In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the challenges faced by parents and professionals in supporting autistic children, particularly when traditional therapy methods fail to yield meaningful progress. She shares personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique communication needs of autistic individuals. The discussion highlights the limitations of compliance-driven therapy models and advocates for a shift towards child-led and neuroaffirming approaches that prioritize connection and engagement. Nicole also identifies common mistakes in therapy delivery and offers practical strategies for creating a supportive environment that fosters meaningful communication and progress. takeaways

• It's common to feel like your efforts aren't working.
• Social media can create unrealistic expectations for therapists.
• Traditional therapy strategies often don't support meaningful communication.
• Child-led and play-based approaches can be more effective.
• Therapy should focus on the child's interests and needs.
• Setting meaningful goals is crucial for progress.
• Dysregulation can hinder learning and communication.
• Multimodal communication should be recognized and honored.
• Creating a safe and low-pressure environment is essential.
• Small shifts in approach can lead to significant improvements.

To learn more, visit www.childled.org