Managing PDA in a mainstream classroom – Part 2

Part of the PDA Society podcast series. Part One of each podcast is free to access with our free subscription, while Part Two offers a deeper dive and is available exclusively to paid monthly and annual subscribers.

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In this Deep Dive episode, Rachel Crutcher is joined by Kelly Evans, a teacher with over 20 years’ experience, autism advisor, and parent of an PDAer. Together, they explore practical ways to help PDA children thrive in mainstream school settings.

Kelly draws on her work supporting schools, staff, and families, sharing real-life examples and strategies that make a difference. From homework battles to uniform struggles, behaviour points to masking, this conversation is packed with insights for both parents and professionals.

Topics Covered:

• Why homework can be so difficult — and how schools can make reasonable adjustments

• Supporting uniform needs when sensory challenges get in the way

• The limitations of behaviour point systems and how they affect trust

• Teaching strategies that reduce demands and encourage collaboration

• Giving PDA learners more control without losing authority in the classroom

• Managing last-minute changes, such as staff absence or room moves

• Supporting children who mask at school but release their anxiety at home

• Steps for re-engaging a PDA child who is unable to attend school

• How to explain reasonable adjustments to classmates (and staff)

• Practical ideas for when space is limited — sensory breaks without a dedicated room

• Overcoming barriers to PE and creative writing tasks

• Recognising signs of burnout and adapting timetables to reduce stress

Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers in this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the PDA Society. While we aim to provide balanced and inclusive discussions, individual experiences and perspectives may vary. The PDA Society is committed to using language and terminology that reflects the preferences of PDA/autistic people, but sometimes our guests may use language and terminology which differs. Appearance on our podcast is not an endorsement of an individual, and not all of our guests will align with our position on the issues discussed.