The Story of Autism Little Learners
Founder of Autism Little Learners
Hi, I’m Tara Phillips
I specialize in supporting autistic preschoolers and the educators and caregivers who love them. What makes my work unique is that I don’t just offer resources; I offer a full system of support that bridges research, lived experience, and practical classroom application.
I created the High Support Needs Curriculum, the only program of its kind that meets required standards while honoring each autistic child’s learning style. And because I know teachers are under pressure to use boxed curriculums, I provide Core Guides that map my strategies directly to Creative Curriculum, Heggerty, and more, so no one is ever left “guessing” how to implement.
Through my membership, I don’t stop at resources. I guarantee coaching calls, along with regular coaching weeks, and monthly trainings, so educators feel supported every step of the way. My community also hears directly from the most trusted experts and self-advocates, like Barry Prizant, Jordyn Zimmerman, Cari Ebert, Nicole Casey, and Dr. Taylor Day, which means they’re always learning from the forefront of autism education.
Beyond my membership, I’ve spoken for school districts, founded and continue to host the Annual Global Preschool Autism Summit, a worldwide gathering dedicated to elevating neuroaffirming early-childhood practices, consulted with organizations, and even trained caregivers internationally, most recently for Beaches Resorts’ Autism Inclusion Week. My podcast has become a go-to for teachers and families worldwide, featuring leading voices in the field.
At the heart of all this is one guarantee: I help develop classrooms and homes into spaces where autistic children are understood, included, and thriving always with compassion over compliance and through a neuroaffirming approach that honors each child’s unique communication style, learning profile, and way of being.
Didn’t have time to read all of that?
(here are the cliffnotes)
International Educator & Speaker
Creator of High Support Needs Curriculum
Host of the Preschool Autism Summit
At the heart of this is one guarantee:
I help develop classrooms and homes into spaces where autistic children are understood, included, and thriving.
Meet the Team
Lori
Director of Financial Operations
Lori helps keep Autism Little Learners running smoothly behind the scenes, making sure members always have easy, stress-free access to their accounts, subscriptions, and support. With years of customer service experience and a naturally friendly, “happy to help” spirit, she loves making every member feel welcomed and cared for.
As Tara’s best friend for 35 years. Lori takes pride in helping this community feel supported every step of the way. And when she’s not helping members, she’s soaking up her favorite new role: being a grandma to a sweet little girl.
Tina
Director of Content & Curriculum
As a retired educator who now supports Autism Little Learners behind the scenes, Tina helps organize the moving pieces so teachers, therapists, and families can easily find the tools they need.
A coffee-loving mountain mama of four (and Ami to one!) who has worked on the teaching, admin, and business sides of education, and uses all of that experience to help make things clearer, smoother, and easier for the people caring for young autistic children.
Ashley
Virtual Event Coordinator
Ashley is an Event Planner who began her career creating unforgettable in-person experiences and now brings that same energy and intention to the virtual space. She is passionate about designing impactful, high-quality online events that leave attendees feeling motivated, inspired, and genuinely connected.
When Ashley isn’t creating meaningful experiences, she enjoys spending time with her two kids, reading mysteries, and exercising. She is honored to be part of the Preschool Autism Summit team.
Shawna
Director of Marketing & Executive Assistant to the CEO
Shawna supports the leadership team by keeping systems, workflows, and communication running smoothly behind the scenes. With a strong eye for detail and a calm, thoughtful approach, she helps turn ideas into organized, reliable processes that reduce stress and support day-to-day execution.
