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Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

Are meltdowns and tantrums the same thing? In this enlightening episode of My BCBA Life, Penina sits down with behavior analyst Julie Aiello to unpack the real differences between these two commonly misunderstood behaviors. Whether you're a parent, educator, or behavior professional, understanding these distinctions can change how you support children during tough moments.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What is the core difference between a meltdown and a tantrum?
• How can parents and professionals respond differently to each?
• What strategies can help prevent meltdowns and tantrums before they begin?
• How does preparation and functional communication play a role?
• What is the emotional impact of a parent’s response to these behaviors?

Julie Aiello is a behavior analyst with years of hands-on experience supporting children and families through behavioral challenges. Her approach is grounded in compassion, evidence-based practices, and a deep commitment to helping children develop essential emotional regulation skills.

Time Stamps:

00:00 - Meltdowns vs. Tantrums: What’s the Difference?

07:46 – Why the Distinction Matters

17:12 – Proactive Behavior Management Strategies

24:13 – Preventing Tantrums with Skill Building

25:41 – Uncovering the Goal Behind Tantrums

28:43 – Navigating Meltdowns: What Helps

31:27 – Front Loading for Success

35:37 – Communication and Emotional Validation

40:07 – Parental Impact and Final Thoughts

Struggling to understand your child’s behaviors?

Tune in to this episode for expert tips and compassionate guidance that can make a real difference.

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.

Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

--Ever felt like every request turns into a battle with your child? Discover the unique world of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and how it intersects with autism in this insightful episode of 'My BCBA Life.' Host Penina sits down with Lauren Reed, a seasoned BCBA, to unpack the complexities of PDA, exploring why some children instinctively resist demands and how parents can navigate these challenges with empathy and understanding.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and how is it different from typical autism behaviors?
• How can parents identify signs of PDA in their children?
• What strategies can reduce power struggles and promote collaboration?
• How does the PANDA approach help in managing PDA effectively?
• What can parents do to support their own mental health while caring for a child with PDA?

Lauren Read, BCBA, joins the show to demystify Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), a lesser-known but increasingly recognized profile within the autism spectrum. She explains that PDA is characterized by extreme resistance to everyday demands due to a heightened need for autonomy and control, often mistaken for oppositional behavior. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration over authority, practical strategies to avoid power struggles, and the role of co-regulation in helping children manage their emotions. Lauren also shares insights on recognizing physical signs of distress, setting collaborative boundaries, and fostering a safe, supportive home environment.

About the Guest:

Lauren Reed is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) specializing in working with children on the autism spectrum. She has a deep understanding of PDA and its impact on families, offering compassionate, evidence-based strategies for managing challenging behaviors.

Key Takeaways:

• PDA is a distinct profile within autism that requires a unique approach.
• Collaboration and flexibility are critical for reducing power struggles.
• Recognizing bodily responses can help parents anticipate and manage challenging behaviors.
• Creating a safe and supportive environment can significantly improve outcomes for children with PDA.
• Self-care is essential for parents managing the emotional toll of PDA.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation

02:59 Setting the Stage: Free CEUs and Surprise Words

03:50 Guest Introduction: Meet Lauren Reed

04:50 Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

05:55 Identifying PDA in Children

08:47 Approaching PDA: Strategies and Techniques

14:17 Parenting Tips for Managing PDA

19:53 Collaborative Parenting Approach

20:45 Avoiding Power Struggles

22:26 The Importance of Responsibility

24:37 Setting Collaborative Rules

27:10...

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.

Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

--

What makes a truly effective leader in the world of ABA?

In this episode, Penina sits down with Paola Ortiz, a seasoned BCBA and Psychology Professor, to uncover the leadership qualities that set exceptional BCBAs apart.

From fostering empathy with families to setting clear goals for their teams, Paola shares her insights on how to lead with purpose, clarity, and consistency.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What are the essential leadership traits for BCBAs?
• How can ABA professionals build meaningful connections with families?
• Why is empathy a critical component of effective leadership?
• What can the "Jam Study" teach us about decision-making in leadership?
• How can continuous learning shape a BCBA's leadership journey?

In this insightful episode, Penina speaks with Paola Ortiz about the critical leadership skills required for BCBAs. Paola emphasizes the importance of clear communication, consistency, and empathy when working with both families and colleagues.

She highlights real-life examples of leadership in action, discussing how small decisions can have significant impacts on the effectiveness of ABA practice. Paola also introduces the Jam Study as a powerful metaphor for decision-making in leadership, encouraging listeners to prioritize clarity and purpose in their roles.

About The Guest:

Paola Ortiz is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Psychology Professor with a passion for guiding ABA professionals in their leadership journeys.

With years of experience in the field, Paola is dedicated to helping fellow BCBAs develop the skills needed to lead teams effectively and foster meaningful connections with the families they serve.

Key Takeaways:

1. Clear communication and consistency are foundational to effective leadership.
2. Empathy and emotional intelligence are critical when engaging with parents and team members.
3. Decision-making in leadership requires clarity and a focus on long-term goals.
4. Continuous learning and self-reflection are essential for growth as a leader.
5. Applying ABA principles to leadership can significantly enhance team dynamics and outcomes.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Leadership in ABA: A Broader Perspective

06:23 BCBA as a Leader: Real-Life Examples

8:12 Effective Leadership Strategies

17:24 Engaging with Parents as a Leader

23:38 Defining Leadership in ABA

24:12 Empathy and Parental Involvement

24:59 The Role of a Leader in ABA

27:08 The Jam Study and Decision Making

28:48 Applying the Jam Study to Leadership

33:43 Key Leadership Qualities

38:26 Continuous Learning and Accountability

Links for the Guest:

You can follow her on Instagram