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Education

The Autism Little Learners Podcast

by Tara Phillips
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Latest episodes

  • #197: Beyond "I Want": Helping AAC Users Say What Matters

    October 20, 2026 · 15 min

    Understanding the different communicative functions of AAC means looking beyond "I want" and helping autistic preschoolers communicate what really matters to them. Their family celebrates when Lily says NO. That's what Stefanie, Lily's…

  • You Might Enjoy: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

    October 20, 2026

    Introducing EZRA FRECH: "I Was Put on This Earth to Change the Way We See Disability" from On Purpose with Jay Shetty. Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty Ezra Frech shares the mindset, discipline, and determination that have…

  • #196: Stop Quizzing, Start Modeling: AAC Without the Pressure

    October 13, 2026 · 19 min

    What color is it? Where's the dog? Show me red. Tell me with your talker. If you support AAC users, you might be really good at quiz mode. I know I was. As an SLP, I was trained to elicit responses. I wanted repetitions. I wanted data. I…

  • #195 Stop Making Kids Prove They're "Ready" For AAC

    October 6, 2026 · 14 min

    As we continue AAC Awareness Month, I want to talk about an idea that kept far too many children from getting access to robust communication for far too long: The idea that a child has to be "ready" for AAC. Maybe they need to point…

  • #194 Nonspeaking AAC User & Autistic Woman Jordyn Zimmerman on Communication

    September 29, 2026 · 1 hr 5 min

    A quick heads up before you listen: Jordyn prepared some answers ahead of time and responded to others in real time, so you'll hear pauses between each question and Jordyn's answer. I challenge you to resist the urge to fast-forward…

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About the show

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