For those working with students with autism or other disabilities, here are materials, items and advice that make the difference.
Sections
6
Sensory Items
Books
Reinforcers and Rewards
First Day
Behind the Scenes
Making Session Easier...For Everyone
Sensory Items
Regulation will always help with education!
A great alternative for kids who don't like the play-doh texture
Floof - Play-Doh Alt
Like a hug around the whole body! Great for clinics or private practice.
Harkla Pea Pod
Mini Tins are perfect and cost effective!
Crazy Aaron's Putty Mini Tins
Any brand will do, but kids tend to like this softer texture. Lifesaver for hard days!
Weighted Blanket for Kids
Novel and cheap, there are many fidget pens but I love these!
Toy Fidget Pens
Silent and perfect for focus during table work or school. Great for kids who are older or want something quiet.
Tom's Fidgets Original Flippy Chain Fidget Toy
Homemade, affordable fidgets by an autistic teacher who GETS it.
All Things Sensory Shop
Gross motor and heavy weight can make all the difference
Kids Medicine Ball
Books
From autistic or disabled authors, or parents and caregivers of disabled kids
A fantastic book from the inner thoughts of a non-speaking person with autism. I love my copy.
The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy ...
For kids who struggle with their autism diagnosis
All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism|Hardcover
A wonderful book I think all RBTs should read. Shows the inner monologue of a middle schooler with autism, including all the frustration she feels
Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen!
Reinforcers and Rewards
From Five Below, these cars roll perfectly and are too big to swallow.
Mickey/Minnie Cars
Smooth and sensory-appealing. Cheap and can get multiple colors!
LCD Writing Tablets
Kids love these. Not good for anyone with Pica, but 24 for $5 can't be beat
Mini Food Erasers
You can get really fancy with these, but they take music from an auditory to a whole sensory experience. Great for reinforcing an entire group at once.
Color Changing Speaker
No mess (besides spilled water), and amazes kids every time
Water Wow
I would be remiss if I didn't mention Ms Rachel. Never feel bad about screen time as a reinforcer if that's what works!
Ms Rachel - Toddler Learning Videos
Educational content based on Akili, who lives in Africa. Excellent representation with great music!
Akili and Me
I LOVE this one. Affordable and reinforceing. Fun for math, too!
Gigglescape Doodle Mat
First Day
Quick tips and resources for pairing and surviving, and proving yourself as a safe, fun person
Super common channel among kids with autism--learning these songs and you'll be better off
Super Simple Songs - Kids Songs
Like Super Simple Songs, get used to these
Little Baby Bum - Nursery Rhymes & Kids Songs
Behind the Scenes
Ideally, all supplies would be paid for. However…if you're going to use your own money, here are what I would splurge on.
Any laminator will do, I like ones with a paper cutter on top.
Laminator
Again, any type will work. But laminated materials last longer and are harder to swallow
Professional Lamination Services That Preserve & Protect
Making Session Easier...For Everyone
Michael's always has a whiteboard in the dollar section. Makes writing a little less laborious
