03/22/2026
1. Record and review everything
�I would record every session and rewatch them regularly. I would train myself to notice how I respond to the child and how my responses shape their engagement, regulation, and communication.
2. Find a mentor, not just more courses
�I would stop collecting certificates and invest in a mentor who has the skills I actually want. Someone who challenges me, pushes me, and does not let me stay comfortable.
3. Study with intention
�I would read books and journal articles that deepen my understanding of how to truly profile a child, including how they regulate, communicate, and engage.
4. Learn from the uncomfortable moments
�I would rewatch my most cringey sessions and analyze them honestly. Where did I miss cues? Where did I move too fast? I would treat every bad session as a learning opportunity.
5. Practice affect in everyday life
�I would become more aware of my tone, energy, and expression in real conversations with my spouse, friends, and kids and notice how it impacts connection and response.
6. Build physical endurance for movement
I would train my body to keep up by jumping, running, and lifting so I am ready to use movement as a tool for regulation and engagement throughout the entire session.
7. Drop the excuses
�I would stop saying a child is too challenging. There is no such thing, just a gap in skill. And skills can be built.
What habits are you currently building to be better at engaging the autistic children you support?
