In this episode of Let Them Lead, Nicole Casey discusses the concept of "yes spaces" in therapy and educational settings, emphasizing their importance for both autistic students and educators. She explains how creating environments where children can explore safely without constant redirection fosters authentic communication and co-regulation. Nicole shares practical tips for setting up yes spaces, highlighting the balance between freedom and safety, and the benefits for both students and educators.

Takeaways:

• Creating yes spaces allows children to explore safely.
• Yes spaces reduce the need for constant redirection.
• They foster authentic communication and co-regulation.
• Yes spaces benefit both students and educators.
• Balance between freedom and safety is crucial.
• Yes spaces are not about chaos but thoughtful design.
• Boundaries are built into the environment, not enforced.
• Yes spaces make therapy feel lighter and freer.
• They help educators focus on connection, not crisis management.
• Yes spaces support nervous system regulation for all.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction to Yes Spaces 00:03:00 Benefits of Yes Spaces 00:06:00 Creating a Yes Space 00:09:00 Balancing Freedom and Safety 00:12:00 Practical Tips for Yes Spaces 00:15:00 Conclusion and Reflections

yes spaces, child-led therapy, autism, co-regulation, educational environments