Autism Teaching Strategies from Temple Grandin

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Autism Teaching Strategies from Temple Grandin: Insights from a True Expert

If you're looking for practical, compassionate, and truly insider strategies for supporting students with autism, there's no better voice than Dr. Temple Grandin—an individual with autism who has become one of the most influential advocates and educators in the field.

In this powerful video, Temple Grandin shares firsthand insights on autism:
✅ classroom strategies that actually work
✅ tips for helping students thrive academically and socially
✅ what it feels like to have autism—and why understanding this matters

👉 Watch the video here

You'll walk away inspired and better equipped to meet the needs of your students.

Why Listen to Temple Grandin?

Diagnosed with autism at age 2, Temple Grandin defied early predictions and, with support from her mother and educators, grew up to become:

• A leading animal science expert
• A professor and researcher
• A best-selling author
• A world-renowned speaker on autism and neurodiversity

Her ability to explain how autistic brains process information—and how teachers can adjust their approach—makes her a must-watch for anyone working with children on the spectrum. 

BONUS VIDEO: What It Feels Like to Have Autism

In a second video, Temple shares what it’s like to experience the world through an autistic lens. This is a must-watch if you want to understand sensory challenges, communication differences, and what helps vs. what overwhelms.

Temple Grandin - The "Autistic" Brain

Favorite Tools for Teaching Students with Autism

Whether you’re a seasoned special education teacher or just starting out, these ready-to-use resources from my TpT store can help support your students with autism:

Over 175 Accommodations – Click here to preview

Help your students succeed in the general education classroom with this extensive, editable checklist.

Plan of Action Toolkit 

Set clear, consistent behavior and academic supports using this structured, printable plan. Ideal for IEPs, 504s, and RTI!

To implement a plan of action:

Temple Grandin Books and Resources (Amazon Affiliate)

The Autistic Brain: Helping Different Kinds of Minds Succeed

Temple Grandin DVD Movie

Thinking in Pictures, Expanded Edition: My Life with Autism

The Way I See It: A Personal Look at Autism & Asperger's: 32 New Subject Revised & Expanded 4th Edition

Different . . . Not Less: Inspiring Stories of Achievement and Successful Employment from Adults with Autism, Asperger's, and ADHD

Where is She Now? 

As of May 2025, Dr. Temple Grandin remains an active and influential figure in both animal science and autism advocacy.

Current Roles and Activities

• Professor at Colorado State University: Dr. Grandin continues to teach and mentor students in animal science, focusing on livestock behavior and facility design. 
• Author and Speaker: She regularly presents at conferences and events, sharing insights on autism and animal welfare. For instance, she is scheduled to speak in Boise, Idaho, on May 28, 2025, discussing "Autism: The Way I See It." 
• Consultant: Dr. Grandin continues to consult with the livestock industry, advising on animal behavior and welfare. 

Recent Honors

• USA TODAY's 2025 Women of the Year: Dr. Grandin was recognized for her contributions to science and advocacy. 
• 2025 AVMA Humane Award: She received this prestigious award from the American Veterinary Medical Association for her work in promoting humane treatment of animals. 

Upcoming Engagements

• International Appearances: In July 2025, Dr. Grandin is scheduled to visit Málaga and Córdoba, Spain, to present her documentary "Abriendo puertas" and engage with local communities on autism and animal welfare topics. 

Dr. Grandin resides in Fort Collins, Colorado, where she balances her academic responsibilities with ongoing advocacy and public speaking engagements.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to autism. But as Temple Grandin reminds us, understanding and empathy are where real progress begins. When we learn from people who’ve lived it, we teach better, advocate stronger, and connect more deeply with every child.

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Shelly Anton is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. ** This means there are Amazon affiliate links in these blog posts. This does not mean you pay a dime more when you purchase a product through the link. It just means I am trying to save you valuable teacher time by making it easier for you to find great resources for your students, and I earn a few cents for my research and time. Thank you for all you do for kids!