that feels usable (not overwhelming) and how to collaborate with parents in ways that are socially significant to them. Mandy Grass is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and a mother with over a decade of experience in education, and she regularl...

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...

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.

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Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://the...

“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/

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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 w...

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 class...

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.

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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 Develop...

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 unders...

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

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In this episode, we talk with ADHD parent coach Allison Solomon about shifting from reacting to children’s behavior to getting curious about what’s underneath it. Allison shares how “getting curious, not furious” helps parents see behavior as communication rather than disobedience, and how asking “What is my child struggling with?” can change everything. We explore why certain behaviors trigger parents, how those triggers can point to our own stress and expectations, and what becomes possible when we pause instead of react.

We also discuss the unrealistic pressure on parents to stay calm at all times and why givi...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, I’m joined by Kaelynn Partlow - autistic advocate, national speaker, and familiar face from the Netflix series Love on the Spectrum. Diagnosed with autism at age 10, Kaelynn has dedicated her career to meaningful inclusion through her work as an RBT with Project Hope and as the author of Life on the Bridge. Together, we unpack the critical difference between a skill deficit and a capacity limit, exploring why this distinction matters for educators, families, and autistic individuals themselves. Kaelynn shares common misconceptions, how misunderstandings can impact independence and employment, and pr...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, Sasha chats with Dr. Erin Michaud, a Speech-Language Pathologist and BCBA-D with over 20 years of experience supporting infants at high likelihood for autism. Dr. Michaud shares what she’s learning from the Early Markers of Autism Project, including the earliest behavioral indicators to look for and how to distinguish meaningful early signs from typical infant variability.

She also discusses how she supports families through her private practice, using NDBI (Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention) strategies to help parents build social and communication skills through everyday routines. We talk about practical, pa...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re turning up the heat! 🔥 I’m diving into four spicy social media comments and unpacking the tough conversations behind them. From the debate over the value of errorless learning, to the real-world challenges of handling aggression in the classroom, and the art of de-escalation strategies- nothing’s off-limits.

Join me as I respond candidly, clear up misconceptions, and share practical, compassionate approaches that actually work in the classroom. Whether you’re a teacher, therapist, or parent, this episode will leave you with strategies you can use and food for th...

In this episode, we take a closer look at two widely used assessment tools in both clinical and educational settings: the VB-MAPP (Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program) and the ABLLS-R (Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills – Revised). Aimed at clinicians, special educators, and support staff, this discussion breaks down the core differences between the two tools - covering structure, developmental focus, skill domains, and practical use in programming. We explore which learners each tool best supports, how to use the data to inform IEPs and behavior plans, and why some teams choose to use both for a...

In this episode, we're tackling a tough but important topic: the common strategies that just don't work when it comes to reducing problem behavior in the classroom or clinical setting. From relying on punishment alone to enforcing one-size-fits-all policies, we break down five approaches that may seem effective in the moment but often backfire in the long run. Whether you're a teacher, behavior specialist, or therapist, this episode will help you reflect on what might be getting in the way of real progress - and what to do instead. Tune in to learn why addressing root causes, teaching missing...

What do you do when you and your school or district administrators aren't on the same page - especially when it comes to student behavior, curriculum, or the resources you need to do your job well? In this episode, we talk about how to navigate those tricky disconnects with professionalism, empathy, and clarity. Whether you're a teacher, BCBA, or related service provider, we’ll explore practical strategies for advocating effectively, maintaining positive relationships, and staying focused on what matters most: student success. If you've ever felt unheard, unsupported, or stuck in the middle, this episode is for you.

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When students are destroying essential classroom materials like schedules and task boxes, it can feel overwhelming and even chaotic. In this episode, we unpack what’s really going on behind destructive behavior and, more importantly, what you can do about it. We’ll cover immediate response strategies, how to keep everyone safe, and long-term solutions that focus on teaching replacement skills and identifying the function of the behavior. Whether you're in a classroom or a clinical setting, this episode offers practical, calm, and compassionate guidance for when things are literally falling apart.

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In this episode, we welcome Dr. Emily Levy, founder of EBL Coaching, to dive into the topic of reading comprehension—a challenge faced by many students, especially those with autism. Dr. Levy discusses why reading comprehension is such a common struggle, how it impacts overall academic performance, and the role of missing prerequisite skills in this deficit. She also shares actionable strategies and multi-sensory techniques to help improve reading comprehension, offering practical tips for both parents and educators. Whether you’re a teacher looking to better support your students or a parent hoping to help your child build stronger read...

In this episode, we chat with Tara Phillips, founder of Autism Little Learners, about the ins and outs of potty training for children with autism. Tara shares her expertise on recognizing signs that a child may be ready to start potty training and the key prerequisites or readiness skills to look for. She explains why potty training can be more challenging or take longer for children with autism, and offers valuable tips on how to prepare—what supplies are needed and how to set up for success. Tara also provides advice for teachers and clinicians who are supporting parents he...

Work refusal is one of the most common challenges educators face, but not all refusals are the same. In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we explore how to respond effectively by using the “Can’t Do or Won’t Do” framework. Understanding whether a student is avoiding work because they can’t complete the task or because they won’t is the key to choosing the right strategy. We’ll break down practical ways to assess the root cause, adjust your approach, and support students in building independence and confidence.

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De-escalation is a skill that requires preparedness, and unfortunately, there are some common mistakes that can make situations harder instead of easier. In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re digging into three of the biggest missteps school staff can make during moments of escalation: getting too close to students, not having a clear crisis plan, and lacking training. We’ll talk about why these issues matter, how they impact student and staff safety, and what steps you can take to set your team up for success.

For even more information, learn about our De-Escalation 101 Cour...

The beginning of the school year sets the tone for everything that follows. In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re diving into the key priorities every educator should focus on at the start of the year. Rather than rushing into academics, it’s essential to first build strong rapport with students, staff, and parents; establish consistent routines that create predictability; and ensure safety as the foundation for all learning. These early investments not only create a positive classroom environment but also lay the groundwork for growth and success throughout the year.

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In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, we’re discussing three signs that your schedule might not be working and how to make adjustments. First, we’ll talk about how group size feeling unmanageable can signal that your schedule needs tweaking for better flow. Then, we’ll explore how not having enough time in each center can prevent students from completing tasks or feeling successful. Lastly, we’ll look at how too frequent transitions can be overwhelming and trigger behavior issues. Identifying these signs early helps you make necessary changes to create a more balanced and effectiv...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, we’re sharing four essential steps for teaching class centers that will set your students up for success. First, we’ll discuss the importance of transitioning early to give students time to adjust. Then, we’ll talk about transitioning one group at a time to avoid overwhelm and ensure smooth rotations. Next, we’ll focus on fading prompts and building independence, so students can grow in their ability to work independently. Finally, we’ll emphasize keeping tasks at centers easy and fun, so students stay engaged and motivated. These strategies...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, we’re focusing on two key things to prioritize during the first month of school. First, we’ll dive into the importance of focusing on rapport, building strong, trusting relationships with your students from day one. Then, we’ll talk about how to build in reinforcement—using positive reinforcement to encourage desired behaviors and set the tone for a successful school year. These foundational steps will help you create a positive and supportive classroom environment right from the start!

Link to podcast episode 83: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podca...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, we’re diving into three key questions to ask when creating a class mission statement. First, we’ll explore What do we want for our students?, a crucial question to ensure the focus is always on their growth and success. Next, we’ll talk about What do we want for our team?, because a strong, supportive team is essential for student achievement. Lastly, we’ll discuss What do we want for our school community?, to ensure that your class’s mission aligns with and contributes to the larger school culture. T...

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, we’re exploring two creative ways to sneak in staff training time, even when schedules are tight. First, we’ll talk about using opportunities during the school day, by strategic grouping or end-of-the-week afternoons. Then, we’ll discuss how to leverage outside of the school day moments, such as professional development days, to continue professional development. These strategies help ensure your team stays up-to-date and equipped to support students, without adding extra stress to your already busy day!

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In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, we’re diving into three underutilized types of schedules that can make a big difference in your classroom. First, we’ll talk about Class Party Schedules, which help set clear expectations and reduce anxiety during special events. Next, we’ll discuss Field Trip Schedules, a great tool to prepare students for changes in routine while keeping the excitement manageable. Lastly, we’ll explore Mini Schedules for Transitions, which can help students navigate the small, but often tricky, shifts throughout the day. These schedules may not always get the attention they des...