As we recognize Autism Acceptance Month, it's essential to explore the journey of understanding and supporting autistic individuals. Today, I’m reflecting on 25 years of working with autistic children and how things have changed over those years.  I’ll be chatting about some of the shifts that I’ve made with my vocabulary, thoughts and teaching approaches. By looking back at these areas I hope to help promote a better understanding of autism and encourage acceptance and support for autistic children and adults.

Topics Discussed:

• Evolution from Awareness to Acceptance: Symbolism of Puzzle Piece and Infinity Symbol
• Terminology: Person-First Language vs. Identity-First Language
• AAC Evolution: From PECS to Core + Fringe Communication and Robust AAC Devices
• Shifting Approaches in Autism Intervention: Compliance-Based vs. Connection-Based
• The Double Empathy Problem: Understanding the Reciprocal Nature of Empathy

Links:

Mrs. Speechie IEP (Andi Putt, SLP)

Cari Ebert, SLP - The SLP Talkshow Podcast (Episode 52)

The Different Ways We Communicate Children’s Book by Tara Phillips

Identity First vs Person First Language Blog Post

Episode 12 - The Autism Little Learners Podcast - Autism Awareness Month vs Autism Acceptance Month

Rachel Madel - SLP specializing in AAC

Other Links You May Be Interested In:

• Autism Little Learners on Instagram

• Autism Little Learners on Facebook

You can also join my free Visual Supports Facebook Group to “hang out” with like-minded educators and parents who want to take action and implement visuals at home or at school.

Be sure to subscribe to The Autism Little Learners Podcast so you don’t miss future episodes.  Plus, leave a rating & review on iTunes….this will help other educators and parents find this podcast!  

CLICK HERE to leave a review on iTunes, then scroll down to “ratings and reviews” and click “write a review”.  THANK YOU!