Let Them Lead: The Child-Led Autism Podcast
Hosted by Nicole Casey, speech-language pathologist and founder of The Child-Led SLP, Let Them Lead is the go-to podcast for professionals and caregivers who want to support autistic kids with respect, trust, and connection. Each week, we explore child-led, neuroaffirming approaches to communication, play, and therapy—centered around the belief that autistic kids deserve communication partners who honor and support them holistically. Whether you're navigating gestalt language processing, AAC, sensory differences, or just want to break free from compliance-based systems, you're in the right place. You'll hear honest conversations, practical strategies, and plenty of real-life examples to help you unlearn old habits and confidently support the kids you love or work with. No behavior charts. No rigid protocols. Just curiosity, compassion, and the freedom to follow your autistic child's lead.
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33. The First 3 Communication Functions I Support With Autistic Students
12/30/2025
33. The First 3 Communication Functions I Support With Autistic Students
In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the challenges faced by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) when supporting autistic students, particularly the difficulty of starting communication support without knowing the child well. She emphasizes the importance of a structured approach to identify key communication functions, such as asking for help, protesting, and directing actions. Nicole advocates for a child-led approach that empowers students to communicate authentically and autonomously, moving beyond traditional methods that may hinder their development. The conversation highlights the significance of rubrics in goal setting and the need for a supportive environment that fosters trust and communication. Takeaways The system has flaws that impact how we support autistic students. It's challenging to write an IEP without knowing the child. A structured approach can simplify the process of supporting communication. Starting with requesting is common but not always the best approach. Protesting is a crucial skill for safety and autonomy. Communication should empower the child, not just be a performance. Directing actions helps children feel powerful in their communication. Child-led approaches foster authentic communication. Rubrics can help target a variety of communication skills. Building a communication ecosystem is essential for growth. Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Challenges of Supporting Autistic Students 05:18 The Importance of a Systematic Approach 20:07 Identifying Key Communication Functions 23:37 Rethinking Strategies for Asking for Help 28:17 Creating Supportive Environments for Communication 39:37 The Importance of Protesting and Rejecting 46:05 Empowering Children Through Directing Actions 48:28 The Role of Requesting in Communication 56:04 Building a Communication Ecosystem autism, communication, support, IEP, SLP, rubrics, child-led approach, education, special education, neurodiversity
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32. Helping the Helpers: What Teams Really Need to Support Autistic Kids Well
12/23/2025
32. Helping the Helpers: What Teams Really Need to Support Autistic Kids Well
In this episode, Nicole Casey emphasizes the critical importance of collaboration among professionals supporting autistic students. She discusses the need for empathy, trust, and understanding within teams, particularly focusing on the roles of paraprofessionals and support staff. Nicole shares practical strategies for building relationships, advocating for change, and fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes the well-being of both students and staff. The conversation highlights the systemic challenges faced by educators and the necessity of a team-centered approach to effectively support autistic students. Takeaways Collaboration is essential for supporting autistic students. Support staff need empathy and understanding from professionals. Building trust within teams enhances collaboration. Generosity and service are key values in education. Human connection is vital for effective teamwork. Practical strategies can improve support for colleagues. Advocating for systemic change benefits everyone in education. Self-care is important for professionals in high-stress environments. Paraprofessionals play a crucial role in student support. Creating a culture of trust leads to better outcomes for students. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Collaboration in Supporting Autistic Students 02:50 Understanding the Role of Support Staff 06:09 Building Trust and Empathy in Teams 08:40 The Impact of Systemic Issues on Support Staff 12:02 The Value of Generosity and Service 14:54 Creating a Supportive Environment for Team Members 17:45 The Need for Human Connection in Professional Relationships 20:44 Practical Strategies for Supporting Colleagues 23:37 Advocating for Team Morale and Culture 26:31 Balancing Self-Care with Team Support 29:51 The Role of Presence and Action in Team Dynamics 32:46 Understanding the Challenges Faced by Support Staff 35:37 The Importance of Listening and Empathy 38:22 Future Directions for Team Support and Collaboration autism, collaboration, support staff, education, empathy, trust, teamwork, communication, advocacy, self-care
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31. Eye contact, Quiet Hands, and Calm Body – The Trifecta of Harm
12/16/2025
31. Eye contact, Quiet Hands, and Calm Body – The Trifecta of Harm
In this conversation, Nicole Casey challenges traditional notions of attention and connection in learning, particularly for autistic students. She emphasizes the importance of accommodating diverse sensory needs and creating an engaging learning environment that allows students to feel regulated and at ease, thus enhancing their ability to learn and engage. Takeaways We need to rethink how we understand connection and attention. Attention doesn't mean sitting still; it can look different. Accommodating a child's sensory system is crucial for learning. Creating an engaging environment helps students feel regulated. Students are more likely to engage when they feel at ease. We should challenge traditional teaching methods that require stillness. Learning can be more effective when students are allowed to move. Understanding neurodiversity is key to effective teaching. Teachers should think outside the box for engagement strategies. A calm environment is essential for accessing learning. Chapters 00:00 Revisiting Eye Contact and Engagement 01:13 The Holy Trinity of Harm: Eye Contact, Calm Body, Quiet Hands 02:12 Empowering Autistic Students Through Understanding 02:14 Encouraging Growth and Change in Practices autism, learning, attention, connection, sensory system, education, engagement, teaching strategies, neurodiversity, classroom management
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30. Building Yes Spaces So Autistic Kids Can Truly Lead
12/09/2025
30. Building Yes Spaces So Autistic Kids Can Truly Lead
In this episode of Let Them Lead, Nicole Casey discusses the concept of "yes spaces" in therapy and educational settings, emphasizing their importance for both autistic students and educators. She explains how creating environments where children can explore safely without constant redirection fosters authentic communication and co-regulation. Nicole shares practical tips for setting up yes spaces, highlighting the balance between freedom and safety, and the benefits for both students and educators. Takeaways: Creating yes spaces allows children to explore safely. Yes spaces reduce the need for constant redirection. They foster authentic communication and co-regulation. Yes spaces benefit both students and educators. Balance between freedom and safety is crucial. Yes spaces are not about chaos but thoughtful design. Boundaries are built into the environment, not enforced. Yes spaces make therapy feel lighter and freer. They help educators focus on connection, not crisis management. Yes spaces support nervous system regulation for all. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to Yes Spaces 00:03:00 Benefits of Yes Spaces 00:06:00 Creating a Yes Space 00:09:00 Balancing Freedom and Safety 00:12:00 Practical Tips for Yes Spaces 00:15:00 Conclusion and Reflections yes spaces, child-led therapy, autism, co-regulation, educational environments
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29. It Wasn’t the Child: How a Broken System Led to My Concussion
12/02/2025
29. It Wasn’t the Child: How a Broken System Led to My Concussion
In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the challenges and emotional impact of working with autistic children, focusing on incidents where educators face physical injuries. She shares personal experiences, emphasizing the need for systemic change and proactive support to prevent such situations. Nicole advocates for understanding over blame and highlights the importance of co-regulation and emotional safety. Takeaways We need to talk about the hard things to move forward. Injuries at work are not the child's fault. Systemic issues contribute to workplace injuries. Co-regulation is key to preventing incidents. Blame should not be placed on children or staff. Proactive support systems are necessary. Understanding the nervous system is crucial. Reflective debriefs can lead to real change. Safety trainings should focus on prevention. Advocacy is essential for systemic change. autistic children, physical injuries, systemic change, co-regulation, emotional safety
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27. It's Not Chaos: How to Explain Child-Led Therapy to Skeptical Parents and Teams
11/18/2025
27. It's Not Chaos: How to Explain Child-Led Therapy to Skeptical Parents and Teams
In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses how to handle situations where one's approach in therapy is questioned or judged. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the root of such questions, often stemming from fear, and advocates for a collaborative and curiosity-driven response rather than defensiveness. The conversation also touches on setting boundaries with colleagues and the challenges of implementing child-led therapy, highlighting the need for clear communication and shared goals. Takeaways When feeling questioned, it's important to pause and reflect. Defensiveness can hinder effective communication and learning. Understanding the root of questions can lead to better responses. Finding common ground helps in collaborative discussions. Child-led therapy is evidence-based and not chaotic. Protest from children can be a sign of autonomy, not failure. Setting boundaries with colleagues is crucial for maintaining focus. Providing clear information about therapy can alleviate concerns. It's essential to connect and collaborate rather than convince. Child-led therapy requires flexibility and self-awareness. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Questions and Judgments 10:09 Defensive Responses and Their Impact 19:40 Finding Common Ground in Therapy 24:18 Setting Boundaries with Colleagues 31:22 The Challenges of Child-Led Therapy therapy, child-led, communication, defensiveness, collaboration, behaviorism, GLP, education, parenting, professional boundaries
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26. The Ripple Effect of Better Goals: How to Write What Truly Reflects Progress (+ Join the Free Workshop)
11/11/2025
26. The Ripple Effect of Better Goals: How to Write What Truly Reflects Progress (+ Join the Free Workshop)
In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the challenges of writing meaningful goals in therapy, particularly for autistic students. She emphasizes the importance of aligning goals with therapeutic approaches and using dynamic assessments and rubric-based documentation to capture authentic progress. Nicole provides strategies for confidently defending these methods in conversations with administrators and highlights the need for a shift in how progress is measured to better support students' communication development. Takeaways Conversations about student goals can be challenging. Goals often don't reflect actual progress seen in therapy. It's important to align goals with therapeutic approaches. Dynamic assessment can provide more meaningful data. Rubric-based goals offer a clearer picture of progress. Measurable goals should reflect real-life communication needs. Testing and intervention should not be conflated. Collaboration among team members enhances data collection. Rubrics can help prevent vague or overloaded goals. Confidence in goal writing can improve outcomes for students. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Goal Conversations in Therapy 03:45 The Importance of Meaningful Goals 09:32 Dynamic Assessment and Rubric-Based Goals 14:42 Defending Your Goal Writing Approach 29:11 The Future of Goal Writing in Therapy goal writing, therapy, rubric-based goals, dynamic assessment, meaningful progress, autism, communication, IEP goals, data collection, child-led approach
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25. Can They Just Be Kids? The Datafication of Autistic Childhood
11/04/2025
25. Can They Just Be Kids? The Datafication of Autistic Childhood
Join the FREE Rubric Reset Workshop, live on November 12: Grab your free ticket here >> In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the unique challenges faced by autistic children in relation to their childhood experiences. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the balance between therapy and allowing children to simply be kids. The conversation highlights the need for unstructured time, the impact of excessive therapy, and the significance of quality over quantity in therapeutic approaches. Nicole encourages parents and professionals to prioritize the well-being and happiness of autistic children, advocating for a more holistic view of childhood that includes joy and relaxation alongside skill development. Takeaways: Autistic children experience childhood differently than neurotypical children. Progress in therapy is not always linear and can fluctuate based on a child's emotional state. Parents should sometimes reframe their perspective on their child's behavior to see it as part of being human. Excessive therapy can lead to burnout and detract from a child's ability to simply enjoy childhood. Quality of therapy is more important than the quantity of hours spent in therapy. Children need unstructured time to play and explore without therapeutic demands. Rest and downtime are essential for both children and families. Parents should trust their instincts about what is best for their child. Therapists should be mindful of the impact of their recommendations on a child's childhood. Childhood should be a time for joy, exploration, and connection, not just therapy. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Childhood for Autistic Kids 07:18 The Impact of Therapy on Childhood 14:30 Quality Over Quantity in Therapy 22:30 Balancing Structure and Freedom 30:35 The Importance of Rest and Unstructured Time autism, childhood, therapy, gestalt language processing, parenting, neurodiversity, child development, mental health, unstructured play, balance
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24. The Real Reason Goal Writing Sucks (and What to Do About It)
10/28/2025
24. The Real Reason Goal Writing Sucks (and What to Do About It)
Join the FREE Rubric Reset Workshop, live on November 12: Grab your free ticket here >> In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the challenges of writing effective goals for autistic students, emphasizing the limitations of traditional goal writing systems. She introduces rubrics as a solution to create individualized, meaningful, and measurable goals that reflect the child's needs. The conversation highlights the importance of moving away from compliance-based goals and focusing on authentic progress. Nicole also invites listeners to join her free Rubric Reset Workshop, where they can learn to implement this new approach in their practice. Takeaways: Goal writing can feel overwhelming and frustrating. It's common to feel like goal writing is a personal struggle. Traditional goal writing often doesn't reflect the child's needs. The education system's limitations impact goal writing. Compliance-based goals can hinder authentic progress. Rubrics can streamline the goal writing process. Individualization is key to effective goal setting. Progress should be measured in a meaningful way. Rubrics allow for capturing nuanced communication skills. Advocacy is essential for changing the goal writing system. Chapters 00:00 The Struggles of Goal Writing 02:47 Understanding the System's Flaws 06:05 The Compliance Trap in Goal Writing 08:46 Introducing Rubrics as a Solution 12:03 The Importance of Individualization 14:59 Measuring Progress Beyond Compliance 17:50 The Rubric Framework Explained 21:03 Capturing Authentic Progress 23:52 Implementing Rubrics in Practice 26:47 Preparing for the Rubric Reset Workshop goal writing, autistic students, rubrics, compliance, individualized education, therapy, progress measurement, child-led therapy, IEP, education system
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23. The Worst Goals for Autistic Students (As Told By Autistic Adults)
10/21/2025
23. The Worst Goals for Autistic Students (As Told By Autistic Adults)
In this conversation, Nicole Casey explores the discomfort surrounding the topic of therapy goals for autistic children, emphasizing the importance of listening to autistic voices. She discusses the harmful nature of compliance-based goals, such as suppressing stimming and forcing eye contact, and advocates for a shift towards neuroaffirming, child-led therapy that prioritizes the child's needs and experiences. The conversation highlights the need for collaboration among therapy teams and the importance of empowering autistic individuals to advocate for themselves. Takeaways: Discomfort can be a sign of growth and learning for us as professionals. Listening to autistic voices is crucial in therapy. Many traditional therapy goals can be harmful. Suppressing stimming can hinder a child's regulation. Eye contact is not necessary for effective communication. Goals should focus on the child's needs, not compliance. Neurotypical expectations can be limiting for autistic individuals. Empowering children to self-advocate is essential. Therapy should honor the child's authentic self. Shifting from compliance to connection can change lives.
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22. What to do When an Autistic Child is Not Engaging With Us
10/14/2025
22. What to do When an Autistic Child is Not Engaging With Us
In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the challenges therapists face when children disengage during sessions. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the reasons behind disengagement, advocating for a child-led approach, and recognizing signs of fatigue or burnout. Nicole shares strategies for managing disengagement, building trust with families, and reframing engagement. She encourages therapists to shift their mindset, prioritize connection, and be present with the child, even in quieter sessions. The conversation concludes with practical tips for therapists to enhance their practice and foster meaningful connections with their clients. Disengagement is a common experience in therapy sessions. It's important to understand the reasons behind a child's disengagement. Child-led therapy focuses on following the child's lead. Recognizing signs of fatigue can help tailor sessions effectively. Effective communication with families is crucial for understanding the child's needs. Therapists should prioritize building trust and connection with their clients. Not every session will be filled with engagement; that's okay. Therapists should reframe their understanding of engagement and disengagement. Mindset shifts can enhance a therapist's effectiveness in sessions. Practicing patience and presence can lead to meaningful connections.
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21. Toxic Positivity Protects Systems, Not Us!
10/07/2025
21. Toxic Positivity Protects Systems, Not Us!
In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the concept of toxic positivity, particularly in the context of workplace environments, especially in special education. She shares personal experiences and examples of how toxic positivity manifests in professional settings, often leading to a culture that dismisses genuine concerns and prioritizes a facade of happiness over accountability and safety. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity, open communication, and strategies to address toxic positivity to create healthier work environments. Toxic positivity dismisses genuine feelings and experiences. It often protects the system rather than individuals. Authenticity is crucial in addressing workplace issues. Leadership plays a significant role in perpetuating toxic positivity. Ignoring safety concerns can have serious consequences. Employees need to voice their concerns without fear of dismissal. Creating a culture of honesty can improve work environments. Strategies exist to combat toxic positivity effectively. It's important to document concerns and seek accountability. Small actions can lead to significant changes in workplace culture. To learn more, visit or follow on instagram!
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20. Trauma-Informed Care and Child-Led Therapy Are Interconnected
09/30/2025
20. Trauma-Informed Care and Child-Led Therapy Are Interconnected
To learn more, follow: and In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the importance of trauma-informed care in supporting autistic students. She emphasizes that trauma is widespread and often hidden, and that educators must approach their work with a mindset that prioritizes safety, trust, and connection. The discussion covers the four Rs of trauma-informed care, misconceptions about what it entails, the distinction between rules and boundaries, and practical strategies for implementing trauma-informed practices in educational settings. Casey shares real-life examples to illustrate the application of these principles, ultimately highlighting the interconnectedness of child-led and trauma-informed approaches in creating supportive environments for autistic children. Trauma-informed care is essential for supporting autistic students. Understanding trauma is crucial for effective education. Child-led therapy must be trauma-informed to be effective. Misconceptions about trauma-informed care can hinder progress. Rules in therapy should be flexible and reconsidered. Boundaries are about personal safety and respect. Language choices can impact students with trauma. Toxic positivity can be harmful in educational settings. Transparency with students builds trust and safety. Creating safe spaces is vital for student well-being.
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19. Best Goals for Autistic Kids, According to Autistic Adults
09/23/2025
19. Best Goals for Autistic Kids, According to Autistic Adults
In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the importance of centering autistic voices in therapy goals for autistic children. She highlights a 2024 study that reveals the most accepted therapy goals as identified by autistic adults, emphasizing the need for a neuroaffirming approach that prioritizes safety, autonomy, and communication. The conversation covers five key areas of focus: decreasing self-injurious behavior, honoring refusal, supporting self-help skills, emphasizing multimodal communication, and addressing aggression as a stress response. Casey also calls for the abandonment of harmful practices in therapy and encourages listeners to advocate for neuroaffirming practices. Autistic voices should guide therapy goals. The 2024 study provides valuable insights for therapy. Centering lived experiences is crucial in therapy. Therapy goals should prioritize safety and autonomy. Self-injurious behavior requires understanding and support. Teaching refusal is a protective communication skill. Self-help skills should align with the child's interests. Multimodal communication must be honored, not just allowed. Aggression is often a stress response, not defiance. Harmful practices in therapy must be identified and eliminated. Learn more at childled.org!
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18. Multimodal Communication for Autistic Kids is NOT a Hierarchy
09/16/2025
18. Multimodal Communication for Autistic Kids is NOT a Hierarchy
Download the free "Multimodal Communication is NOT a Hierarchy" Visual ! In this conversation, Nicole Casey explores the concept of multimodal communication, particularly in the context of supporting autistic children. She emphasizes that communication is not limited to speech but includes various modalities such as gestures, facial expressions, and actions. Nicole critiques the traditional hierarchy that places speech at the top, advocating for a more inclusive view that recognizes all forms of communication as valid. Through personal anecdotes, she reflects on the importance of how caregivers and professionals respond to different communication methods, urging a shift in mindset to foster a supportive environment for autistic individuals. Takeaways: Communication is multimodal and includes various forms. All modalities of communication are valid and should be respected. Speech should not be viewed as the ultimate goal of communication. Celebrating speech can unintentionally diminish other forms of communication. Reactions to communication can impact a child's willingness to engage. Creating a safe environment encourages authentic communication. We need to model and acknowledge all forms of communication. Redefining success in communication is essential for growth. Children can sense pressure from adults regarding communication expectations. Reflecting on our responses can lead to more inclusive practices. To learn more about a child-led, neuroaffirming approach, visit and follow @thechildledslp on instagram!
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[UPDATE] JOIN ME AT THE CHILD-LED AUTISM SUMMIT!!
07/30/2025
[UPDATE] JOIN ME AT THE CHILD-LED AUTISM SUMMIT!!
To grab your free ticket, visit: I hope to see you all there!
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17. Ditching "Withholding Objects" from Autistic Kids for Good
07/15/2025
17. Ditching "Withholding Objects" from Autistic Kids for Good
Save your spot for The Child-Led Autism Summit ! In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the problematic strategy of withholding objects to encourage communication in autistic children. She emphasizes the emotional and relational damage this approach can cause, advocating for a more child-led, affirming method that fosters genuine communication and connection. Through personal anecdotes and practical examples, she highlights the importance of observing children's natural communication styles and creating a supportive environment that empowers them to express themselves freely. Takeaways Withholding objects is a deeply ingrained but harmful strategy. Building relationships with students is crucial for progress. Withholding creates power imbalances and frustration. Communication should be empowering, not transactional. Natural opportunities for communication should be prioritized. Observation is key to understanding a child's communication style. Joining in a child's play fosters trust and connection. Communication thrives in a safe and supportive environment. We need to move beyond teaching requests to broader communication skills. Empowering children to communicate is essential for their autonomy. keywords: autism, communication, withholding objects, child-led strategies, relationship building, speech therapy, neurodiversity, education, trust, empowerment
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16. Creating a Safe and Sensory-Friendly Environment for Autistic Students
07/08/2025
16. Creating a Safe and Sensory-Friendly Environment for Autistic Students
Summary: In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the critical importance of creating safe and sensory-friendly environments for autistic students. She emphasizes that the physical setup of therapy and classroom spaces can significantly impact children's engagement and comfort. Nicole shares practical strategies for enhancing sensory safety, including adjusting lighting, reducing visual clutter, and providing sensory tools. She also highlights the need for predictable routines while allowing for flexibility to accommodate individual needs. Overall, the conversation focuses on fostering an environment where autistic children feel safe, supported, and able to thrive. In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the importance of emotional consistency and predictability in creating safe environments for children. She emphasizes the need for calming spaces, respect for personal space, and reducing overwhelming demands in educational settings. Casey also highlights the significance of attuning to students' cues, incorporating movement into learning, fostering emotional safety, and using children's interests to enhance engagement. The discussion aims to provide practical strategies for caregivers and educators to support children's emotional and developmental needs. Takeaways: The environment plays a crucial role in supporting autistic students. Creating a safe and comfortable environment is essential for engagement. Visual clutter can be overstimulating for many children. Adjusting lighting can significantly impact sensory comfort. Providing sensory tools is vital for individual needs. Predictable routines help reduce anxiety in children. Flexibility within routines allows for better adaptation to changes. Safety should always be the top priority in educational settings. Children should have access to sensory tools without stigma. Understanding individual sensory preferences is key to effective support. We want to be consistent for our kids. Emotional stability requires discipline and self-reflection. Creating felt safety involves regulating our own responses. A calming area should be a regulation station, not a punishment zone. Respecting personal space is crucial for children's comfort. Movement is integral to learning and regulation. Fostering emotional safety starts with our language and actions. Using children's interests should enhance engagement, not manipulate them. Attuning to students' cues can prevent feelings of being unseen. Creating a safe environment is essential for building trust and skills. Keywords: autism, sensory environment, classroom setup, therapy space, safety, engagement, predictability, sensory tools, teaching strategies, child development, emotional consistency, calming spaces, personal space, overwhelming demands, attuning to cues, movement in learning, emotional safety, children's interests
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15. How to Be Neurodiversity Affirming in a Compliance-Based System
07/01/2025
15. How to Be Neurodiversity Affirming in a Compliance-Based System
Summary In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the challenges of implementing child-led approaches in systems that prioritize compliance and data collection. She emphasizes the importance of community support, building confidence in one's therapeutic approach, and making small shifts to create a more neuroaffirming environment for students. The conversation highlights the need for professionals to connect with like-minded colleagues and advocate for change, even in challenging work environments. In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the importance of empowering educators to adopt alternative approaches in their interactions with students, particularly those with communication challenges. She emphasizes the significance of reframing goals to prioritize connection, integrating sensory support, and navigating resistance within educational systems. Nicole also highlights the necessity of protecting one's energy while advocating for change, reminding listeners that every small shift contributes to a larger impact. Takeaways: Child-led approaches can be challenging in compliance-driven systems. Small shifts can lead to significant changes in practice. Community support is crucial for professionals feeling isolated. Confidence in one's approach is essential to advocate for change. Finding like-minded colleagues can enhance professional growth. It's important to prioritize co-regulation in therapy sessions. Data collection should not overshadow relationship building with students. Advocacy can start with small, subtle changes in practice. Toxic work environments can hinder professional development. Empowerment comes from connecting with others who share similar values. Empowering educators to try alternative approaches can lead to significant changes. Reframing goals to prioritize connection enhances the therapeutic process. Integrating sensory support is crucial for student engagement and comfort. Navigating resistance in educational systems requires patience and strategic communication. Protecting your energy is essential for sustainable advocacy. Small shifts in practice can lead to meaningful changes in student experiences. Modeling empathetic approaches can inspire others to adopt new strategies. Understanding the culture of a school can help in advocating for change. Every moment of connection over control adds up to a larger impact. You are not alone in your advocacy efforts; there is a community of support. Keywords: child-led therapy, neuroaffirming, systemic challenges, community support, confidence in therapy, small shifts, empowerment, education, autism support, professional development, education, advocacy, sensory support, child-led approach, communication, professional development, empowerment, reframing goals, resistance, burnout
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14. Avoiding Power Struggles With Autistic Students
06/24/2025
14. Avoiding Power Struggles With Autistic Students
Join the waitlist for the free Child-Led Autism Summit! Summary In this conversation, Nicole Casey explores the detrimental effects of compliance-based therapy on communication and relationships, particularly with autistic students. She shares personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of understanding power struggles, advocating for a shift towards child-led and neuroaffirming approaches that prioritize connection and co-regulation over control. The discussion highlights the need for educators and caregivers to preserve relationships and create safe environments for authentic communication. Takeaways Power struggles often arise from compliance-based approaches. Compliance-based therapy can lead to negative interactions and dysregulation. It's essential to view noncompliance as a potential internal struggle rather than defiance. Preserving relationships is more important than winning power struggles. Regulation should be prioritized before any demands are made on children. Humor and silliness can diffuse tense situations with children. Children deserve to express their emotions and frustrations. Advocating for change in compliance-based systems is crucial for better outcomes. Practicing standing up for values in low-stakes situations can build confidence. Connection and co-regulation are key to fostering meaningful communication. Keywords power struggles, compliance-based therapy, authentic communication, autistic students, co-regulation, child-led approach, neuroaffirming strategies, relationship preservation, education, therapy
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13. Supporting Autistic Kids Through Challenging Behaviors: Reframing, Understanding, and Responding with Connection
06/17/2025
13. Supporting Autistic Kids Through Challenging Behaviors: Reframing, Understanding, and Responding with Connection
In this episode, Nicole Casey explores how to support autistic children during challenging moments by reframing behaviors as stress responses rather than defiance. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying causes of these behaviors, which are often linked to the child's nervous system and anxiety levels. The conversation covers practical strategies for preventing dysregulation, recognizing early signs of stress, and the importance of co-regulation. Nicole also discusses the need for adults to adjust their expectations and environments to better support autistic children, ultimately advocating for a shift from control to connection in educational settings. Takeaways Understanding behaviors as stress responses is crucial. Changing our perspective can significantly impact support. Recognizing early signs of dysregulation is key. The four F's of nervous system responses are fight, flight, freeze, and fawn. Preventing unnecessary stressors helps maintain regulation. Co-regulation is essential during challenging moments. Post-dysregulation, reconnecting with the child is important. Adjusting expectations can prevent meltdowns. Children do their best with the skills they have. Shifting from control to connection changes lives.
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12. Describing & Defining What We Actually Do In Child-Led Therapy
06/10/2025
12. Describing & Defining What We Actually Do In Child-Led Therapy
In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the challenges of articulating the value of child-led therapy sessions. She emphasizes the importance of reframing how therapists describe their work to parents and educators, focusing on the relational and developmental outcomes rather than traditional metrics of success. Through a structured 'framing framework', she provides a method for therapists to confidently explain their sessions, ensuring that the significance of their work is recognized and understood. Child-led approaches can feel challenging due to external judgments. Articulating the value of therapy sessions is crucial for understanding. Therapists often minimize their work due to traditional expectations. The real work in therapy is often relational and developmental. Parents may not understand the nuances of child-led therapy. A structured framework can help therapists explain their sessions. Therapists should highlight the skills practiced during sessions. Regulation and trust are foundational for effective therapy. Therapists need to recognize and document progress beyond compliance. Collaboration with parents and educators enhances therapy outcomes. This podcast is reviewed by our team member, Meghann Beaton, who is an autistic adult. Meghann provides feedback and recommended edits priort to releasing our episodes to help ensure our content remains aligned with neuroaffirming principles and lived experience. We are deeply grateful for her insights, which continue to shape this space into one that centers safety, connection, and authentic communication.
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11. Is 80% Accuracy the Best Way to Measure Autistic Students' Progress?
06/03/2025
11. Is 80% Accuracy the Best Way to Measure Autistic Students' Progress?
Join The Child-Led Collective as a Founding Member for only $20/mo: In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the complexities and challenges of writing effective therapy goals, particularly focusing on the common practice of measuring progress with 80% accuracy. She reflects on her personal struggles with goal writing and emphasizes the need for more meaningful and individualized goals that align with a child-led approach. The discussion encourages therapists to rethink traditional measurement methods and consider how they can better support their students' unique needs. In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the complexities of setting effective communication goals for children, particularly those with autism. She emphasizes the importance of meaningful, individualized goals that reflect authentic communication rather than rigid metrics. Nicole introduces the concept of using an Aligned Rubric to track progress in a more nuanced way, focusing on frequency and context rather than strict accuracy. She also announces the launch of the Child-Led Collective, a membership aimed at supporting professionals in child-led therapy practices. 80% accuracy is often misapplied in goal writing. Goals should be meaningful and individualized. Therapists often feel pressured to conform to traditional metrics. Child-led approaches require flexibility in goal measurement. Overthinking can hinder effective goal writing. Goals should reflect authentic communication, not just compliance. The history of 80% accuracy is rooted in tradition, not necessity. Vague goals can lead to less progress for students. Therapists need creative liberty to measure progress effectively. It's important to challenge the status quo in goal writing. It's important to lead by example in team discussions. Goals should reflect authentic communication, not just metrics. Communication success should not be solely based on word count. Goals need to be individualized for each child's needs. Research supports the need for meaningful, flexible goals. Using rubrics can help track progress in a child-led way. Rubrics allow for customization and creativity in goal setting. The Child-Led Collective will provide resources for professionals. You can measure growth in ways that honor student development. This podcast is reviewed by our team member, Meghann Beaton, who is an autistic adult. Meghann provides feedback and recommended edits priort to releasing our episodes to help ensure our content remains aligned with neuroaffirming principles and lived experience. We are deeply grateful for her insights, which continue to shape this space into one that centers safety, connection, and authentic communication.
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10. Child-Led Therapy is NOT Passive: How to Plan for Our Sessions
05/27/2025
10. Child-Led Therapy is NOT Passive: How to Plan for Our Sessions
Join The Child-Led Collective as a Founding Member for only $20/mo: In this conversation, Nicole Casey explores the intricacies of child-led therapy, emphasizing the importance of planning, active engagement, and the adult's role in creating a supportive environment. She clarifies misconceptions about child-led approaches being passive and highlights the need for intentionality and presence in therapy sessions. The discussion also covers practical strategies for preparing for sessions, including self-regulation and setting intentions, ultimately underscoring the significance of connection in therapeutic interactions. Takeaways: Planning in child-led therapy focuses on presence and intention. Child-led does not mean passive; it requires active engagement. The adult's role is crucial in guiding child-led sessions. Creating a supportive environment is key to successful therapy. Self-preparation is essential for effective therapy sessions. Setting intentions helps guide the therapeutic process. Balancing speaking and pausing enhances communication. Connection is foundational for effective therapy. Child-led therapy is about honoring the child's process, not just outcomes. This podcast is reviewed by our team member, Meghann Beaton, who is an autistic adult. Meghann provides feedback and recommended edits priort to releasing our episodes to help ensure our content remains aligned with neuroaffirming principles and lived experience. We are deeply grateful for her insights, which continue to shape this space into one that centers safety, connection, and authentic communication.
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[EXCLUSIVE] Shape the Future of Child-Led Therapy as a Founding Member!
05/26/2025
[EXCLUSIVE] Shape the Future of Child-Led Therapy as a Founding Member!
In this episode, Nicole Casey introduces the Child-Led Collective, a new membership aimed at providing support and resources for child-led professionals. She invites YOU to join as a founding member, for a limited time only, at the lowest price it will ever be ($20/month, no long term contract required). She emphasizes the importance of community, practical tools, and strategies to help members navigate the challenges of the upcoming school year with confidence and clarity. The membership offers unique features such as a custom GPT for personalized support, live Q&A sessions, and a collaborative environment for sharing ideas and resources. Takeaways: May can feel chaotic and overwhelming for many. The Child-Led Collective aims to provide support during this transitional time. Membership offers practical tools and strategies for professionals. Community engagement is a key component of the membership. Founding members will help shape the resources provided. The membership is designed to be user-friendly and accessible. Members will have access to a custom GPT for personalized advice. Live Q&A sessions will provide real-time support and insights. The membership is priced affordably at $20 a month for founding members. Joining now allows for preparation before the busy school year begins.
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9. Relationship Based Boundaries in a Child-Led Approach
05/20/2025
9. Relationship Based Boundaries in a Child-Led Approach
In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses the importance of establishing boundaries within child-led therapy. She explains how locking the toy closet in her clinic serves as a safety measure rather than a restriction, emphasizing that structure and safety can enhance a child's autonomy. The conversation explores the balance between child-led practices and necessary boundaries, highlighting that boundaries are essential for creating a safe and predictable environment for children. Nicole encourages listeners to reflect on their own practices and consider how boundaries can support both the child's needs and the therapist's well-being. Takeaways: Locking the toy closet is for safety, not restriction. Structure and safety enhance a child's autonomy. Child-led therapy requires establishing boundaries. Boundaries serve the relationship, not just control. Predictability is more meaningful than strict structure. Being child-led does not mean self-sacrificing. Boundaries help in co-regulating with children. Safety is the foundation of child-led therapy. Balance between structure and flexibility is crucial. Reflect on personal boundaries in therapy practices. This podcast is reviewed by our team member, Meghann Beaton, who is an autistic adult. Meghann provides feedback and recommended edits priort to releasing our episodes to help ensure our content remains aligned with neuroaffirming principles and lived experience. We are deeply grateful for her insights, which continue to shape this space into one that centers safety, connection, and authentic communication.
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8. Building Emotional Safety Through Co-Regulation
05/13/2025
8. Building Emotional Safety Through Co-Regulation
In this episode, Nicole Casey explores the concept of co-regulation, emphasizing its importance in supporting autistic children and fostering effective communication. She reflects on her personal experiences with dysregulation and how co-regulation has played a crucial role in her parenting and professional life. The discussion highlights the need for emotional safety and connection in the learning process, and how understanding co-regulation can transform interactions with children. Through a case study, Nicole illustrates practical strategies for implementing co-regulation in therapy settings. In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the importance of co-regulation in helping children, especially those with autism, manage their stress responses. She shares practical strategies for adults to regulate themselves first, which in turn helps children feel safe and connected. Through various examples, she emphasizes the need for understanding children's emotional states and using sensory support to facilitate better communication and connection. The conversation highlights the significance of modeling regulation and creating a safe environment for children to thrive emotionally and socially. Takeaways: Co-regulation is essential for successful interactions with autistic children. Dysregulation affects both children and adults, impacting learning and engagement. Emotional safety is a prerequisite for effective communication and learning. Co-regulation is a two-way street, requiring mutual support. Regulation is cumulative; ongoing co-regulation is necessary. Connection is vital for creating a safe environment for children. Dysregulation can manifest as behavioral issues, not just personal failures. Understanding co-regulation can enhance therapeutic practices. Personal experiences with dysregulation can inform professional approaches. Creating a supportive environment is crucial for both therapists and children. Co-regulation is essential for helping children feel safe. Understanding a child's stress response is crucial. Modeling calmness can help children regulate their emotions. Creating a safe environment reduces sensory overload. Adults must regulate themselves before helping children. Using sensory support is more effective than verbal commands. Lowering demands can help children feel more secure. Building trust through co-regulation fosters better relationships. Children often regulate through movement, not words. Establishing routines can enhance long-term regulation skills. Keywords: co-regulation, autism, therapy, emotional safety, communication, dysregulation, parenting, mental health, support strategies, learning, co-regulation, child development, stress response, emotional regulation, autism, sensory processing, parenting strategies, teaching techniques, mental health, connection
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7. When The Doubt Creeps In: Reframing "Imposter Syndrome"
05/06/2025
7. When The Doubt Creeps In: Reframing "Imposter Syndrome"
In this conversation, Nicole Casey delves into the complexities of imposter syndrome, sharing her personal experiences and insights on self-doubt, particularly in the context of therapy and professional growth. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's strengths, overcoming the comparison trap, and embracing authenticity. Through her journey, she highlights that everyone has their unique path and that self-acceptance is crucial for personal and professional fulfillment. Takeaways Imposter syndrome is a common feeling of self-doubt. Social media can amplify feelings of inadequacy. It's important to recognize that everyone has their own path. Comparison can lead to feelings of being less than others. Being messy or disorganized doesn't define your worth as a therapist. Flexibility and authenticity are strengths in therapy. You don't need to be perfect to make an impact. Self-acceptance is key to overcoming self-doubt. Your unique approach can resonate with those you serve It's okay to not have everything figured out. To learn more about Nicole, a Child-Led Approach, and to download our freebies, visit
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6. Gatekeeping AAC: Can Programming a Child's Device Be More Collaborative?
04/29/2025
6. Gatekeeping AAC: Can Programming a Child's Device Be More Collaborative?
To learn more about Nicole and download the freebies, visit In this episode, Nicole Casey discusses her unpopular opinion regarding AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) and emphasizes the importance of personalization, motor planning, and empowering teams to engage with AAC devices. She challenges the notion that AAC programming should be left solely to specialists and advocates for a more inclusive approach that encourages collaboration among all team members. Nicole shares her experiences with a new student and highlights the significance of having a well-programmed AAC device that reflects the child's interests. She concludes by offering insights into her programming approach, which focuses on minor tweaks rather than extensive programming. In this conversation, Nicole Casey discusses the importance of personalizing AAC devices for children, emphasizing the need for individualized programming that reflects the child's preferences and relationships. She advocates for collaborative approaches to programming, utilizing technology for training and support, and establishing a point person for AAC programming within teams. Casey highlights the significance of empowering all team members to engage with AAC devices, ensuring that communication remains accessible and effective for children. Takeaways: Nicole believes that AAC programming should not be intimidating or exclusive to specialists. Personalization in AAC devices is crucial for effective communication. Motor planning is essential for AAC users to communicate efficiently. Empowering all team members to engage with AAC devices enhances communication. Celebrating small efforts in AAC programming can lead to significant progress. The traditional specialist model can create barriers to AAC access. Understanding a child's interests can guide effective AAC programming We are not gatekeepers, we're guides. Programming doesn't need to be all by one person. If you loved today's episode, please subscribe to the podcast and leave us a 5 star review so others can find us! This podcast is reviewed by our team member, Meghann Beaton, who is an autistic adult. Meghann provides feedback and recommended edits priort to releasing our episodes to help ensure our content remains aligned with neuroaffirming principles and lived experience. We are deeply grateful for her insights, which continue to shape this space into one that centers safety, connection, and authentic communication.
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5. Rethinking Joint Attention: Supporting Autistic Kids Without Forcing Neurotypical Engagement
04/22/2025
5. Rethinking Joint Attention: Supporting Autistic Kids Without Forcing Neurotypical Engagement
Enjoying the podcast? Leave a kind review to help others find this show :) To learn more about Nicole or download freebies, read blog, and dive into our courses and workbooks, visit This conversation delves into the concept of joint attention, particularly in the context of autistic children. Nicole Casey discusses how traditional views on joint attention often overlook the diverse ways in which autistic children engage and communicate. She emphasizes the importance of understanding joint attention as a shared experience rather than a set of behaviors to be taught. The discussion also critiques the use of strategies like sabotage, advocating instead for a child-led approach that fosters trust and connection. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the significance of engagement and the need to adapt our understanding of communication to better support autistic individuals. This podcast is reviewed by our team member, Meghann Beaton, who is an autistic adult. Meghann provides feedback and recommended edits priort to releasing our episodes to help ensure our content remains aligned with neuroaffirming principles and lived experience. We are deeply grateful for her insights, which continue to shape this space into one that centers safety, connection, and authentic communication.
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