The Autism Helper Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Episode 351: When “What’s the Function?” Isn’t the Right Question Feb 02, 2026

Show notes

Behavior rarely has just one “why.” In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we break down multiply controlled behaviors - what they are, how they show up in classrooms, and why behavior plans often fall short when only one function is addressed. You’ll learn how to recognize when multiple variables are influencing behavior and walk away with practical ways to design more effective, compassionate supports for autistic students.

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Episode 350: What To Do When Students Rip Off Schedules? Jan 26, 2026

Show notes

Visual schedules are a powerful tool for decreasing problem behavior, but what should you do when students start ripping them? In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we break down why schedules are an essential strategy and why visual schedules are a must in structured classrooms and therapy settings. Schedule ripping isn’t a sign that schedules don’t work - it’s communication that something needs adjusting.

We walk through four practical strategies to address this behavior while keeping schedules in place. First, we discuss the importance of conducting a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) to understand the function behind the ripping. Next, we explore how establishing strong rapport can reduce power struggles and increase student buy-in. We also share how to fade in schedule use by starting with preferred activities, and finally, how small changes to the physical setup of a schedule can make ripping more effortful and less likely.

This episode focuses on strengthening - not removing - visual schedules so they continue to support independence, predictability, and positive behavior.

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Episode 349: Encore Episode: Deescalation Strategies that Work Jan 19, 2026

Show notes

When a child is in crisis mode, they are not ready to learn. In a meltdown situation, our goal as the adult is to keep the child safe and reflect on how to prevent this in the future. In this episode, we explore what to do in an episode of explosive behavior. We go through the 6 steps of de-escalation on how to safely move the child through the episode. Our role is to maintain safety and provide support without damaging rapport.

Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation

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Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/

Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlist

Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/

Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/

Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper

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Episode 348: Getting Curious not Furious with ADHD Parent Coach Allison Solomon Jan 12, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, we talk with ADHD parent coach Allison Solomon about shifting from reacting to children’s behavior to getting curious about what’s underneath it. Allison shares how “getting curious, not furious” helps parents see behavior as communication rather than disobedience, and how asking “What is my child struggling with?” can change everything. We explore why certain behaviors trigger parents, how those triggers can point to our own stress and expectations, and what becomes possible when we pause instead of react.

We also discuss the unrealistic pressure on parents to stay calm at all times and why giving yourself grace is essential. Allison explains why modeling repair after you lose your cool is one of the most powerful parenting tools, showing kids what to do when emotions run high. This conversation offers compassion, practical insight, and hope for parents navigating everyday challenges.

Allison Solomon is an ADHD parent coach who helps parents raise children with ADHD using practical, real-life strategies shaped by her own family’s experience.

Connect with Allison:

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/adhdinnercircleacademy

Instagram: @allisonleighsolomon

Episode Transcription.

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Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/

Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists

Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/

Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/

Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper

Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper.

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Episode 347: Skill Deficit vs. Capacity Limit with Kaelynn Partlow Dec 09, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, I’m joined by Kaelynn Partlow - autistic advocate, national speaker, and familiar face from the Netflix series Love on the Spectrum. Diagnosed with autism at age 10, Kaelynn has dedicated her career to meaningful inclusion through her work as an RBT with Project Hope and as the author of Life on the Bridge. Together, we unpack the critical difference between a skill deficit and a capacity limit, exploring why this distinction matters for educators, families, and autistic individuals themselves. Kaelynn shares common misconceptions, how misunderstandings can impact independence and employment, and practical ways to determine when to teach a skill versus when to provide an accommodation. This episode offers clear, compassionate guidance for supporting meaningful progress in a way that truly honors individual needs.

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Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/

Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists

Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/

Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/

Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper

Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper.

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Episode 346: Early Behavioral Indicators of Autism with Dr. Erin Michaud, SLP BCBA-D Nov 24, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, Sasha chats with Dr. Erin Michaud, a Speech-Language Pathologist and BCBA-D with over 20 years of experience supporting infants at high likelihood for autism. Dr. Michaud shares what she’s learning from the Early Markers of Autism Project, including the earliest behavioral indicators to look for and how to distinguish meaningful early signs from typical infant variability.

She also discusses how she supports families through her private practice, using NDBI (Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Intervention) strategies to help parents build social and communication skills through everyday routines. We talk about practical, parent-led actions that make a real difference, how to create natural opportunities for connection, and how to navigate the common question: “Should I wait and see, or seek early support?”

https://drerinmichaud.com/

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Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/

Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists

Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/

Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/

Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper

Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper.

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Episode 345: Responding to Spicy Social Media Comments Nov 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re turning up the heat! 🔥 I’m diving into four spicy social media comments and unpacking the tough conversations behind them. From the debate over the value of errorless learning, to the real-world challenges of handling aggression in the classroom, and the art of de-escalation strategies- nothing’s off-limits.

Join me as I respond candidly, clear up misconceptions, and share practical, compassionate approaches that actually work in the classroom. Whether you’re a teacher, therapist, or parent, this episode will leave you with strategies you can use and food for thought about how we discuss and support behavior in our learners.

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Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/

Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists

Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/

Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/

Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper

Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper.

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Episode 344: VBMAPP vs. ABLLS Nov 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we take a closer look at two widely used assessment tools in both clinical and educational settings: the VB-MAPP (Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program) and the ABLLS-R (Assessment of Basic Language and Learning Skills – Revised). Aimed at clinicians, special educators, and support staff, this discussion breaks down the core differences between the two tools - covering structure, developmental focus, skill domains, and practical use in programming. We explore which learners each tool best supports, how to use the data to inform IEPs and behavior plans, and why some teams choose to use both for a more comprehensive view of a child’s strengths and needs. Whether you're working in a classroom, a clinic, or across both environments, this episode offers clear, actionable insights to help you select and apply the right assessment tools for your students or clients.

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Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation

Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/

Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists

Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/

Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/

Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper

Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper.

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Episode 343: 5 Things That Won't Work to Reduce Problem Behavior Oct 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we're tackling a tough but important topic: the common strategies that just don't work when it comes to reducing problem behavior in the classroom or clinical setting. From relying on punishment alone to enforcing one-size-fits-all policies, we break down five approaches that may seem effective in the moment but often backfire in the long run. Whether you're a teacher, behavior specialist, or therapist, this episode will help you reflect on what might be getting in the way of real progress - and what to do instead. Tune in to learn why addressing root causes, teaching missing skills, and using proactive strategies are essential for lasting behavior change.

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Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation

Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/

Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists

Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/

Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/

Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper

Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper.

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Episode 342: Handling a Disconnect with Administrators Oct 20, 2025

Show notes

What do you do when you and your school or district administrators aren't on the same page - especially when it comes to student behavior, curriculum, or the resources you need to do your job well? In this episode, we talk about how to navigate those tricky disconnects with professionalism, empathy, and clarity. Whether you're a teacher, BCBA, or related service provider, we’ll explore practical strategies for advocating effectively, maintaining positive relationships, and staying focused on what matters most: student success. If you've ever felt unheard, unsupported, or stuck in the middle, this episode is for you.

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Learn more about the De-Escalation 101 course here: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/de-escalation

Interested in our Year-Long Curriculum Access Subscription? Learn more about it here: https://theautismhelper.com/tah-curriculum-access/

Join the waitlist for our Professional Development Membership: https://shop.theautismhelper.com/pages/membership-waitlists

Want more information about The Autism Helper Courses? Visit: https://theautismhelper.com/courses/

Looking for a specific product or resource? Find it in our new Autism Helper Store! https://shop.theautismhelper.com/

Or visit The Autism Helper store on TpT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/The-Autism-Helper

Get all updates from The Autism Helper Podcast by clicking subscribe above. Head over to theautismhelper.com for more info. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest @theautismhelper.

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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