I’ve got a short and sweet episode for you today!  I’ll be sharing 3 tips for introducing a morning meeting or circle time to young autistic children in a self-contained preschool classroom.  If you are an educator working in that setting, you don’t want to miss this episode!

Topics Discussed:

• Preparing and getting organized before starting a circle time for young autistic children in a special education preschool classroom

• Using visual supports, such as a visual mini-schedule, and all done bucket during group time

• Using songs to signal the end of group time

Links Mentioned In This Episode About Visual Supports:

• Visual Supports Starter Set

• Blog Posts Related To “Routines”

• What My Preschool Autism Classroom Looked Like

Save your seat at my upcoming Circle Time Masterclass here.

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.

Welcome back to the Autism Little Learners Podcast. I’m Tara, and I’m so glad you’re here today. If you’ve been following along, this is Part 2 of our series on potty training autistic children with compassion.

In our last episode, we talked about why potty training can be harder for autistic kids, how to prepare the environment, and how to build comfort and readiness before we ever expect a child to actually use the toilet. We also talked about some of the common pitfalls to avoid—like forcing kids to sit on the toilet every 10 minutes, or relying on outdated “3-day potty training” advice that just doesn’t work for many of our kids.

If you missed that episode, I highly recommend going back to listen first, because it really sets the foundation for everything we’ll talk about today.

In this episode, we’re moving into the “how.” We’ll go over practical strategies for implementation, how to track progress and make adjustments, and we’ll spend some time troubleshooting common challenges—things like fear of flushing, withholding, resistance, and nighttime dryness.

This episode is going to be full of tips you can use right away, so let’s dive in.

Takeaways

• Potty training is not linear—setbacks are normal, and small steps forward are worth celebrating.

• Visual supports like cue cards, schedules, and step-by-step sequences give structure and predictability.

• Pairing bathroom trips with natural routines (after meals, before leaving the house, before bed) helps build consistency.

• Incorporating a child’s special interests into social stories, visuals, or play makes potty training more engaging.

• Tracking data helps you see patterns and know whether strategies are working or need to be adjusted.

• Fear of flushing can be reduced by covering sensors on automatic toilets or using noise-reducing headphones.

• Resistance behaviors like excessive flushing or playing in toilet water can be redirected to alternative sensory activities.

• Withholding urine or bowel movements is often about anxiety or routine preference—focus on relaxation, stability, and medical checks if needed.

• Nighttime dryness is a separate developmental milestone and often comes much later—don’t let it overshadow daytime progress.

Resources & Links:

Free Potty Training Guide: www.autismlittlelearners.com/toilet

Potty Training Course: www.autismlittlelearners.com/pottycourse

Potty Training List In Tara’s Amazon Shop: https://amzn.to/45TD6lX

You may also be interested in these supports:

1. Visual Support Starter Set 

2. Visual Supports Facebook Group

3. Autism Little Learners on Instagram

4. Autism Little Learners on Facebook

In this special two-part series we’re tackling one of the biggest challenges many parents and educators face—potty training autistic children. I’ll be sharing compassionate, practical strategies that take into account sensory differences, communication needs, and interoception, so you can feel more confident guiding your autistic child or students. Whether you’re just getting started or stuck somewhere in the process, this series will give you the tools and encouragement you need.

Takeaways

• Potty training autistic children is not a sprint—it’s a marathon (or at least a half-marathon). Progress looks different for every child.

• Sensory sensitivities, interoception challenges, and communication differences are three of the biggest reasons potty training can be harder for autistic kids.

• Collecting baseline data (when accidents happen, how often they go) helps you build a roadmap for success.

• Making the bathroom inviting and sensory-friendly is a first step—soft lighting, calming colors, and incorporating favorite characters can reduce anxiety.

• Visual supports (bathroom symbols, step-by-step sequences, cue cards) build predictability and reduce uncertainty.

• Exposure without pressure is key—start with goals like entering the bathroom or sitting on the toilet fully clothed.

• Modeling helps—siblings, parents, dolls, or stuffed animals can demonstrate potty routines in a playful way.

• Social stories provide a predictable narrative that prepares children for what happens during potty time.

• Imitation skills (like copying silly faces or clapping) build the foundation for imitating potty routines later.

• Avoid common pitfalls: don’t put kids on the toilet every 10 minutes, don’t force long, stressful sits, and don’t expect “3-day training” timelines to work for every child.

Resources & Links:

Free Potty Training Guide: www.autismlittlelearners.com/toilet

Potty Training Course: www.autismlittlelearners.com/pottycourse

Potty Training List In Tara’s Amazon Shop: https://amzn.to/45TD6lX

Fostering positive relationships with autistic preschoolers is incredibly important. In this episode, I talk about emotional safety, understanding sensory needs, and the role of co-regulation in supporting self-regulation. The discussion highlights the need to step out of traditional teacher roles, validate autistic play, and harness deep interests to create meaningful connections. Core values such as compassion over compliance and honoring neurodiversity are explored, along with strategies for creating joyful, neuroaffirming classrooms. The conversation concludes with a focus on the long-term impact of connection and the importance of empowering educators and caregivers.

Takeaways:

• Positive relationships create emotional safety for children.
• Understanding sensory needs is crucial for connection.
• Co-regulation supports self-regulation in children.
• Stepping out of teacher mode fosters authentic connections.
• Autistic play is valid and meaningful, reflecting unique interactions.
• Deep interests can be a doorway to connection.
• Compassion over compliance is essential in education.
• Creating joyful, neuroaffirming classrooms enhances learning.
• Presuming competence in communication builds trust.
• Connection lays the foundation for long-term success.

Links:

Episode 90: Autism & Play Culture with Dr. Pamela Wolfberg https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autism-little-learners-podcast/id1665404820?i=1000671411034

Blog: Strength-Based Approach For Teaching Autistic Children: https://autismlittlelearners.com/strength-based-approach/

You may also be interested in these supports:

1. Visual Support Starter Set 

2. Visual Supports Facebook Group

3. Autism Little Learners on Instagram

4. Autism Little Learners on Facebook

Today’s episode is an encore of my conversation with Andi Putt, an incredible speech-language pathologist, and autism advocate. As we head back to school, it’s the perfect time to revisit this discussion on talking to kids about autism—whether it’s peers, siblings, or the autistic child themselves. Andi shares practical, positive strategies to start these conversations early and empower kids with understanding and empathy. 

Have you ever wondered how to talk to children about autism? In today’s episode, I had the honor of talking to Andi Putt about the importance of early conversations about autism, and how to empower autistic children through understanding their identity. We also talk about the significance of normalizing these conversations among peers and Andi offers some effective ways to explain autism to children. This episode is one that you are going to want to share with everyone you know! 

Takeaways

• Advocacy for autism should start early and be ongoing

• Understanding autism can empower children and improve mental health

• Conversations about autism should be age-appropriate and continuous

• Normalizing discussions about autism helps reduce stigma

• Children are often more accepting of differences than adults expect

• It's important to recognize individual needs in educational settings

• Open communication about autism can foster understanding among peers

• Language around autism should be positive and supportive

• General discussions about autism can help reduce bullying

• Empathy is crucial in understanding children's reactions

• Celebrating differences fosters a more inclusive environment

• Resources can help parents and educators communicate about autism

• Open conversations can lead to greater understanding among peers 

Bio:

Andi Putt, also known as Mrs. Speechie P, is an Autistic Speech Language Pathologist specializing in team-based Autism evaluations and neuro-affirming support. She is dedicated to empowering families and helping Autistic children understand and embrace their authentic selves while also advocating for each individual’s unique needs. When she’s not advocating for others, you can find her indulging in a good book, planning her next travel adventure, procrastinating literally anything, or enjoying time with her family.

Links: 

Andi’s website: https://www.mrsspeechiep.com/

Andi’s resources for talking to children about autism: https://www.mrsspeechiep.com/shop-all

Andi’s IG account (@mrsspeechiep): https://www.instagram.com/mrsspeechiep/?hl=en

You may also be interested in these supports:

1. Visual Support Starter Set 

2. Visual Supports Facebook Group

3. Autism Little Learners on Instagram

4. Autism Little Learners on Facebook

Let’s be honest, back-to-school can feel overwhelming. There’s excitement, sure, but there’s also anxiety—both for kids and for parents and caregivers. For autistic kids, who often thrive on predictability and routine, this transition can feel extra big.

The good news? We can make it easier. There are small, proactive things we can do that help autistic children feel safe, supported, and ready to learn. 

Today, I’m sharing four strategies that I’ve seen work time and time again

Takeaways

• Preparing autistic children for back-to-school with small, proactive steps can reduce anxiety and build confidence.

• A visual countdown calendar and practice runs make new routines feel predictable and easier to manage.

• Reading a social story daily helps children understand what to expect, making the first day feel familiar and safe.

• Personalizing social stories with school photos and teacher pictures increases comfort and understanding.

• Sharing a Child Interest Survey or “All About Me” sheet helps teachers connect quickly and support each child’s unique needs.

• Knowing a child’s favorite toys or interests can ease transitions and spark engagement on day one.

• Comfort items like a small toy, family photo, or fidget tool can provide emotional security throughout the school day.

• Progress, not perfection, is the goal—small, consistent steps create smoother transitions and more positive school experiences.

Links

Free Story Library (Going To School Story): :https://autismlittlelearners.myflodesk.com/xo348maka7

Child Interest Survey: https://autismlittlelearners.myflodesk.com/xq5o4kiwzd

All About Me Forms: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/All-About-Me-Template-For-Special-Education-11899087

You may also be interested in these supports from Autism Little Learners:

1. Visual Support Starter Set 

2. Visual Supports Facebook Group

3. Autism Little Learners on Instagram

4. Autism Little Learners on Facebook

In this powerful reflection episode, Tara shares one of the most impactful moments of her career—her conversation with Jordyn Zimmerman during the 2025 Preschool Autism Summit. Together, they unpack the importance of presuming competence, providing early AAC access, and creating neurodiversity-affirming learning spaces. Tara also shares emotional ripple stories from participants, illustrating how nearly 50,000 educators and therapists are creating waves of change for autistic children around the world.

Key Takeaways:

1. Presume competence—always. Speech is not the same as intelligence, and we must stop making assumptions based on verbal ability.

2. Non-speaking ≠ non-verbal. The term “non-verbal” implies a lack of language; “non-speaking” affirms that language exists, even without speech.

3. There are no prerequisites for AAC. Children do not need to match, point, or “behave” a certain way before receiving access to communication tools.

4. PECS is not a communication system. It is a requesting system and does not provide full language access.

5. AAC must include access to robust, literacy-based tools. Limiting a child to a core board or basic images restricts their ability to truly communicate.

6. Talking about students in front of them causes real harm. Many non-speaking students hear and understand far more than people assume.

7. Lack of access to communication is traumatic. It can lead to emotional and physical distress—and we have a responsibility to prevent that.

8. Real inclusion means access, not separation. Segregated classrooms limit growth and potential; all students deserve meaningful academic instruction.

9. Educators are making real-time ripples. From texting SLPs during the summit to creating team trainings, attendees are already pushing change.

10. Small shifts create big waves. With over 49,000 participants, the summit’s ripple effect may reach nearly half a million autistic children—and it all starts with choosing compassion over compliance.

Links

Jordyn’s Documentary: https://thisisnotaboutme.film/

Jordyn’s Website: https://www.jordynzimmerman.com/

You may also be interested in these supports:

1. Visual Support Starter Set 

2. Visual Supports Facebook Group

3. Autism Little Learners on Instagram

4. Autism Little Learners on Facebook

In this encore episode of The Autism Little Learners Podcast, Tara reconnects with Cari Ebert, a respected speech-language pathologist and passionate advocate for neurodiversity-affirming practices. Together, they revisit a powerful conversation that redefines what play and connection can look like for autistic children.

Cari shares valuable insights into why autistic play is real, meaningful, and should be honored as such. She explains how deep interests can be a gateway to learning, joy, and communication—and how adults can build stronger relationships with children by embracing these passions. The episode also explores the idea of presuming competence and cultivating supportive environments where every child feels seen and valued.

Whether you're hearing this conversation for the first time or listening again, it’s packed with practical ideas and heart-centered strategies to help you support autistic children in ways that truly honor who they are.

Key Takeaways:

• Autistic children experience and express play in unique, valid ways.

• Deep interests are powerful tools for building trust and engagement.

• Connection and respect must come before compliance or correction.

• Play is not a prerequisite for learning—it is learning.

• Presuming competence opens the door to authentic communication.

• Environments that support individuality fuel growth and joy.

• Reflecting on our practices helps us better support each child.

Bio: Cari Ebert, MS, CCC-SLP, is a pediatric speech-language pathologist in private practice in the Kansas City, Missouri area. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa in 1993 and her master’s degree from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 1995. Cari is a therapist, consultant, author, product developer, and nationally recognized speaker who gets paid to do what she loves most—TALK! She has an animated personality, and this translates to a high-energy speaking style. Cari has an Autistic son, allowing her to engage audiences both as a professional and as a parent of a neurodivergent child.

Website: www.cariebert.com

Cari's free handout "Autistic Play Is Authentic Play": https://cariebert.com/freebie

You may also be interested in these supports:

1. Visual Support Starter Set 

2. Visual Supports Facebook Group

3. Autism Little Learners on Instagram

4. Autism Little Learners on Facebook

In this episode, I’m sharing something really exciting with you—a sneak peek into the upcoming Preschool Autism Summit, happening July 14–16, 2025! You’ll get to hear short clips from some of our amazing presenters, and I’ll pop in between each one to give you a little intro and context.

These speakers are bringing so much heart, wisdom, and practical support to the table. Whether you're a special educator, SLP, OT, or a parent, you’re going to walk away from the summit feeling more confident, more supported, and ready to take action.

🎉 And hey—if you’re listening before July 17th, 2025, you still have time to grab your free ticket or upgrade to the All-Access Pass, which gives you access to all 25+ presentations for a full year, plus some amazing bonuses!

Grab your free ticket here: www.preshoolautismsummit.com

Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram to be the first to know about events like the Preschool Autism Summit: http://www.instagram.com/autismlittlelearners

Have an awesome day!

Tara

Hi there, and welcome back to the Autism Little Learners podcast! I’m Tara Phillips, and today I’m joined by speech-language pathologist Alexandria Zachos for an amazing conversation all about Gestalt Language Processing.

We talk about how our understanding of language development has evolved, the real struggles around prompt dependence, and why a child-led approach is so important—especially for Gestalt language processors. Alexandria shares so many helpful insights, including how we can better support these communicators by building authentic connections and honoring all the ways they express themselves.

Whether you’re a therapist, teacher, or parent, this episode is packed with practical strategies to encourage spontaneous language and support meaningful communication. I’m so excited for you to hear this one!

Takeaways

• Gestalt Language Processing is a natural way of developing language.

• Many SLPs are unaware of Gestalt Language Development despite its long history.

• Prompt dependence often stems from traditional teaching strategies.

• Child-led therapy is essential for fostering spontaneous communication.

• Silence can be a powerful tool in therapy sessions.

• Acknowledging all forms of communication builds trust with children.

• Using a child's Gestalt can enhance engagement and communication.

• Therapists should focus on the child's interests to promote language use.

• It's never too late to shift from prompt dependence to child-led approaches.

• Building authentic relationships is key to effective communication.

Bio

Alexandria Zachos is the founder, clinical director, owner, and senior speech-language pathologist with Social Butterfly Inc. and Meaningful Speech® She has been a practicing SLP for 21 years and has worked extensively with gestalt language processors since 2016, utilizing Blanc's Natural Language Acquisition protocol. She educates SLPs, parents, and related professionals through her social media platforms, podcasts, blogs, and her internationally acclaimed courses on http://Meaningfulspeech.com/. When she's not wearing her SLP hat she enjoys reading fiction, walking in the woods and spending time with her husband and daughters around Chicagoland.

Links

• Meaningfulspeech.com for everything!

• https://www.meaningfulspeech.com/free-resources for our free masterclass, free AAC+GLP beginner's guide, our blog, research & resources, podcasts, interviews, and webinars

• http://meaningfulspeech.com/course for our internationally acclaimed original GLP + child-led course (now over 30+ PDH and all USA SLPs need for their 3-year ASHA cycle!)

• http://meaningfulspeechregistry.com/ to find a local SLP who has GLP knowledge and can see your child locally. SLPs are invited to join after taking our course and passing the multiple choice and written exam with 80% or higher (feedback provided!). Must be able to take private clients. Not a list of those who have taken the course!

• http://meaningfulspeech.com/AAC-course for a direct link to our AAC+GLP course. Our instructor, Laura Hayes, is an AAC specialist and will teach you how to modify any AAC system for the GLP. We also have bonus modules showing specific recommendations for most AAC apps/devices currently being sold or offered for free.

You may also be interested in these supports

1. Visual Support Starter Set 

2. Visual Supports Facebook Group

3. Autism Little Learners on Instagram

4. Autism Little Learners on Facebook