Hey teacher friend - you’ve been tracking, tallying, and color-coding behavior data… but now you’re wondering, “Okay, what do I actually do with it?”

In this episode, we’re breaking down how to interpret behavior data.. what it really means, what it doesn’t, and how to use it to create real change for your students. Because data isn’t about numbers.. it’s about stories.

• Why behavior data is meant to inform, not judge

• The different types of data (frequency, duration, latency, ABC) - and what each reveals

• How to look for trends and context, not just totals

• Common data traps that can mislead you

• How to identify a behavior’s function so you can support, not punish

• Turning graphs and charts into practical classroom insight

• Data + context = clarity. Numbers alone never tell the full story.

• Look for patterns over time, not one-off incidents.

• Pair quantitative data with notes and reflection. Your instincts matter too.

• Focus on function: What purpose is the behavior serving?

• Celebrate micro-progress. Shorter duration, quicker recovery.. it all counts.

• Tell the story: When sharing data, lead with empathy, not statistics.

Behavior data isn’t proof of a problem... it’s a language.

Hey teacher friend, we’ve all been there.

The tone shifts, a student’s body tenses, and you can feel the energy in the room change.

What you do in that moment can completely shape what happens next.

In this episode, we’re talking about real de-escalation techniques you can use right now, what to say, what not to say, how to use your body language, and how to calm things before they spiral.

These are practical, realistic strategies you can start using today to keep your classroom, and yourself, steady when emotions rise.

• Why escalation is communication, not manipulation

• How to spot early warning signs before a meltdown

• Simple language swaps that instantly lower tension

• The power of body language, silence, and co-regulation

• How to debrief after an incident and protect your own energy

• Notice early. Pacing, clenched fists, or refusals are clues, not defiance.

• Stay calm first. Breathe, drop your shoulders, lower your voice.

• Say less. Try: “You’re safe.” “I’m here to help.” “Let’s take a break.”

• Avoid ultimatums. Offer choices like “Sit or stand?” “Here or calm corner?”

• Co-regulate. Model slow breathing, stay nearby, and wait quietly.

• Debrief later. Once calm, reflect on what worked... for both of you.

You’re not giving in when you de-escalate, you’re giving safety.
Your calm presence is the most powerful tool you have. Connection first, correction later.

Hey teacher friend, let’s talk inclusion. 💛
We all believe in it, but between IEPs, sensory supports, and a million tiny details, inclusion can start to feel like a full-time job on top of your full-time job.

In this episode, I’m sharing real, low-prep strategies that make inclusion doable, not perfect or Pinterest-ready, just practical, functional, and effective. These are the small changes that help every student belong without adding hours of prep to your plate.

• What inclusion really means (and what it isn’t)

• The mindset shift: same goal, different path

• 10 easy, low-prep strategies that make inclusion feel natural

• How small environmental tweaks and routines make a big impact

• Why presence matters more than perfection

• Use visuals everywhere: step-by-step picture cues, first/then strips, finished bins.

• Simplify tasks, not content: keep the learning goal, change the format.

• Pair students strategically: rotating peer partners builds belonging.

• Offer universal tools: fidgets, headphones, choice seating for everyone.

• Anchor learning in routines: embed goals into morning meeting or snack time.

• Model everything: short, clear directions + demonstration = instant inclusion.

• Prioritize shared experiences: same lesson, different access points.

Inclusion doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be possible.
When you focus on simple visuals, clear routines, and flexible choices, you’re already creating a classroom where every student belongs.