The Autism Little Learners Podcast

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Tara Phillips
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1.8K - 3.1K listeners Female/Male 4.8 rating 122 reviews 126 episodes USA
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How can I help my autistic student or child? Where can I find resources to teach my preschool-age students with autism? My child was given the autism diagnosis…now what? I just started teaching autistic preschool students…where do I start? Do you have any tips for potty training? How do I train my paras?

Whether you are a special educator, speech/language pathologist, general education teacher, paraprofessional, parent, grandparent, or someone who loves a young autistic child, this show is for you!

The Autism Little Learners podcast is relaxed, upbeat, informative, and full of actionable step-by-step tips to help you feel more confident and successful with your students or child.

Host, Tara Phillips, is a speech/language pathologist who can relate to both SLPs and special education teachers because she has run her own communication-based classroom for over 2 decades. She is the creator of the Autism Little Learners Membership and the Visual Schedules Made Easy online course.

Tara addresses all kinds of topics including: autism and visuals, tips for teaching communication skills, self-regulation as a foundation for learning, creating predictable routines, toilet training, challenging behaviors, fostering independence, and building positive relationships and connections with autistic children.

Along with sharing her tips and most successful strategies for students on the autism spectrum, she will invite guest speakers to get different perspectives.

Be sure to tune in and subscribe to The Autism Little Learners Podcast. You can also find Tara on: FB- https://www.facebook.com/autismlittlelearners/ IG-http://www.instagram.com/autismlittlelearners Website- www.autismlittlelearners.com

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Recent Hosts, Guests & Topics

Here's a quick summary of the last 5 episodes on The Autism Little Learners Podcast.

Hosts

Previous Guests

Dayna Harvey is a certified swim instructor who specializes in teaching autistic children.
Andy Rozak, JD, MPA, EMT-Paramedic, is the Founder and CEO of the Institute for Childhood Preparedness, with over 20 years of experience in public health, emergency management, and health policy.
Megan Griffith (she/her) is an auDHD life coach, and she's autistic & ADHD (auDHD) herself. She loves helping adults learn more about their brains and better understand & meet their needs, especially around executive dysfunction, emotional dysregulation, and internalized shame. When she's not working, she can usually be found dying her hair or writing her novel.
Jordan Garratt is a Specialist Education Teacher in the UK with over 15 years of experience working with minimally speaking autistic and PMLD pupils aged 3-11. She is the creator of Sensory Classroom and has a passion for teaching through sensory-based practices. Jordan specializes in supporting autistic students with high support needs, emphasizing sensory regulation, trust-building, and creating engaging, safe environments to foster learning and connection.
Dr. Hayley Crain is a clinical psychologist, adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and mom of two. She blends personal lived experience with clinical expertise to support neurodivergent kids and their families through inclusive, practical strategies. Dr. Crain holds a doctorate from The Chicago School and a masters from Columbia University. She's worked with top institutions across the U.S., including the CDC's SEED study, the May Institute, Children's Hospital Colorado, and the Waisman Center. Now back in her hometown, she runs Haven Psychology, offering neuroaffirming therapy, coaching, and assessments always with empathy, real-life tools, and a touch of humor, informed by her own experiences with ADHD, dyslexia, and anxiety.

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Episodes

Here's the recent few episodes on The Autism Little Learners Podcast.

0:00 43:26

#126 - Water Safety: Autism Drowning Risks & How to Prevent Tragedy Part 2 with Dayna Harvey & Andy Roszak

Welcome back to the Autism Little Learners Podcast!

If you haven’t listened to Part 1 of this conversation on autism and water safety yet, be sure to go check that out first—it’s episode #125. In that episode, I sat down with Dayna Harvey, a certified swim instructor who specializes in working with autistic children, and Andy Roszak, an emergency preparedness expert with experience at FEMA and the CDC. Together, we shared eye-opening statistics and essential first steps families can take to begin protecting their children around water.

In this episode—Part 2—we’re diving even deeper. You’ll hear more from Dayna and Andy about why swim lessons alone aren’t enough, how to use visual supports to reinforce water safety, and the critical role of community awareness in preventing drowning.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, teacher, or therapist, this conversation is full of actionable strategies and resources to help keep autistic children safe. Let’s get started.

Bio

Andy Roszak, JD, MPA, EMT-Paramedic is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Institute for Childhood Preparedness, where he leads efforts to strengthen emergency planning, disaster recovery, and resilience across early childhood and community-based settings. With more than 20 years of experience in public health, emergency management, and health policy, Andrew has worked at the local, state, federal, and nonprofit levels-supporting initiatives that help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises.

Andy is a frequent contributor and subject matter expert for Sesame Street in Communities, where he supports efforts around preparedness, disaster response, and resilience for families and caregivers. A former firefighter, paramedic, and hazardous materials technician, he has also served as a Health Policy Fellow in the U.S. Senate, a senior advisor at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and as a Senior Preparedness Advisor supporting Super Bowl 46 and the Indianapolis 500.

Andy is an award-winning author of the Preparing for the Unexpected book series, and his work has been recognized by organizations including the Red Cross, the City of El Paso, and Sesame Street, where he was named a Sesame Street Hero. His focus is on practical, real-world strategies to help individuals, organizations, and communities be better prepared for whatever challenges may come. Andy is the proud father of two daughters, aged 1 and 4.

Dayna Harvey is a Water Safety and Drowning prevention educator as well as a Swim Lesson Teacher, who specializes in working with children with autism and their parents. She has been teaching swim lessons for the past 35 years and is certified through the Red Cross as well as a program called AutismSwim.

Dayna is on a MISSION to educate and empower parents with information, strategies and hands on tools to help them keep their children safer in and around water because we MUST eradicate childhood drowning. The autism community saw more drownings in 2024 than in any year prior and that has intensified Dayna's commitment to reach more parents with her message and her methods.

Dayna and the Waiting Whale kids, who she created to help engage both parents and children in the education process, have developed the "Where there is water, I will WAIT!" program and The Waiting Whales - Water Safety Kit

Water Safety With Miss Dayna Links:

www.WaterSafetyWithMissDayna.com

www.Facebook.com/WaterSafetyWithMissDayna

www.Instagram.com/WaterSafetyWithMissDayna

Miss Dayna’s Water Safety Kit:

https://watersafetywithmissdayna.com/water-safety-kit

Institute For Childhood Preparedness Links:

https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/

Free Safety-Related Social Stories:

https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/printables

Takeaways

  • Water safety is crucial for all children, especially autistic children.

  • Visual cues and predictable routines enhance learning for children.

  • Creating a waiting area can significantly reduce drowning risks.

  • Parents must be fully attentive when children are around water.

  • Consistency in teaching water safety is key to success.

  • Using a water safety kit can help establish safe practices.

  • Children can learn to wait before entering water environments.

  • Swim lessons should focus on both water safety and swimming skills.

  • Parents should evaluate their home environment for water hazards.

  • Empowering parents with knowledge is essential for preventing drownings.

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

 

0:00 45:09

#125 - Water Safety: Autism Drowning Risks & How to Prevent Tragedy Part 1 with Dayna Harvey & Andy Roszak

Hosts
Tara Phillips
Guests
Dayna Harvey Andy Rozak
Keywords
autism water safety drowning risks autistic children preventive strategies risk assessment community awareness

Welcome back to the Autism Little Learners Podcast.

Today, I’m joined by two incredible guests—Dayna Harvey, a certified swim instructor who specializes in teaching autistic children, and Andy Roszak, an emergency preparedness expert who has worked with FEMA and the CDC. Together, we’re diving into a topic that’s incredibly important—and honestly, one that doesn’t get talked about enough: water safety for autistic children.

As a speech-language pathologist and someone who’s worked closely with autistic children for over two decades, I’ve seen just how real the risks are. Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death for autistic kids, and it’s something we have to bring more awareness to.

In this episode, we’re not just sharing facts and statistics—we’re getting personal and practical. Dayna and Andy offer eye-opening insight and simple, proactive strategies that parents, caregivers, and educators can use right away. We’ll talk about risk assessments, layers of protection, communication tools, and the role of community awareness in preventing tragedies.

My goal with this conversation is to empower you with actionable steps so you can feel more confident and prepared when it comes to water safety. Let’s work together to protect and support our little learners—not just in the classroom, but in every part of their lives.

Bio

Andy Roszak, JD, MPA, EMT-Paramedic is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Institute for Childhood Preparedness, where he leads efforts to strengthen emergency planning, disaster recovery, and resilience across early childhood and community-based settings. With more than 20 years of experience in public health, emergency management, and health policy, Andrew has worked at the local, state, federal, and nonprofit levels-supporting initiatives that help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises.

Andy is a frequent contributor and subject matter expert for Sesame Street in Communities, where he supports efforts around preparedness, disaster response, and resilience for families and caregivers. A former firefighter, paramedic, and hazardous materials technician, he has also served as a Health Policy Fellow in the U.S. Senate, a senior advisor at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and as a Senior Preparedness Advisor supporting Super Bowl 46 and the Indianapolis 500.

Andy is an award-winning author of the Preparing for the Unexpected book series, and his work has been recognized by organizations including the Red Cross, the City of El Paso, and Sesame Street, where he was named a Sesame Street Hero. His focus is on practical, real-world strategies to help individuals, organizations, and communities be better prepared for whatever challenges may come. Andy is the proud father of two daughters, aged 1 and 4.

Dayna Harvey is a Water Safety and Drowning prevention educator as well as a Swim Lesson Teacher, who specializes in working with children with autism and their parents. She has been teaching swim lessons for the past 35 years and is certified through the Red Cross as well as a program called AutismSwim.

Dayna is on a MISSION to educate and empower parents with information, strategies and hands on tools to help them keep their children safer in and around water because we MUST eradicate childhood drowning. The autism community saw more drownings in 2024 than in any year prior and that has intensified Dayna's commitment to reach more parents with her message and her methods.

Dayna and the Waiting Whale kids, who she created to help engage both parents and children in the education process, have developed the "Where there is water, I will WAIT!" program and The Waiting Whales - Water Safety Kit

Water Safety With Miss Dayna Links:

www.WaterSafetyWithMissDayna.com

www.Facebook.com/WaterSafetyWithMissDayna

www.Instagram.com/WaterSafetyWithMissDayna

Miss Dayna’s Water Safety Kit:

https://watersafetywithmissdayna.com/water-safety-kit

Institute For Childhood Preparedness Links:

https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/

Free Safety-Related Social Stories:

https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/printables

Takeaways

  • Drowning is the leading cause of death for autistic children.

  • Autistic children are 160 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers.

  • 50% of autistic children have a tendency to wander or elope.

  • Drowning is not a child problem; it is an adult problem.

  • Parents need to be proactive in water safety education.

  • Water safety education is different from swimming lessons.

  • Visual supports and predictable routines are essential for teaching water safety.

  • Community involvement is crucial in preventing drowning incidents.

  • Layers of protection are needed with it comes to water safety.

  • Teaching children to wait and understand boundaries around water is vital.

  • Fear should not prevent families from enjoying water activities; education is key.

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

 

0:00 33:39

#124 - Understanding AudHD & Late Diagnosis: Megan Griffith’s Story

Hosts
Tara Phillips
Guests
Megan Griffiths
Keywords
autism ADHD neurodivergence sensory sensitivities masking late diagnosis autism spectrum executive dysfunction emotional dysregulation neurodivergent play

Hey everyone, welcome back to the Autism Little Learners Podcast! Today’s episode is such a special one. I’m joined by Megan Griffith, an autistic and ADHD life coach who shares powerful insights from her own lived experience.

We talk about what it’s like to be diagnosed later in life, sensory sensitivities, masking, and the importance of honoring neurodivergent play. Megan’s stories and metaphors bring so much clarity and compassion to topics many of us are still learning about.

She also shares a peek at her upcoming book Welcome to AudHD and a free resource for parents and educators. You’re going to love this conversation!

Bio

Megan Griffith (she/her) is an auDHD life coach, and she's autistic & ADHD (auDHD) herself. She loves helping adults learn more about their brains and better understand & meet their needs, especially around executive dysfunction, emotional dysregulation, and internalized shame. When she's not working, you can usually find her dying her hair, or writing her novel.

Links 

Megan’s New Book (coming out in the fall of 2025): https://www.theneurocuriosityclub.com/book-waitlist

11 Types of Neurodivergence: 

https://www.theneurocuriosityclub.com/types-of-nd

The Nuerocuriosity Club - You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNeurocuriosityClub

Website: https://www.theneurocuriosityclub.com/

Takeaways

  • Megan identifies as AuDHD, a combination of autism and ADHD.

  • Late diagnoses of autism and ADHD are becoming more common among adults.

  • Sensory sensitivities can significantly impact daily life and social interactions.

  • Masking is a complex behavior that can lead to emotional distress.

  • Children need safe spaces to express themselves without judgment.

  • Play should be enjoyable and not forced into typical norms.

  • Understanding sensory needs is crucial for supporting neurodivergent individuals.

  • Adults should trust and validate the experiences of neurodivergent children.

  • Creating supportive environments can help children thrive.

  • Megan's upcoming book aims to guide neurodivergent adults towards thriving.

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

 

0:00 54:17

#123 - Group Time For Young Autistic Students With High Support Needs With Jordan Garratt

Hosts
Tara Phillips
Guests
Jordan Garratt
Keywords
autistic students high support needs group time sensory needs trust building engagement visual supports sensory regulation special education communication strategies

In this episode, I sit down with Jordan Garrett, a special education teacher from the UK and the creator behind Sensory Classroom. We talk about what it really takes to support autistic students with high support needs—especially during group time. Jordan shares how success isn't about getting everyone to sit and comply, but about building trust, meeting sensory needs, and creating a safe, engaging space where students can come and go as they’re ready. From empowering teaching assistants to embracing the messy, beautiful moments of connection, this conversation is full of encouragement for anyone supporting young autistic learners.

Bio

Jordan is a Specialist Education Teacher in the UK. She works with minimally speaking autistic and PMLD pupils aged 3-11. She has been teaching SEND for over 15 years and has a passion for teaching through sensory-based practices.

Links

Website: https://www.sensoryclassroom.org/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/sensoryclass

FB: https://www.facebook.com/share/12GJEC6CtKK/?mibextid=wwXIfr

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@sensoryclassroom?si=8m3kfc5KrsElJB3n

TIkTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sensoryclass?_t=ZN-8ufHEg4949W&_r=1

Podcast: https://sensoryclassroom.org/pages/podcast

Takeaways

  • Micro-trainings are effective for paraprofessionals and teaching assistants

  • Sensory regulation is crucial for effective communication and learning.

  • Success in special education is not about compliance but about connection and engagement.

  • Lessons should be flexible and responsive to students' needs.

  • Modeling behaviors and strategies is essential for teaching assistants.

  • Creating a safe and engaging environment fosters better learning outcomes.

  • Intuitive teaching can lead to more meaningful connections with students.

  • Patience is key and results may take time.

  • Building relationships with students is fundamental to their success. 

  • Creating a safe space fosters trust and engagement.

  • Engagement can be measured through moments of connection.

  • Songs and music can enhance predictability and comfort in learning.

  • Predictability helps reduce anxiety in new environments.

  • Group sessions should be short and engaging to maintain interest.

  • Every child is unique, requiring tailored approaches to 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

0:00 1:02:12

#122 - Power Struggles and the Pressure to Follow Through With Dr. Hayley Crain

Hosts
Tara Phillips
Guests
Dr. Hayley Crain
Keywords
power struggles supporting autistic learners ADHD visual supports predictable routines anxiety reduction emotional fatigue flexibility connection engagement neurodivergent children communication executive functioning skills

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Hayley Crane about supporting autistic and ADHD learners in ways that are truly affirming and compassionate. We dive into how visual supports and predictable routines can reduce anxiety, ease transitions, and help kids feel more confident and secure throughout their day.

We also explore what to do when power struggles pop up, how to better understand the emotional fatigue that can follow a long day of navigating demands, and the importance of flexibility and connection in our interactions. Hayley and I talk about why it’s helpful to reduce verbal demands—like asking fewer questions and making more observations—and how honoring each child’s deep interests can boost engagement and build trust.

This conversation is packed with real-world strategies for educators and parents, along with gentle reminders to care for yourself as you care for your students or children. It’s all about creating supportive, responsive environments where autistic kids can thrive.

Bio:  Dr. Hayley Crain is a clinical psychologist, adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and mom of two. She blends personal lived experience with clinical expertise to support neurodivergent kids and their families through inclusive, practical strategies.

Dr. Crain holds a doctorate from The Chicago School and a master’s from Columbia University. She’s worked with top institutions across the U.S., including the CDC’s SEED study, the May Institute, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and the Waisman Center. Now back in her hometown, she runs Haven Psychology, offering neuroaffirming therapy, coaching, and assessments—always with empathy, real-life tools, and a touch of humor, informed by her own experiences with ADHD, dyslexia, and anxiety.

Links: 

Dr. Hayley Crain’s website:  https://www.drhayleycrain.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/drhayleycrain/

Takeaways

  • Power struggles can be minimized by picking battles wisely.

  • Flexibility is crucial in supporting neurodivergent children.

  • Understanding behavior as communication is key to effective support.

  • Using interests can enhance engagement and learning.

  • Transitions can be challenging for neurodivergent children.

  • Visual supports can aid in understanding routines and transitions.

  • Acknowledging a child's protest is important for their communication.

  • Creating a supportive environment can reduce anxiety during transitions.

  • Visual supports can be crucial for helping children transition smoothly.

  • Predictable routines can create a sense of security for kids.

  • An All Done Bucket is a valuable tool for ending activities.

  • Repetition and visual cues are essential for memory retention in children.

  • After school restraint collapse is a common experience for neurodivergent children.

  • Teaching executive functioning skills can start at a young age.

  • Connecting with children can be done without asking questions.

  • Less talking can lead to better engagement with children. 

 

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

Ratings

Global:
4.8 rating 122 reviews

USA

4.8 ratings 106 reviews

Canada

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UK

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Ireland

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Australia

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