Welcome back to the Autism Little Learners Podcast! Today, we're talking about something that often gets overlooked when we think about AAC and autism—teaching and honoring protests.

So often, AAC is used mostly for requesting items. But communication is about so much more. Autistic children need to know how to use their AAC systems for autism to say no, stop, don't like, all done, or help.

In this episode, I'll share why honoring protest is essential, what the difference is between acknowledging and honoring protests, and how modeling protest words on AAC for autistic kids builds trust, reduces frustration, and empowers children with self-advocacy.

I'll also walk you through the 8 Steps to Honor Protests—a simple framework you can start using right away in your classroom, therapy sessions, or at home.

So let's dive in and discover why protest isn't just communication—it's empowerment.

Takeaways:

AAC and autism go hand in hand—AAC should be used for more than requesting; it's for all communication.

Protest is valid communication, not misbehavior.

Honoring protests means changing, pausing, or stopping an activity when possible.

Acknowledging protests means validating and empathizing, even if you can't change what's happening.

AAC systems for autism should always include words for no, stop, don't like, all done, and different.

Modeling protest words daily helps children learn how to set boundaries and self-advocate.

Honoring protests builds trust and prevents escalation into meltdowns or shutdowns.

Following the 8 Steps to Honor Protests shifts teams and families from compliance to connection.

Link:

8 Steps To Honoring Protests Freebie: https://autismlittlelearners.myflodesk.com/ofzbilarwd

• Visual Support Starter Set (Free Download): www.autismlittlelearners.com/visuals

• Visual Supports Facebook Group

• Autism Little Learners on Instagram

• Autism Little Learners on Facebook

Transitions happen all day long—moving from playtime to circle time, heading to lunch, or wrapping up to go home. For many autistic children, these changes can feel overwhelming, confusing, or even distressing. But with the right understanding and tools, we can make transitions smoother and more predictable.

In this episode, I'm diving into why transitions can be hard for autistic kids and sharing practical, compassionate strategies to support them. You'll learn how to ease anxiety, build predictability, and create routines that work for both you and your students or child.

Whether you're an educator, therapist, or parent, this episode will help you see transitions through an autistic lens—and give you ideas you can use right away to make them more successful.

Takeaways:

• Predictable routines help autistic children feel safe and secure.

• Transitions can cause anxiety due to uncertainty or sensory overwhelm.

• Executive functioning differences make shifting attention harder.

• Emotional attachments to activities can make ending them distressing.

• Monotropism explains deep focus—and how it can be both a challenge and a strength.

• Visual schedules and countdown tools (like a star chart or all-done bucket) create structure and comfort.

• Empathy, validation, and preparation go a long way.

• Video modeling can make transitions more concrete and successful.

• Free Video Modeling Guide

• Blog Post: How To Use Video Modeling

• Related Podcast Episode #15

• More on Monotropism

• Visual Support Starter Set (Free Download): www.autismlittlelearners.com/visuals

• Visual Supports Facebook Group

• Autism Little Learners on Instagram

• Autism Little Learners on Facebook

In this special episode of The Autism Little Learners Podcast, I'm celebrating 10 years of Sesame Workshop's Autism Initiative and the creation of the beloved character, Julia! I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Kama Einhorn and Dr. Abigail Bucuvalas from Sesame Workshop to talk about the incredible impact of authentic representation, inclusion, and collaboration with the autism community.

We dive into how Julia was created to truly reflect the experiences of autistic children and families, the thoughtful research that goes into every Sesame Workshop project, and the global reach of their work. You'll also hear about puppeteer Stacey Gordon—whose personal connection to autism brings such authenticity to Julia's voice—and some exciting new projects on the horizon that continue to celebrate acceptance, understanding, and belonging for all children.

• Sesame Workshop's Autism Initiative has been making an impact for a decade.

• Julia was created to reflect the experiences of autistic children and promote understanding.

• Collaboration with autistic individuals, families, and experts is central to Sesame Workshop's process.

• Representation in media helps normalize conversations about autism and inclusion.

• Puppeteer Stacey Gordon brings personal insight and authenticity to Julia's character.

• Every piece of content is research-based and tested before release.

• The team continually evolves to ensure portrayals of autism are authentic and neurodiversity-affirming.

• Julia's story continues to grow — showing her friendships, family life, and even her communication with an AAC device.

• Free, bilingual resources are available for families at SesameWorkshop.org/Autism.

• The Autism Initiative has had a global impact, expanding to shows like Sisimpur in Bangladesh.

Before we jump in, I'd love to tell you a bit more about today's guests, Kama and Abby.

Kama Einhorn As Senior Director of Content Design for Sesame Workshop's Global Education group, Kama Einhorn develops multimedia resources for children, parents, and providers. Before joining the Workshop in 2004, she wrote and edited early childhood teaching resources for Scholastic. Kama holds a master's degree in education from the University of California at Berkeley.

Dr. Abigail Bucuvalas Dr. Abigail Bucuvalas is the Senior Director of Curriculum and Programs in the Global Education Department at Sesame Workshop. In this role, she leads the processes for curriculum development and program design, collaborates on monitoring and evaluation, and develops new project concepts within the areas of nature, health, and social norms and inclusion. Previously, she led education activities for LEGO Foundation-funded work in development and crisis-affected settings, managed educational content and partnerships for the Nigerian co-production of Sesame Street, and directed a professional development project for teachers in Ghana. Before joining Sesame Workshop, Abigail collaborated on health research in the U.S. and abroad, funded by the American Cancer Society and the National Institutes of Health. She holds an Ed.D. in Health Education and an Ed.M. in International Educational Development from Teachers College, Columbia University, and an A.B. in Psychology from Harvard University.

Explore all of Sesame Workshop's autism resources and celebrate Julia's 10th anniversary at www.sesameworkshop.org/autism.

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Autism Little Learners Website

Today, we're revisiting one of your favorite episodes — my conversation with Laura Hayes, a speech-language pathologist who specializes in AAC and supports gestalt language processors. Laura brings so much insight, compassion, and practical wisdom to the topic of AAC — you are going to love everything she shares!

If you missed this one the first time around (or even if you've heard it before), I encourage you to listen again — you'll walk away feeling inspired and equipped with new ideas you can use right away.

Bio: Laura Hayes is a speech-language pathologist with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in both school and medical settings. She's presented at state, national, and international conferences, been published, and supported both inpatient pediatric and educational AAC research. Laura currently hosts a podcast for her school district called Innovative AAC Solutions, and she created an online course on gestalt language processing and AAC through Meaningful Speech. She has helped thousands of AAC users move toward autonomous, meaningful communication.

In this encore episode, Laura and I dive into how to honor all forms of communication, presume competence, and model language in ways that truly empower our autistic students.

Topics we cover:

• Laura's Journey & AAC Innovations: How her sister inspired her path and how she helps others through her AAC Innovations platform.

• Common Missteps in AAC: Why phrases like "say it on your talker" may do more harm than good — and what to say instead.

• The Power of Modeling: Why seeing adults model AAC helps children build authentic, autonomous communication.

• Presuming Competence: How believing in every child's potential transforms our approach to teaching communication.

• Gestalt Language Processing & AAC: Understanding how some children learn language in chunks and what that means for AAC support.

Connect with Laura Hayes:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aac_innovations/

Resources Mentioned:

• Lily's Voice – Providing AAC devices for children in need: https://www.instagram.com/lillysvoice/

• Meaningful Speech Course: AAC & Gestalt Language Processing

• The Role Of Perception In AAC (PrAACtical AAC)

• Stimming And AAC (YouTube)

Key Takeaways:

• AAC support is a learning journey — and that's okay!

• Every child's language development looks different, and all communication attempts matter.

• Microlearning AAC strategies can build confidence for educators and caregivers over time.

AAC devices give children access to communication all day long—not just during therapy or structured lessons. For many students in the special ed classroom, the key to success isn't just having an AAC communication device, but actually using it in meaningful, everyday contexts.

This is especially true when we think about AAC device autism connections. Many autistic children benefit from consistent access to AAC, whether they are nonspeaking, minimally speaking, or have unreliable speech. Embedding AAC in daily routines ensures that communication is always possible.

The good news? You don't need extra time or complicated materials to make this happen. With a little intention, you can build AAC use into the routines you're already doing. In this post, I'll share three simple, powerful ways to incorporate AAC devices into daily routines.

Takeaways:

AAC devices belong in daily routines, not just in therapy sessions. Real-life practice helps children learn communication more naturally.

Embedding AAC into the special ed classroom shows students that their AAC communication device is a valid and reliable voice.

Transitions are powerful practice opportunities—using an AAC device for autistic children during arrival, lining up, or clean-up builds consistency.

Mealtime routines are motivating and perfect for modeling words like eat, drink, more, different, and don't like.

Play and learning activities make communication fun—AAC devices can be used during block play, dramatic play, sensory bins, and art.

Circle time is a group setting where AAC can shine and is ideal for modeling language.

Families can use AAC at home during everyday routines like waking up, chores, family time, and bedtime.

Taking AAC into the community—at grocery stores, restaurants, or playgrounds—gives children real-world practice and builds confidence.

Related podcast episodes:

#24

#96

#143

#144

You may also be interested in these supports:

• Visual Support Starter Set: www.autismlittlelearners.com/visuals

• Visual Supports Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3922278281209994/

• Autism Little Learners on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/autismlittlelearners

• Autism Little Learners on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/autismlittlelearners/

If you're enjoying the Autism Little Learners Podcast, I'd love for you to leave a rating and review—it helps more educators and parents find these conversations and join our community.

Welcome back to the Autism Little Learners Podcast! Today we're talking about a message that I'm deeply passionate about: there are no prerequisites to robust AAC.

For far too long, people have believed that children need to prove they're "ready" before being given a robust AAC device. But that simply isn't true. AAC and autism go hand in hand, and every child deserves access to communication—whether they are speaking, nonspeaking, or minimally speaking.

In this episode, I'll bust some common ©uld never be treated as a last resort—it's a lifeline for connection, autonomy, and confidence.

• Robust AAC is for everyone—there are no prerequisites for access.

• AAC and autism are not separate; AAC gives autistic children a reliable voice.

• Waiting for readiness only delays communication and increases frustration.

• Robust AAC devices support language development, not just basic needs.

• Modeling AAC is key—input comes before output, just like with spoken language.

• Providing robust AAC does not stop speech; in fact, it can encourage it.

• Starting with full systems (instead of limited boards) builds long-term success.

• Giving access to robust AAC from the start respects children's autonomy and presumes competence.

Welcome back to the Autism Little Learners Podcast! Today we're diving into one of the most powerful strategies for supporting communication in young autistic children—modeling AAC.

Just like children learn spoken language by hearing it all around them, AAC users need to see and hear their language modeled on their device or core board. In this episode, we'll talk about what modeling AAC is, why it matters, and how you can start using it in your daily routines—even if you don't have a high-tech device yet.

We'll also bust some common myths, share practical tips for modeling without expectation, and explore how modeling goes far beyond just requesting—it's about helping kids express their feelings, build confidence, and connect with the people around them.

So let's jump in and discover how you can make communication accessible, joyful, and empowering through the simple practice of modeling AAC.

Takeaways:

• There are no prerequisites to robust AAC—all children deserve access to communication right now.

• Modeling AAC means pairing spoken words with symbols on a device or core board to show how language works.

• Modeling without expectation is key—input matters more than immediate output.

• Consistent modeling builds language growth, confidence, and autonomy for AAC users.

• Myths debunked: AAC doesn't stop speech, it doesn't confuse children, and you don't need to be a tech expert to model.

• Start small: choose one routine (like snack or play) and model 1–2 high-frequency core words.

• If you don't have a device yet, you can begin with core boards to give children access now.

• Remember, progress over perfection—every modeled word is a seed planted toward communication success.

Links & Related Podcast Episodes:

• Free core board: www.autismlittlelearners.com/visuals

• Episode #96: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autism-little-learners-podcast/id1665404820?i=1000676636848

• Episode #24: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autism-little-learners-podcast/id1665404820?i=1000618489743

Today on the Autism Little Learners Podcast, I'm joined by Julia DeNey, founder of Sensational You—a brand dedicated to creating adaptive clothing for children with sensory differences. Julia's journey is such an inspiring one. She started in the world of fashion, but it was her time working in special education that opened her eyes to just how much sensory needs can impact a child's ability to learn and thrive.

Sensory friendly clothes can make everyday life easier for autistic kids. In this episode, learn how adaptive clothing supports comfort, confidence, and learning. I can't wait for you to hear this conversation!

Takeaways

• Julia's background in fashion led her to create Sensational You.

• Sensory needs can significantly impact children's learning.

• Adaptive clothing can help minimize sensory irritations.

• Real-life feedback from families is crucial for product development.

• The importance of understanding dysregulation in children.

• Innovative designs include built-in sensory tools.

• Community support has been vital for Sensational You's growth.

• The future vision includes a wider range of sensory-friendly products.

• Adaptive fashion should be accessible in mainstream stores.

• Sensory-friendly solutions are becoming more recognized in society.

Bio & Links

Julia DeNey studied Fashion Design at Cornell University and later worked as a special-education paraprofessional with autistic students. Combining her design expertise with her classroom experience, she founded Sense-ational You, an adaptive clothing brand that supports individuals with autism, ADHD, and sensory sensitivities.

https://shopsenseationalyou.com/

https://shopsenseationalyou.com/pages/back-to-school-sensory-checklist

https://www.instagram.com/senseational_you/

https://www.tiktok.com/@senseational_you

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sensational You

02:52 The Journey from Fashion to Sensory Solutions

05:49 Understanding Sensory Needs in Education

08:40 Innovative Adaptive Clothing Designs

11:31 Real-Life Impact of Sensory Clothing

14:15 Feedback and Community Support

17:19 Future Vision for Sensational You

20:15 Conclusion and Resources

You may also be interested in these supports:

• Visual Support Starter Set: www.autismlittlelearners.com/visuals

• Visual Supports Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3922278281209994/

• Autism Little Learners on Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/autismlittlelearners

• Autism Little Learners on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/autismlittlelearners/

If you're enjoying the Autism Little Learners Podcast, I'd love for you to leave a rating and review—it helps more educators and parents find these conversations and join our community.

In today's episode of the Autism Little Learners Podcast, I'm joined by Sofia Dumery, Senior Vice President of Design at Melissa & Doug® Toys. If you've ever wondered what goes into creating timeless, high-quality toys that truly support children's development, you're going to love this conversation. We dive into the importance of open-ended play, how toys can spark language and connection, and why durability, inclusivity, and sustainability matter so much in toy design. Whether you're a parent, educator, or therapist, you'll come away with fresh inspiration for using play as a powerful tool for learning and connection.

Sofia also explains Melissa & Doug's commitment to inclusivity, durability, and safety, including their extensive testing process and collaborations with occupational therapists. We discuss how sensory elements and realistic designs make their toys appealing to children of all abilities, while also easing fears and building confidence. Finally, we highlight surprising ways their toys have been used in therapy and at home, and how play—when led with joy and creativity—strengthens relationships and creates rich learning opportunities.

About Sofia Dumery

As Senior Vice President of Design at Melissa & Doug®, Sofia Dumery oversees the creation of all toys and ensures those toys deliver on the brand's mission to ignite imagination and wonder in all children so they discover their passions and their purpose. She leads a team across blue-sky innovation, product, and licensing design. The team is committed to ensuring its inclusive, open-ended products help kids of all abilities build confidence and develop essential skills.

In addition to setting the product's vision and strategy, Sofia is responsible for all new toy innovations, working with independent inventors, external partners, and in-house creative team. She holds 17 patents and is always searching for breakthrough innovations. Sofia works closely to ensure toys not only meet children's play patterns and market expectations but also deliver on key sustainability goals.

Prior to joining Melissa & Doug® in 2011, Sofia was Design Director at Callaway Arts & Entertainment. There, she built the product strategy and growth of Sunny Patch, at that time an exclusive line for Target.

Sofia holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Columbia College, Columbia University, and a Masters in Industrial Design from Pratt University. She, her daughter and their cat Kiwi live in Westport, Connecticut. When it comes to play, Sofia's passions include biking, camping, and reading.

About Melissa & Doug®

From classic wooden toys to realistic pretend play sets, Melissa & Doug® products inspire creative thinking through screen-free, open-ended play! We make well-crafted toys that are developed with care to be passed down from generation to generation or shared family to family. When kids play with Melissa & Doug® toys, anything is possible!

Melissa & Doug® Links:

Website: https://www.melissaanddoug.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissaanddougtoys/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelissaAndDoug/

Takeaways

1. Purposeful, open-ended play matters – Melissa & Doug focus on toys that encourage imagination, creativity, and engagement rather than passive entertainment

2. Classic play patterns never go out of style – Blocks, pretend play, and exploratory play still hold the same developmental value they did generations ago

3. Toys support language development – Hands-on play is deeply connected to building speech, language, and social skills, making it especially valuable for young learners

4. Designing with inclusivity in mind – Melissa & Doug avoid rigid age labels, build toys with realistic details, and create open-ended opportunities for all children to play at their own level

5. Durability and quality are key – Toys are tested extensively (even "gorilla tested") to ensure they perform well, reducing frustration and supporting consistent learning experiences

6. Neurodiversity is part of the mission – The company researches child development, collaborates with occupational therapists, and designs toys that avoid overwhelming sensory input while still providing tactile experiences

7. Realism helps children learn about their world – From the dentist set to ice cream counters, realistic details prepare kids for real-life experiences and help ease fears Sustainability and safety are priorities – Melissa & Doug use FSC-certified wood, focus on long-lasting design, and test rigorously to meet the highest safety standards

8. Unexpected ways toys are used – From sensory bins with puzzle pieces to elderly adults using Water Wow! for calming effects, Melissa & Doug toys support creativity across ages and abilities

9. Play builds connection – When adults model joy, silliness, and curiosity with toys, it deepens relationships with children and enriches their learning

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

By popular demand, we're bringing back one of the most impactful episodes! This conversation dives into the powerful link between stress and behavior in autistic children, and why compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming approaches make all the difference.

You'll discover how to reframe behavior as communication, support self-advocacy, and create environments that reduce stress and meet the unique needs of autistic children. Whether you're an educator, therapist, or parent, this episode offers practical tools you can use right away.

Key Takeaways:

1. Stress and behavior are closely linked for autistic children.

2. Environments that increase stress can make behaviors harder.

3. Behavior is communication—understanding it is essential.

4. Compassionate approaches focus on unmet needs, not compliance.

5. Compliance-driven methods can harm emotional well-being.

6. Self-advocacy is critical for safety and empowerment.

7. Protests and refusals are valid forms of communication.

8. Predictable routines can ease anxiety.

9. Co-regulation helps children manage emotions.

10. Communication tools empower autistic children to thrive.

Resources & Links:

Research article #1: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6061115/

Research article #2: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3245359/

Calming Kit for preschoolers: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Calm-Down-Kit-For-Calming-Corner-In-Special-Education-8140160

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