SLP 337: Autism + Environment = Outcome: How to Recognise and Support Executive Functioning Struggles in Neurodivergent Students

SLP 337: Autism + Environment = Outcome: How to Recognise and Support Executive Functioning Struggles in Neurodivergent Students

Author: Sue Larkey March 16, 2026 Duration: 35:45

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In this episode, we will discuss:

✅ Executive Functioning: Brain's admin team managing planning, organizing, deadlines, emotions.
✅ Autistic Inertia: Difficulty shifting gears from rest to action or stopping.
✅ Environment Over Child: Modify structure, not the child—autism plus environment equals outcome.
✅ Neurological vs Behavioral: Executive functioning issues are can't-do, not lazy won't-do.
✅ Object Permanence Anxiety: Out-of-sight tasks create persistent worry about completion.
✅ Understanding Changes Adults: Why matters more than what for changing practitioner approach.
✅ Neurotypical Privilege: Neurotypical brains process less information; world designed for them.

Read more about this podcast in the show notes found via the link below

suelarkey.com.au/executive-functioning-classroom-strategies

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The Sue Larkey Podcast-Autism (ASD), ADHD, ODD and PDA education is a practical resource for parents, educators, and carers navigating neurodiversity. Hosted by experienced teacher and consultant Sue Larkey, this podcast translates complex topics into actionable advice you can use straight away. Each episode focuses on real-world strategies for supporting children and teens across the spectrum, including those with co-occurring conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Pathological Demand Avoidance. The conversation spans from early intervention through the teenage years and into adulthood, addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities at each stage. You’ll hear clear explanations of often-misunderstood behaviours, alongside evidence-based techniques for communication, learning, and reducing anxiety in home and school settings. The tone is consistently empathetic and grounded in decades of hands-on experience, making specialist knowledge feel accessible. While the core of the podcast is Sue's direct guidance, she frequently incorporates insights from other professionals and the lived experiences of families. It’s designed to be both informative and reassuring, offering a sense of community and practical next steps. For those who want to dive deeper, show notes often point to related books and downloadable resources available on Sue's website, extending the learning from each audio session. This is a podcast that understands the daily realities of supporting neurodivergent young people, prioritizing useful takeaways over theory.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Sue Larkey Podcast - Autism (ASD), ADHD, ODD and PDA education
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