Hey friend! In this episode, I’m spilling all the details on one of my favourite ways to wrap up the school year: theme days!

If you’ve been around here a while, you already know I live for a good theme - especially at the end of the year when routines go a little wonky, energy is through the roof, and we’re all counting down the days to summer.

I’ve been doing theme days for years now, and I’ve finally nailed down a system that makes them feel magical, manageable, and totally reusable. In this episode, I’m sharing five of my go-to end-of-year themes, how I set them up, what activities I use, how I decorate (without going broke), and why I keep coming back to them every single year.

1. Circus Theme Day
Red and white stripes, silly hats, and sensory-friendly carnival games make this one a total hit. I share my favourite activities like ring toss, cutting clown hair (hello, fine motor!), and fake popcorn snacks — plus how I keep the vibe magical but calm.

2. Pizza Theme Day
This one is always a class favourite! I talk about how I turn my classroom into a mini pizzeria with matching visuals, dramatic play, and play dough pizzas. It’s perfect for sequencing, communication, and even sneaking in a little math.

3. Lemonade Theme Day
A calm, refreshing theme that’s perfect for those warmer days. I go all in with yellow decor, lemon-themed math games, and a tasting station with different flavours. We keep it visual and communication-friendly — and yes, there’s a “lemon squad” group photo.

4. Ice Cream Theme Day
No school year ends without Ice Cream Day! I reuse pastel decorations, pull out my adapted books and matching activities, and we top it all off with a tasting session (or a fruit and cream option). I also share my go-to ice cream themed crafts and counting tasks.

5. Camping Theme Day
This is my go-to for a chill, cozy final week. I talk about how I set up the “campfire,” decorate with fairy lights, and run the whole day by flashlight. You’ll hear about the literacy, math, and sensory activities I use — plus some sweet snack ideas to finish it off.

How I store and reuse everything from year to year in labeled boxes

Where I get low-cost (or free!) decorations and props

My tips for keeping theme days low-prep but high-impact

Why they’re perfect for time fillers, sub days, or when plans change last minute

How these themed days still support structure, visuals, and calm for my students

🎡 End-of-Year Theme Day Bundle on TpT
Get access to all five of the theme days I mentioned, including visuals, printables, and activities that are ready to go.
👉 Grab the bundle here

📁 End-of-Year Google Drive Bundle
Packed with crafts, sensory supports, scavenger hunts, and more — everything digital and printable to finish the year strong.
👉 Grab it here

Theme days don’t have to be Pinterest-perfect to be special.
I’ve found that keeping things visual, structured, and fun is the sweet spot — especially for our special education classrooms. My students love these days, and I love how simple they are to run once they’re prepped.

If you try one of these theme days, tag me @teachingautism so I can cheer you on and see the magic you’re making!

Thanks for tuning in - and don’t forget, it’s not about doing more, it’s about doing what works for you and your students.

Talk soon,
💛 Nikki

🎧 Episode Description:
Hey friend! In today’s episode of the Teaching Autism podcast, I’m spilling all my secrets for how I wrap up the school year without burning out - so I can actually rest, recharge, and not think about laminating until September.

This is a no-guilt, no-grind guide to prepping smart so you can fully switch off over summer. I’m sharing how I shift our classroom routine, get my staff involved in a low-stress prep system, and reuse materials year after year to save time and money.

If you're dreaming of a peaceful summer but still want to feel calm and confident heading into the next school year, you're in the right place!

✨ In This Episode, I Cover:

✅ How I shift our classroom routine during the last few weeks
✅ My easy system for rotating staff through prep stations (no stress, no chaos)
✅ What I start prepping during those final afternoons - from visuals to craft kits
✅ Why I reuse and rotate everything I possibly can
✅ My two-day summer setup sprint - then I’m DONE
✅ How you can do the same with just a little planning and a whole lot less pressure

📦 Grab My Favorite Time-Saving Resources:

🗂️ End of Year Google Drive Folder
Your go-to for theme days, crafts, scavenger hunts, visual supports, sensory play, and more.
👉 Click here to grab it

🎒 Back to School Google Drive Folder
Start the year with visual routines, editable forms, staff handbooks, morning meetings, and first-week crafts - all done for you.
👉 Click here to grab it

☀️ End of Year Theme Days
All of my go-to end of year theme days in one bundle for you!
👉 Click here to grab it

🌈 Setting Up a Color Coded Classroom
👉 Read my blog post here

✂️ Year Long Craft Prep
👉 Read my blog post here

💬 Let’s Connect:
Are you doing your end-of-year prep now? Show me what you’re up to! Tag me on Instagram @teachingautism or drop into my DMs - I love seeing how you're wrapping up the year.

🧡 Final Reminder:
You don’t need to prep everything. Just prep what brings you peace.
Even if that’s cutting out two visuals while bingeing Netflix - it totally counts.

Until next time, you’ve got this. I’m cheering you on every step of the way. 💛

Hey everyone, welcome back to the Teaching Autism podcast! In this heart-filled episode, I’m joined by the incredible Yara from Sea of Knowledge to dive deep into one of the most important topics in any classroom: friendship and anti-bullying.

We talk all about:

What healthy friendships really look like (and how to spot when something’s not quite right)

Practical ways teachers can support students through tricky social situations

How to make social-emotional learning fun, meaningful, and consistent in your daily routines

Recognizing the early signs of bullying and how to create safe, inclusive spaces for every student

Yara is full of real, relatable advice and brings so much value as both a resource creator and educator. If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to manage friendship fallouts or teach empathy in an age-appropriate way—this one’s for you.

💛 Whether you're a special ed teacher, a general classroom teacher, or a parent, you’ll come away with simple, powerful ideas you can start using right away.

💡 Mentioned in This Episode:

🧦 Boots Empathy Craft
Use this fun and visual craft to help kids understand what it means to “walk in someone else’s shoes.”
👉 Check it out here

🍦 What Makes a Good Friend? Ice Cream Craft
Perfect for building social awareness and talking about what real friendship looks like.
👉 Download the free activity

🎨 SEL Crafts Mega Bundle
A HUGE collection of hands-on, themed activities to support emotional regulation, kindness, self-awareness, and more.
👉 Grab the bundle on TpT

👩‍🏫 Connect with Yara:
Website: Sea of Knowledge
Instagram: @seaofknowledge
TpT Store: Sea of Knowledge on TpT

💬 Let’s keep the conversation going!
What’s your go-to strategy for supporting friendships or tackling bullying in your classroom? Come join me over on Instagram @teachingautism and share your thoughts—I love hearing from you!

In today’s episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s been debated for years in the autism and special education world, the language we use when talking about autism. Specifically, we're breaking down the difference between identity-first language ("autistic person") and person-first language ("person with autism") and why so many autistic individuals are asking us to make the shift.

Language is powerful. It shapes how we think, how we connect, and how we respect one another. So let’s talk about how we can be more intentional and inclusive with our words, and why listening to autistic voices is key.

What identity-first and person-first language actually mean

Why many autistic individuals prefer identity-first language

What professionals and advocacy groups are saying

How educators, caregivers, and allies can shift their language respectfully

Practical tips for using inclusive language every day

Autism is not a detachable condition, it’s a core part of identity for many.

Identity-first language is supported by most autistic self-advocates and groups like ASAN.

Using “autistic person” honors the lived experience and self-identified preference of the community.

The most respectful thing we can do? Ask individuals how they want to be referred to and listen.

Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). Strong advocate for identity-first language

My Free Resource Library for inclusive classroom tools.

Follow along and join the conversation on Instagram.

Have you shifted the language you use around autism? Have you had these conversations at school or in your workplace? I’d love to hear your thoughts, come say hi on social media and let’s keep learning together.

If this episode helped you learn something new or challenged you to think differently, consider sharing it with a friend, tagging me on social media, or leaving a quick review, it really helps spread the message of inclusion and neuro-affirming practices.

Until next time.. Keep listening, keep growing, and let’s keep making space for autistic voices to lead the way.

Welcome back to the podcast! Today we’re diving into one of my absolute favorite topics — special interests, and why they deserve to be celebrated, not shut down.

If you’ve ever worked with Autistic students (or if you’re Autistic yourself), you already know: special interests are so much more than hobbies. They’re a source of comfort, confidence, connection, and even learning, not something to “tone down” or redirect.

In this episode, I’ll walk you through:
✨ What special interests really are and why they matter
✨ How educators and caregivers can use them to build connection
✨ Inspiring stories of Autistic individuals whose passions led to amazing careers
✨ Practical strategies to nurture these interests in meaningful ways

The difference between casual interests and special interests, and why it matters

How special interests help regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, and support learning

Why validation, not redirection, is key to helping Autistic students thrive

Easy ways to incorporate special interests into lessons and social connection

How special interests can lead to real-world success (yep, we’re talking about Temple Grandin, Greta Thunberg, and more!)

Special interests are not distractions.. they’re strengths. When we validate and support these passions, we help Autistic individuals feel seen, valued, and empowered.

🎁 Free Resource Library - Grab tools and resources to help you incorporate special interests into learning

📱 Come chat with me on Instagram

🖥️ Read more on the blog

What special interests have you seen in your students or your own life?
How have you used them to connect or support learning?
Come say hi on social media and share your stories — I’d love to hear them!

And if this episode sparked something for you, please consider sharing it with a friend, tagging me, or leaving a quick review. It helps get this message into more ears and hearts.

Thanks for listening — and until next time, let’s keep celebrating what makes each of us uniquely amazing. 💛

In this heartfelt episode, I’m passing the mic (with full permission and lots of gratitude) to a few amazing Autistic friends who shared what they really want people to know during Autism Acceptance Month. 💛

This month is about more than wearing a color or posting a hashtag — it’s about taking real, thoughtful action that centers and supports the Autistic community.

In this 10-minute episode, we explore the shifts that matter most — directly from Autistic voices.

Why red (not blue) is the color of true support

The real meaning behind the infinity symbol (and why puzzle pieces are outdated)

The crucial difference between awareness and acceptance

Why April can actually be triggering for many Autistic people

How to amplify Autistic creators, educators, and voices — respectfully and meaningfully

A clearer understanding of how to show up as an ally (without centering yourself)

Easy, compassionate ways to rethink how we “celebrate” Autism Acceptance Month

Practical ways to put these changes into action, in your classroom, your community, or your daily life

Hashtags: #RedInstead, #AutismAcceptanceMonth

Symbols: 🌈 Rainbow Infinity (neurodiversity), ✨ Gold Infinity (Autism)

Instagram

Website + Blog

To honor the mental load this month can bring, I’ve chosen not to tag or name the friends who contributed to this episode. Their trust means everything, and I’m so grateful to share their thoughts here in a safe, respectful space.

If you’re Autistic and listening, I see you, I appreciate you, and I hope this episode feels supportive. 💛

If something in this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear about it!
✨ Share this episode
✨ Tag me on socials
✨ Leave a quick review or rating, it really helps!

And above all, let’s keep learning, listening, and growing, not just in April, but all year round.

Hey friends, welcome back to the podcast, and welcome to a special episode for Autism Acceptance Month 💛

In this one, we’re busting some of the biggest, most outdated myths about Autism that just won’t go away. From vaccine misinformation to the idea that Autism only affects boys... We’re clearing it all up in a kind, honest, neuro-affirming way.

Here’s the truth: Autism is not a disease. It’s a natural neurotype. And the more we understand that, the better we can support Autistic individuals with empathy, respect, and actual inclusion, not just performative awareness every April.

✨ In this 10-minute myth-busting episode, we cover:

What Autism actually is (and what it’s not)

Why the vaccine myth needs to go (like, yesterday)

The real reason more people are being diagnosed

How gender bias affects Autism diagnosis

Why Autistic people absolutely can feel empathy

And no — Autism is not something that needs to be "cured"

I also throw it back to an amazing conversation I had with Andi Putt (Mrs Speechie P) where we dug deeper into neurodiversity, inclusive practice, and how we can move from April “awareness” to real, everyday acceptance.

This episode is short, clear, and packed with truths we all need to hear. So whether you’re a parent, teacher, therapist, or just someone who wants to be a better ally, this one’s for you.

My Conversation with Andi Putt (Mrs Speechie P)

Learn more at my blog.

Follow along on Instagram.

Welcome to a special episode for Autism Acceptance Month 💛

Awareness is a good start — but this episode is all about what comes next: real acceptance. In this 10-minute chat, I’m sharing five simple but impactful things you can do this month (and beyond!) to support the Autistic and neurodivergent community.

From the symbols we use to the stories we amplify, every small shift makes a big difference. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, therapist, or ally-in-training — this one’s for you.

@teachingautism on Instagram for more neuro-affirming tips and resources

Autistic creators to follow (recommend adding a few you love!)

Neurodivergent-owned shops to support this April

If this episode spoke to you, share it with a friend, post about it on socials, or leave a quick review. Your support helps amplify neuro-affirming voices and keep this podcast growing!

Instagram

“Short, sweet, and so powerful! A must-listen for anyone wanting to do better this April.” – Amanda H. Ohio

In today’s episode, we’re talking all about the shift from Autism Awareness Month to Autism Acceptance Month—and why that change is so important. While awareness is a great starting point, true inclusion happens when we move into acceptance: making space, shifting mindsets, and celebrating neurodiversity in all its forms. I’ll walk you through the difference between awareness and acceptance, why acceptance matters in real life (not just hashtags!), and practical, everyday ways you can be a more neuro-affirming friend, teacher, parent, or ally. Whether you're new to the conversation or deep in the world of neurodivergent support—this episode will leave you thinking, nodding, and hopefully feeling inspired.

Why the language shift from "awareness" to "acceptance" matters

The difference between recognizing autism and truly supporting autistic people

Everyday examples of what autism acceptance looks like

Practical ways to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity

How to celebrate neurodiversity without trying to "fix" autistic people

Follow autistic creators and educators for lived experience insight

Check out neuro-affirming books and blogs (search for #ActuallyAutistic voices!)

Want more ideas? Head to my website for tools and resources

Did this episode speak to you?
Share it with a friend, post about it on socials, or send me a DM—I love hearing how these chats are landing for you.

Tag me on Instagram @TeachingAutism and use the hashtag #AutismAcceptanceEveryDay to join the movement.

Let’s build spaces that celebrate, support, and include everyone—just as they are.

Today’s episode is all about your biggest questions! Whether you're new to special education or have been in the field for years, you've probably wondered about behavior management, classroom setup, IEPs, and more. In this episode, I’m answering seven frequently asked questions from special educators—covering everything from handling meltdowns to supporting nonverbal students.

Grab your coffee, take a deep breath, and let’s dive in!

Behavior is communication! Instead of just stopping the behavior, ask why it’s happening.

✔️ Identify the function of the behavior – Is the student trying to escape, seek attention, or get sensory input?
✔️ Be proactive – Use visual schedules, structured routines, and clear expectations.
✔️ Reinforce positive behaviors – Praise and rewards encourage desired behaviors.
✔️ Teach replacement behaviors – If a student hits when frustrated, teach them to ask for help.
✔️ Stay calm and consistent – Predictability helps students feel safe.

A well-structured classroom creates a predictable, supportive environment for students.

🏫 Defined spaces – Have designated areas for different activities (workstations, sensory breaks, group learning).
📅 Visual schedules – Help students see what’s coming next.
🔄 Predictable routines – Keep things consistent to reduce anxiety.
👐 Hands-on learning – Use adapted books, sensory activities, and manipulatives.
🗂 Accessible materials – Label frequently used items to promote independence.

Make IEP goals SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).

✅ Specific – Clearly state the skill (e.g., “Will use a visual schedule to transition between activities with 80% independence.”).
✅ Measurable – Track progress with data sheets, observations, or work samples.
✅ Achievable – Set challenging but realistic goals.
✅ Relevant – Ensure goals align with the student's needs.
✅ Time-bound – Provide a deadline, like “by the end of the school year.”

Meltdowns aren’t “bad behavior”—they're a sign that a student is overwhelmed.

🔹 Stay calm – Keep your energy low to avoid escalating the situation.
🔹 Reduce stimuli – Move to a quieter space, dim lights, or lower noise levels.
🔹 Use short, clear phrases – Say, “You are safe. I am here to help.”
🔹 Offer a calming strategy – Weighted items, fidgets, or deep pressure can help.
🔹 Reflect afterward – Identify triggers and adjust supports accordingly.

Sensory tools help students regulate their emotions and focus in the classroom. Some favorites include:

🦷 Chewelry – Great for students who need oral sensory input.
🛏 Weighted blankets/lap pads – Provide calming deep pressure.
🤲 Fidgets – Stress balls, pop-its, putty, or manipulatives.
🎧 Noise-canceling headphones – Help block out overwhelming sounds.
🪑 Flexible seating – Wobble stools, beanbags, or floor cushions.

Life skills are essential for independence! Try these strategies:

🏪 Set up real-world activities – Create a mock grocery store, restaurant, or post office for hands-on learning.
📝 Break tasks into small steps – Use visual checklists to guide students through tasks (e.g., handwashing, packing a lunch).
🔁 Practice, practice, practice – Repetition builds confidence!

Communication isn’t just about words! Here are effective alternatives:

📸 Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) – Students exchange pictures to communicate needs.
📱 AAC devices and apps – Assistive technology can give students a voice.
🤟 Sign language & gestures – Even basic signs like “help” or “more” make a huge difference.
🎨 Visual supports – Choice boards, emotion charts, and first/then boards provide communication alternatives.
👀 Model communication – Encourage peers and staff to use visuals and gestures.

Share This Episode:
If you found this episode helpful, share it with a fellow educator or parent, and leave a review to help others discover these strategies.