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The Autism Little Learners PodcastAuthor: Tara Phillips
You want to help your autistic students or child thrive but it can feel overwhelming trying to figure out where to start. Whether you're wondering how to build connection, teach communication, navigate sensory needs, or support your paras you're in the right place. Welcome to The Autism Little Learners Podcast, where compassion meets practical strategy. Host Tara Phillips, a speech-language pathologist with over two decades of experience, brings you neurodiversity-affirming insights, step-by-step tips, and real-world examples that help you feel confident, prepared, and inspired to support young autistic children. This show is relaxed, upbeat, and packed with actionable ideas you can use right away whether you're a special educator, SLP, general education teacher, paraprofessional, parent, grandparent, or anyone who loves a young autistic child. Each episode explores topics like: Teaching communication and AAC in natural, joyful ways Using visual supports and routines to create predictability Fostering co-regulation and independence Understanding sensory needs and reducing stress Supporting paraprofessionals with clarity and compassion Building strong, trusting relationships with autistic kids Tara's approach is rooted in connection over compliance helping you see each child's strengths, honor their communication style, and create an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed. Subscribe to The Autism Little Learners Podcast and join the movement toward more compassionate, affirming early childhood education. Connect with Tara: Facebook: facebook.com/autismlittlelearners Instagram: instagram.com/autismlittlelearners Website: autismlittlelearners.com Language: en Genres: Education, Kids & Family, Parenting Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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#156: Visual Schedules: Why They Work and How They Help Autistic Children
Episode 156
Tuesday, 6 January, 2026
Today we're talking about one of my favorite tools for supporting autistic preschoolers — visual schedules. These simple supports can make transitions smoother, reduce anxiety, and help kids feel safe and confident as they move through their day. I'll share a quick story from the classroom and break down why visual schedules work so well, especially for our autistic little learners. Show notes: ● Why visual schedules are one of the most effective supports for autistic preschoolers ● A real classroom story about a child who struggled with transitions until a one-picture schedule changed everything ● How visual schedules create predictability and reduce anxiety ● Why spoken language disappears — and visuals don't ● The connection between regulation, safety, and understanding what's coming next ● How visual schedules increase independence without pressure ● Why challenging behaviors often decrease when routines become visible ● The different types of visual schedules used in early childhood ● Why starting with ONE picture is developmentally appropriate and often most effective ● Practical tips you can use tomorrow to make transitions smoother and more connected Links & Related Podcast Episodes ● Visual Schedule Pictures Resource ● Visual Schedule Information ● Visual Schedules Made Easy Course
