Unfiltered Autistic with Amanda McGuinness

ACCESS FREE AUTISM CLASS RESOURCE LIBRARY: https://www.flourishautismconsultancyandtraining.com/autism-class-support

Episode 4: Target Setting & Teaching Approaches

Meaningful learning begins by understanding the child, not by following a programme.

In Episode 4 of Inside the Autism Classroom, Amanda McGuinness and experienced Autism Class teacher Elaine Fitzgerald explore how to create meaningful, individualised learning experiences through strengths-based target setting and neuroaffirmative teaching approaches. Designed for Autism Class teachers, SNAs, and education professionals, this practical conversation focuses on planning that is responsive to each child's unique profile, interests, communication, and regulation needs.

Drawing on Elaine's classroom experience, the episode explores how thematic teaching can transform learning by using children's interests as the foundation for literacy, numeracy, communication, play, and wider curriculum experiences. Amanda and Elaine discuss why planning should remain flexible, relationship-centred, and regulation-first, while ensuring every learner can meaningfully access the curriculum.

The conversation introduces Universal Design for Learning (UDL) as a practical framework for Autism Classes, exploring how offering multiple ways to engage, learn, communicate, and demonstrate understanding creates more accessible learning environments. Elaine also shares how she uses videos, music, movement, sensory experiences, creative activities, and technology, including AI, to develop engaging classroom themes and teaching ideas.

Amanda and Elaine also examine how to develop meaningful Student Support Plans that move beyond deficit-based thinking. Together they discuss collaborating with parents to identify priorities, writing strengths-based targets that reflect each child's individuality, and recognising that life skills, communication, emotional wellbeing, autonomy, and participation are just as important as academic achievement. Throughout the episode, they encourage educators to use language that reflects possibility, dignity, and respect while building educational goals that genuinely matter to children and their families.

Whether you are planning your first Autism Class or looking to strengthen your teaching practice, this episode provides practical ideas, evidence-informed guidance, and reflective discussion to help create learning experiences that are flexible, engaging, and truly centred on the individual Autistic learner.

Key topics include:

• Individualised target setting for Autistic learners
• Thematic teaching and interest-based learning
• Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
• Strengths-based Student Support Plans
• Collaborating with parents on educational goals
• Neuroaffirmative teaching approaches
• Using videos, music, play, and sensory experiences to support learning
• Flexible curriculum planning
• Life skills, communication, and participation-focused teaching
• Practical strategies for Autism Class teachers

ACCESS FREE AUTISM CLASS RESOURCE LIBRARY: https://www.flourishautismconsultancyandtraining.com/autism-class-support

Episode 3: Working Together

Supporting Autistic pupils is never the responsibility of one person. It is built through collaboration, trust, and shared understanding.

In Episode 3 of Inside the Autism Classroom, Amanda McGuinness and experienced Autism Class teacher Elaine Fitzgerald explore how strong partnerships between Autism Class teachers, Special Needs Assistants (SNAs), mainstream teachers, school leaders, parents, and multidisciplinary professionals create the conditions for Autistic learners to feel safe, understood, and able to participate meaningfully in school life.

Designed for Autism Class teachers, SNAs, school leaders, and education professionals, this episode examines why successful Autism Classes are shaped by the culture of the whole school, not simply what happens inside one classroom. Amanda and Elaine discuss how leadership influences inclusion, why professional learning matters at every level of a school, and how a shared neuroaffirmative ethos strengthens outcomes for both pupils and staff.

Drawing upon Elaine's classroom experience and Amanda's professional expertise and lived experience as an Autistic adult and parent, the conversation explores practical ways to build positive relationships with mainstream teachers, encourage meaningful inclusion opportunities, and create confidence among colleagues who may have little previous experience of supporting Autistic pupils.

The episode also highlights the invaluable contribution of Special Needs Assistants, recognising that collaborative teamwork, shared reflection, and consistent communication create calmer, more predictable learning environments. Amanda and Elaine discuss how valuing every member of the classroom team strengthens co-regulation, improves consistency, and ultimately benefits every child.

Listeners will also hear an honest discussion about working alongside families. Amanda and Elaine explore why parents should be recognised as equal partners in decision making, how strengths-based communication builds trust, and why listening to family expertise is essential when developing meaningful educational supports. They also examine the realities of working with multidisciplinary professionals, acknowledging the challenges many schools face while offering practical strategies for building productive relationships with therapists and external agencies.

The conversation concludes by exploring the power of school culture, reverse inclusion, relationship-centred practice, and shared responsibility. Rather than viewing inclusion as the responsibility of one classroom, Amanda and Elaine demonstrate how whole-school collaboration creates environments where Autistic pupils experience genuine belonging, participation, and respect.

Whether you are establishing a new Autism Class, leading an existing team, or looking to strengthen collaborative practice within your school, this episode offers practical advice, reflective discussion, and evidence-informed guidance for building partnerships that place Autistic pupils at the centre of every decision.

Key topics include:

• Building collaborative Autism Class teams
• Working effectively with Special Needs Assistants (SNAs)
• Supporting mainstream teachers and inclusive school practice
• The role of school leaders and whole-school culture
• Building positive partnerships with parents
• Working alongside multidisciplinary professionals
• Meaningful mainstream inclusion and reverse inclusion
• Strengths-based communication and relationship-centred practice
• Creating consistency across home, school, and support services
• Practical neuroaffirmative approaches to collaborative working

ACCESS FREE AUTISM CLASS RESOURCE LIBRARY: https://www.flourishautismconsultancyandtraining.com/autism-class-supportEpisode 2: Regulation & Co-RegulationRegulation is not a reward for learning. It is the foundation that makes learning possible.In Episode 2 of Inside the Autism Classroom, Amanda McGuinness and experienced Autism Class teacher Elaine Fitzgerald explore one of the most important aspects of supporting Autistic learners: understanding regulation and the vital role of co-regulation within Autism Classes.Designed for Autism Class teachers, SNAs, school leaders, and education professionals, this practical conversation moves beyond behaviour-based approaches to examine the neuroscience of regulation, why every Autistic learner has a unique regulatory profile, and how classrooms can become environments where children experience safety, connection, and genuine readiness to learn.Drawing upon contemporary neuroaffirmative practice alongside real classroom experience, Amanda and Elaine discuss why regulation must come before academic expectations, how teachers can identify each child's individual regulation needs, and why observation, curiosity, and collaboration are more valuable than assumptions. Together they explore practical starting points for teachers entering an Autism Class for the first time, including creating sensory-supportive environments, using regulation checklists, and developing flexible classroom routines that respond to each child's needs rather than expecting every child to fit the same approach.The episode also highlights the importance of adult self-regulation, recognising that co-regulation begins with the nervous system of the adult. Amanda and Elaine discuss reflective practice, the emotional demands placed upon educators, and why regulated adults are better able to support regulated children.Listeners will discover practical strategies for supporting diverse sensory and communication profiles, including movement, sensory exploration, environmental adaptations, clothing considerations, and in-the-moment regulation supports. The conversation also explores the value of energy regulation frameworks, the importance of consistency across the classroom team, and why strong communication between teachers, SNAs, families, and multidisciplinary professionals creates safer, more predictable experiences for Autistic pupils.Amanda also shares contemporary evidence-informed resources, including the work of Autism Level Up, while Elaine reflects on the everyday realities of implementing neuroaffirmative practice within a busy Autism Class. Together they encourage teachers to seek collaboration with occupational therapists and other professionals while recognising that relationship-based practice remains at the heart of effective support.Whether you are preparing for your first Autism Class or looking to strengthen your understanding of regulation, this episode provides practical strategies, reflective discussion, and evidence-informed guidance to help create classrooms where Autistic learners feel safe, understood, and ready to participate.Key topics include:Understanding the neuroscience of regulationWhy regulation comes before learningCo-regulation strategies for Autism ClassesSupporting sensory and movement needsEnergy regulation and practical classroom toolsTeacher self-regulation and reflective practiceCreating regulation-supportive classroom environmentsConsistency across teachers and SNAsWorking alongside occupational therapists and multidisciplinary professionalsPractical neuroaffirmative strategies for supporting Autistic learners

ACCESS FREE AUTISM CLASS RESOURCE LIBRARY: https://www.flourishautismconsultancyandtraining.com/autism-class-supportIn the first episode of Inside the Autism Classroom, Amanda McGuinness is joined by experienced Autism Class teacher Elaine Fitzgerald to explore the foundations of creating a successful, neuroaffirmative Autism Class. Drawing on both professional expertise and lived experience, this practical conversation offers reassurance and realistic guidance for teachers preparing to open or join an Autism Class for the very first time.Rather than focusing on paperwork or rigid timetables, Amanda and Elaine discuss why meaningful relationships should always come first. Together they explore how to gather rich information from parents, previous educators, and early years settings, why reports only tell part of the story, and how understanding each child's unique communication, regulation, sensory profile, and interests creates the foundation for effective teaching.The episode examines how to thoughtfully prepare the physical classroom environment, create flexible visual schedules, establish predictable routines, and balance structure with responsiveness. Elaine shares practical advice on planning one day at a time, rather than becoming overwhelmed by designing the perfect timetable before children even walk through the classroom door.Listeners will also discover why co-regulation begins with the adults, how to build collaborative relationships with Special Needs Assistants (SNAs), and why creating a positive classroom culture among staff directly influences children's sense of safety and regulation. The discussion highlights the importance of valuing every member of the classroom team and recognising that collaborative practice leads to better outcomes for everyone.Amanda and Elaine also explore what authentic relationship building actually looks like in practice. From following a child's interests and respecting communication differences, to joining in play, embracing silence, and stepping into a child's world rather than expecting them to step into ours, this episode reframes the first weeks of school as an opportunity to build trust before introducing expectations.The conversation concludes with an honest discussion about meaningful mainstream inclusion, emphasising that inclusion should never become an end goal in itself. Instead, Amanda and Elaine discuss how decisions should always be guided by each child's wellbeing, regulation, participation, and genuine sense of belonging. The episode finishes by exploring compassionate partnerships with parents, recognising that families often arrive carrying years of advocacy, uncertainty, and hope, making respectful collaboration one of the most important aspects of an Autism Class teacher's role.Whether you're preparing to teach in your very first Autism Class, moving into specialist education, or looking to strengthen your neuroaffirmative classroom practice, this episode provides practical advice, reflective discussion, and evidence-informed guidance to help you start the school year with confidence.

Access your FREE Downloads here:

https://www.flourishautismconsultancyandtraining.com/autism-classes/inside-the-autism-classroom-podcast

Key topics include:Preparing for your first Autism ClassGathering meaningful information from families and previous educatorsCreating low arousal, regulation-supportive classroom environmentsVisual schedules, routines, and flexible planningBuilding collaborative relationships with SNAsRelationship-first teaching approachesSupporting non-speaking and AAC usersMeaningful mainstream inclusionPartnering with parents through trust, communication, and collaborationPractical advice for new Autism Class teachers

In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Kerry Murphy, early childhood education specialist, lecturer, author and founder of Diverse Pathways for Early Childhood, for a thought-provoking conversation about what it truly means to create neurodiversity-affirming practice in the early years.

Drawing on more than two decades of experience, Kerry explores why early childhood is such a critical period for shaping identity, belonging and lifelong wellbeing. Together, Amanda and Kerry examine how traditional developmental frameworks, deficit-based thinking and compliance-driven practices continue to influence early years education, often at the expense of Autistic and otherwise neurodivergent children.

The conversation explores the importance of moving beyond labels and checklists towards understanding each child as an individual with their own unique constellation of strengths, needs, interests and ways of engaging with the world. Kerry shares practical insights into creating inclusive environments that protect autonomy, honour communication in all its forms, reframe behaviour through a neuroaffirmative lens, and challenge ableist assumptions that have become embedded within education systems.

Amanda and Kerry also discuss play, relationships, regulation, professional curiosity, ethical practice and the role of educators in driving meaningful systemic change. Throughout the episode, they highlight how neurodiversity-affirming practice benefits not only neurodivergent children but every child, creating environments where diversity is understood, valued and celebrated.

Whether you are an early years educator, teacher, school leader, therapist, student, policymaker or parent, this episode offers evidence-informed, reflective and practical insights that will encourage you to think differently about childhood, inclusion and what it means to truly support neurodivergent children.

If you're passionate about Autism, neurodiversity, inclusive education, early childhood practice, SEND, play-based learning and creating environments where every child belongs, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Learn More from Kerry Murphy

If this conversation resonates with you and you're passionate about creating truly neurodiversity-affirming early childhood environments, be sure to explore Diverse Pathways for Early Childhood, Kerry Murphy's platform dedicated to reimagining child development, play, communication, behaviour and regulation through an affirming, anti-ableist lens. Grounded in research, lived experience and practice, Diverse Pathways supports educators, leaders, specialists and families to create environments where neurodivergent children are understood, valued and able to thrive.

Join the Early Childhood Neurodiversity-Affirming Summit

Kerry is also the founder of the Early Childhood Neurodiversity-Affirming Summit, an online professional learning event bringing together leading voices in early childhood, Autism, disability, inclusion and neurodiversity. Designed for early years educators, teachers, therapists, school leaders, students and families, the summit explores evidence-informed, neurodiversity-affirming approaches to play, communication, development, regulation and inclusive practice.

Learn more and book your place:

https://diversepathways.thinkific.com/products/courses/summitpass

Connect with Kerry

🌐 Website: https://diversepathways.org/

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversepathways_earlyyears/

Through her website and social media, Kerry regularly shares practical resources, research insights, reflections on neurodiversity-affirming practice, and updates on training, publications and new projects, making them essential resources for anyone working with or supporting neurodivergent children.

Constipation is one of the most common childhood health conditions, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood, particularly for Autistic and neurodivergent children. Many families don't realise that constipation can develop gradually, present with subtle signs, and have a significant impact on a child's comfort, behaviour, bladder function and toilet learning.

In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Ann Costigan, founder of @pooandtheloo, for the first of a two-part series exploring childhood bowel health.

Ann is also the Co-founder and Chair of Children's Continence Ireland, bringing together healthcare professionals working in paediatric continence to improve education, collaboration and services for children and families.

Together, Amanda and Ann unpack what constipation really looks like in children, why it is so frequently missed, and how recognising the early signs can prevent longer-term bowel and bladder difficulties. They also discuss why constipation and toilet learning are so closely connected, particularly for Autistic children and those with additional developmental needs.

• What childhood constipation actually is and why it is often overlooked.

• The subtle signs of constipation that many parents and professionals miss.

• How constipation can affect bladder function, wetting, behaviour and emotional wellbeing.

• Why constipation is so common during infancy, toilet learning and periods of transition.

• The relationship between constipation and successful toilet learning.

• How bowel habits, diet, hydration and routines influence bowel health.

• Understanding macrogol medications, disimpaction and current evidence-based treatment approaches.

• Why tracking bowel movements can provide valuable information for families and healthcare professionals.

• Practical strategies to support bowel health while reducing stress for children and families.

• When to seek support from your GP and other healthcare professionals.

This is Part One of a two-part series with Ann Costigan. In Part Two, Amanda and Ann explore poo withholding, toilet learning after previous unsuccessful attempts, and practical strategies for supporting children to develop confidence around using the toilet.

Helpful books, resources and supports for families.⁠https://tr.ee/saUPdQihi6⁠A practical checklist designed to help parents recognise the often subtle signs of constipation and identify when further assessment or support may be needed.⁠https://tr.ee/-Tgj5sK_Nc⁠A helpful guide to support conversations with your GP, outlining the information that may assist in assessing constipation, stool withholding, toileting difficulties, and bowel health.⁠https://tr.ee/KeJhYU0E7T⁠A parent-friendly resource explaining macrogol medications, how they work, and their role in treating childhood constipation.⁠https://tr.ee/9oZSlhZdSe⁠Information to help parents understand the disimpaction process, why it may be needed, and what to expect during treatment.⁠https://tr.ee/fQ_k5qvGr0⁠A beautifully illustrated children's book that can help normalise conversations about poo, reduce anxiety around toileting, and support children experiencing stool withholding or fear of poo.⁠https://www.amazon.ie/princess-who-wa...Kids Physiotherapy Waterford⁠https://kidsphysiotherapywaterford.ie/⁠Leah Bryans Physiotherapy⁠https://leahbryansphysiotherapy.com/⁠Anatomy Physiotherapy⁠https://anatomyphysiotherapy.ie/⁠National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)Constipation in Children and Young People: Diagnosis and Management (CG99)⁠https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg99⁠🌐 Website: ⁠https://www.littlepuddins.ie⁠

Autism, Poo Withholding & Toilet Learning | Why Autistic Children Withhold Poo & How to Help | Ann Costigan

Why do some Autistic children refuse to poo in the toilet? Why does stool withholding happen? How can parents support toilet learning without creating additional stress?

In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Ann Costigan, founder of @pooandtheloo, to explore one of the most common, yet least discussed, challenges affecting Autistic and neurodivergent children: poo withholding and toilet learning.

With over 13 years of experience as a Paediatric Colorectal and Stoma Clinical Nurse Specialist, Ann has supported hundreds of children and families experiencing constipation, stool withholding and toileting difficulties. She has a particular clinical interest in Idiopathic Constipation (constipation with no underlying medical cause) and toilet learning.

Ann created @pooandtheloo to provide clear, evidence-based education and practical advice for parents, with the aim of normalising conversations about poo, toileting, and bowel health. Her approach is supportive, non-judgemental, and always centred around the child and family. Through @pooandtheloo, she offers a wide range of free parent resources on Instagram, group Zoom sessions focusing on toilet learning and constipation, and one-to-one consultations tailored to each child's individual needs.

Ann is also the Co-founder and Chair of Children's Continence Ireland, bringing together healthcare professionals working in paediatric continence to improve education, collaboration and services for children and families.

Together, Amanda and Ann discuss why withholding develops, how constipation and the nervous system influence toileting, and why traditional toilet training approaches can often make things harder rather than easier.

• Why children withhold poo and how it often begins after a painful bowel movement.

• The connection between constipation, bladder difficulties and toilet learning.

• How the nervous system influences stool withholding.

• Why pressure, rewards and rushing toilet learning are often ineffective.

• Practical strategies to reduce anxiety around poo.

• How to restart toilet learning after previous unsuccessful attempts.

• The importance of meeting children where they are.

• When to seek support from your GP and other healthcare professionals.

• Helpful books, resources and supports for families.

https://tr.ee/saUPdQihi6

A practical checklist designed to help parents recognise the often subtle signs of constipation and identify when further assessment or support may be needed.

https://tr.ee/-Tgj5sK_Nc

A helpful guide to support conversations with your GP, outlining the information that may assist in assessing constipation, stool withholding, toileting difficulties, and bowel health.

https://tr.ee/KeJhYU0E7T

A parent-friendly resource explaining macrogol medications, how they work, and their role in treating childhood constipation.

https://tr.ee/9oZSlhZdSe

Information to help parents understand the disimpaction process, why it may be needed, and what to expect during treatment.

https://tr.ee/fQ_k5qvGr0

A beautifully illustrated children's book that can help normalise conversations about poo, reduce anxiety around toileting, and support children experiencing stool withholding or fear of poo.

https://www.amazon.ie/princess-who-was-afraid-poop/dp/B0FNMCQJ9Y

Kids Physiotherapy Waterford

https://kidsphysiotherapywaterford.ie/

Leah Bryans Physiotherapy

https://leahbryansphysiotherapy.com/

Anatomy Physiotherapy

https://anatomyphysiotherapy.ie/

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

Constipation in Children and Young People: Diagnosis and Management (CG99)

https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg99

🌐 Website: https://www.littlepuddins.ie

In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Danielle Jata-Hall of PDA Parenting to explore the realities of parenting and supporting children with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA).

Drawing on both lived experience and professional insight, Danielle shares her family's journey, the challenges of navigating a world that often misunderstands PDA, and the importance of creating environments that prioritise safety, trust, autonomy, and connection.

Together, Amanda and Danielle discuss the emotional impact of parental shame and judgement, the challenges of advocating for PDA children within educational systems, and the importance of moving beyond traditional behaviour-based approaches. The conversation explores emotional school avoidance, nervous system safety, family well-being, and practical ways to support children whose demand avoidance is rooted in anxiety and overwhelm.

This episode offers valuable insights for parents, caregivers, educators, therapists, and professionals seeking a deeper understanding of PDA and neurodivergent experiences.

Topics discussed include:

• What is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)?
• Danielle Jata-Hall's lived experience of PDA parenting
• Understanding demand avoidance through a neurobiological lens
• Parental shame, guilt, and judgement
• Emotional school avoidance and educational advocacy
• Supporting neurodivergent children at home and school
• Creating low-pressure, trust-based environments
• PDA resources, community support, and family well-being
• Autism, anxiety, autonomy, and nervous system safety

If you are parenting, teaching, or supporting a child with PDA, this conversation provides compassionate insight, practical guidance, and reassurance that you are not alone.

Danielle's incredible website: www.pdaparenting.com

#PDA #PDAParenting #PathologicalDemandAvoidance #Autism #Neurodiversity #NeurodivergentChildren #DemandAvoidance #SchoolAvoidance #AutisticChildren #Parenting #ParentAdvocacy #AutismSupport #PDAAwareness #Neuroaffirmative #DanielleJataHall #AmandaMcGuinness #TheUnfilteredAutisticPodcast

Adam Harris is one of Ireland's most recognised Autistic advocates and the CEO and founder of AsIAm - Ireland's Autism Charity . In this deeply personal episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness sits down with Adam as he prepares to step down as CEO of AsIAm and begin a new chapter as CEO of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland.

Rather than focusing on policy or organisational achievements alone, this conversation explores the person behind the public role. Adam reflects on growing up as an Autistic child in Ireland, the unwavering support of his parents, the experiences that shaped his confidence and identity, and the journey that led him to establish AsIAm while still a teenager.

Together, Amanda and Adam discuss:

• Adam Harris' Autism journey and growing up in Ireland
• The role his parents played in building confidence, self-belief and belonging
• Why inclusion, relationships and high expectations matter for Autistic children
• The story behind founding AsIAm
• What it takes to build lasting social change
• Leadership, advocacy and creating opportunities for future Autistic voices
• Autistic identity, burnout, vulnerability and self-acceptance
• Why Adam believes it is time to pass the torch to the next generation of leaders
• His move to Social Entrepreneurs Ireland and his hopes for Ireland's future

Throughout the conversation, Adam shares honest reflections on Autism, advocacy, leadership, family, education and creating a society where Autistic people are accepted, valued and respected.

Whether you are an Autistic adult, parent, educator, therapist, professional, researcher or someone passionate about disability rights and inclusion, this episode offers powerful insights into authentic leadership, community change and the importance of believing in people's potential.

This episode explores themes including:

• Autism
• Autistic Leadership
• Adam Harris's early life and his parents unwavering belief in him
• AsIAm - Ireland's Autism Charity
• Autistic Advocacy
• Neuroaffirmative Practice
• Disability Rights
• Inclusive Education
• Autism Acceptance
• Parenting Autistic Children
• Autistic Identity
• Autistic Burnout
• Social Entrepreneurship
• Inclusion
• Community Leadership

If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode to help more people discover neuroaffirmative conversations about Autism and authentic lived experience.

Follow Amanda McGuinness and Little Puddins for more evidence-informed Autism resources, professional learning, podcasts and practical supports for families, schools and professionals.

#Autism #Autistic #AdamHarris #AsIAm #AutismIreland #Neuroaffirmative #AutisticLeadership #DisabilityRights #Inclusion #Parenting #AutisticAdults #TheUnfilteredAutisticPodcast #LittlePuddins

Understanding the Waves of Regulation with Nikki Smit OT | Co-Regulation, Nervous Systems & Neurodivergent Well-Being

In this episode of The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast, Amanda McGuinness is joined by Nikki Smit, a neurodivergent Occupational Therapist, speaker, educator, and creator of the Waves of Regulation framework.

Together, they explore a compassionate understanding of regulation, moving beyond the idea that regulation simply means being calm. Nikki explains how regulation is about feeling safe and connected to our experience while managing the energy in our bodies and brains. Drawing on neuroscience, sensory health, trauma-sensitive practice, and lived experience, she shares practical insights for parents, educators, therapists, and support professionals supporting neurodivergent children, young people, and adults.

The conversation explores co-regulation, nervous system attunement, emotional capacity, resilience, sensory health, and the importance of authentic connection. Nikki also introduces her powerful Waves of Regulation resource, which supports adults to understand regulation through a more compassionate and reflective lens.

Topics discussed include:

• Understanding regulation beyond calmness
• The Waves of Regulation framework and practical application
• Co-regulation and the science of human connection
• Nervous system regulation and neuroception
• The Window of Capacity and emotional flexibility
• Match, Mirror, Move and authentic attunement
• Mirror neurons and nervous system tracking
• Stress stacking and cumulative overwhelm
• Repair, resilience, and relational safety
• Supporting neurodivergent children at home and in school
• Sensory health, wellbeing, and emotional regulation
• The role of parents, educators, therapists, and other helping professionals

Key Quotes:

"Regulation is about feeling safe and connected."

"Feelings go up, peak, and come down."

"Use your body to mirror and validate feelings."

Nikki Smit - Instagram

Nikki Smit is a neurodivergent occupational therapist, speaker, and educator with over fifteen years of clinical experience. Based in Singapore and working globally, her work sits at the intersection of nervous system regulation, sensory health, neurodiversity-affirming practice, and trauma-sensitive care.

She is interested in the capacity to stay present as experiences rise and fall, and in wellbeing as something dynamic and relational, grounded in dignity and curiosity rather than calm or compliance. Her work is shaped as much by her own lived experience as by relational neuroscience and sensory health, and she helps people make sense of why they respond the way they do, and what genuinely supports them.

Nikki works with children, adults, and families, as well as the practitioners who support them, and speaks, writes, and mentors internationally. Her mentoring work extends beyond occupational therapy and clinical practice, supporting professionals across a wide range of helping professions who are seeking deeper understanding of themselves, their work, and the relational aspects of supporting others.

To learn more about Nikki's work, explore her Waves of Regulation resource, follow her on Instagram @nikkismittherapy, and subscribe to her free newsletter.

Whether you are a parent, educator, therapist, helping professional, autistic adult, or someone interested in understanding regulation more deeply, this episode offers practical strategies and powerful insights that can transform how you think about wellbeing, connection, and support.

Keywords: Nikki Smit, Waves of Regulation, regulation, co-regulation, neurodivergent, neurodiversity, Autism, Autistic, sensory processing, sensory health, nervous system regulation, neuroception, trauma-sensitive practice, occupational therapy, emotional regulation, wellbeing, parenting neurodivergent children