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

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

In this episode, I sit down with Polina Shkadron, a speech-language pathologist who specializes in autism, ADHD, and ARFID. We dive into her journey into feeding therapy and explore what’s really going on beneath the surface when kids struggle with eating. Polina shares how trust, autonomy, and regulation play a huge role in building positive food experiences.

We talk about the impact of fear and anxiety on eating, the importance of honoring a child’s identity and sensory needs, and how small, playful routines can make a big difference. If you’ve ever wondered how to support a child beyond the “just take a bite” approach, this conversation is for you.

Bio

Today on the podcast, I’m thrilled to be joined by Polina Shkadron. Polina is a trauma-certified speech-language pathologist and an expert in communication and feeding, with a specialization in autism, ADHD, and ARFID. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in compassion and brain-based research, which gives her a unique and powerful perspective on language, learning, and behavior.

With over 15 years of experience supporting neurodivergent children, Polina helps families understand the why behind their struggles and gently guides them toward more connected, trusting relationships. She brings play into her sessions not just as an activity, but as a meaningful tool for emotional regulation, communication, and healing. I can’t wait for you to hear her insights in this conversation.

Takeaways

• Polina Shkadron specializes in autism, ADHD, and ARFID.

• ARFID is more than picky eating.

• Trust and autonomy are crucial in helping children with feeding differences.

• Children may choose hunger over discomfort from food.

• Language around food can impact children's willingness to try new things.

• Therapy should focus on building trust and understanding individual needs.

• Self-regulation plays a significant role in eating behaviors.

• Parents' anxieties can affect children's eating experiences.

• Recognizing readiness is key to successful feeding interventions.

• Fear impacts our digestive system and hunger.

• Shame should be removed from eating habits.

• Neutral reactions from parents can foster a positive environment.

• Mealtime should not solely focus on food challenges.

• Introducing new foods can be done through play.

• Building trust is essential in food experiences.

• The experience of food preparation can enhance curiosity.

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