37. From Locked-In to Breakthrough: Task-Oriented Movement for Autism Therapy

Restrictive, repetitive behaviors (RRBs) in autism impact far more than play—they affect communication, social interaction, motor skills, executive function, and even brain development. Left unaddressed, these patterns can lock children into cycles of stress and poor outcomes. In today’s episode, Kelly Vess breaks down the research on RRBs, exposing both the visible impacts (social, language, independence) and the hidden neurological and cellular changes. More importantly, she shares the most powerful antidote: task-oriented movement activities. These purposeful, problem-solving movement interventions don’t just reduce restrictive behaviors—they actively build communication, executive function, and motor development. You’ll learn how SLPs, teachers, parents, and caregivers can implement these activities to create meaningful, lifelong change for children with autism spectrum disorder. ✨ Want ready-to-use, empirically-based therapy materials that include speech, language, literacy, AAC, and movement-based weekly activities plus a Google Slides parent/large group/teletherapy deck every week? Join the SIS Membership today: https://www.kellyvess.com/sis