Dr Lara Tarocco

What My Lessons Are Like
Specialized Support for Autism, ADHD, and Diverse Learning Needs

A Calm, Predictable Structure That Reduces Stress
My sessions are designed to feel safe, steady, and manageable. I use:
- Clear routines so students always know what to expect
- Short, focused activities to support attention and reduce overwhelm
- Visual aids and step-by-step guidance for clarity
- Sensory-friendly pacing with breaks when needed
- Gentle transitions to avoid sudden changes

This structure helps autistic learners feel grounded and helps individuals with ADHD stay engaged without pressure.

Coping Mechanisms That Actually Work
I teach practical, personalised strategies that students can use in real life, such as:
- Emotional regulation tools
- Techniques for managing sensory overload
- Focus and attention strategies
- Executive functioning supports (planning, organizing, task initiation)
- Communication and social-interaction skills
- Stress-reduction and calming techniques

Every strategy is taught in a way that matches the student’s strengths, needs, and learning style.

A Supportive, Neurodiversity-Affirming Environment
My teaching style is patient, flexible, and deeply respectful of how different brains work. In my lessons:
- Stimming, fidgeting, and movement are welcome
- Students can express themselves freely
- Mistakes are treated as part of learning
- Breaks are encouraged, not discouraged
- I adapt the lesson to the student—not the other way around

The goal is to build confidence, not conformity.

My Experience
I have extensive experience supporting individuals with:
- Autism across a wide range of support needs
- ADHD (inattentive, hyperactive, and combined types)
- Sensory processing differences
- Anxiety related to learning or communication
- Executive function challenges
- Students who haven’t thrived in traditional learning environments

My approach blends evidence-based strategies with compassion, patience, and a deep understanding of neurodiversity.

What Students Gain From My Lessons
- Stronger coping skills for daily life
- Better emotional regulation
- Improved focus and task-management strategies
- Increased independence and self-awareness
- More confidence in communication and social situations
- A sense of being understood, supported, and capable