behavior

Introduction to the Empowering the Spectrum of Parents (ESP) Program

Introduction to the Empowering the Spectrum of Parents (ESP) Program

We are so excited to partner with the neuropsychologists at Kids Brain to bring a new parent coaching program to you, Empowering the Spectrum of Parents (ESP)! Join us today, with options for live virtual group sessions, on-demand webinars, and 1:1 individualized coaching!

Guest Blog written by Dr. Jennifer Morrison (Kids BRAIN, Dallas, Texas)

Children on the autism spectrum are not usually very flexible. They require consistency and predictability at a far higher level than other children their age.

“The Function” of Behavior

“The Function” of Behavior

The phrase “function of (a) behavior” is quite common in the field of applied behavior analysis. As a behavior analyst, identifying the “function” of a person’s behavior is one of the most important aspects of the job. As a parent or caretaker, determining why a behavior occurs is critical to responding appropriately and getting the desired action/response from your child. Why is my child falling to the floor and screaming when I tell him we are having hamburgers for dinner? Why is my kiddo poking his brother in the backseat of the car even though I’m telling him to “STOP NOW!”? All behavior happens for a reason and finding out why is crucial for behavior change.

A strategy to increase positive behaviors and decrease challenges

A strategy to increase positive behaviors and decrease challenges

We are big fans of preventative, proactive strategies— it’s often easier to address challenging behaviors before they even happen. One of our favorite strategies is the Premack Principle, a tool developed by and named for psychologist David Premack.

Is ABA effective for adults?

Is ABA effective for adults?

Although Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is well-known for its effectiveness for children with autism, we know that interventions based in ABA can be helpful for individuals of all ages, with or without autism.  Although intervention looks different in young children versus older children and adults, the principles used remain the same.

Learning through Imitation

Learning through Imitation

Just by watching others, we can learn what to do. Imitation is a very powerful learning tool! When I see you perform an action, I am able to imitate the same action immediately or later when you are not there. Imitation is one way that we teach children without intentional teaching – children learn so much by copying others around them, whether it is picking up new language or how to navigate social interactions.

Navigating medical appointments: A prevention strategy

Navigating medical appointments: A prevention strategy

As behavior analysts, one of the first things we do when looking at challenging behavior is look to any medical causes and contributions for challenging behavior before intervening. We recommend our clients go to an appropriate medical professional for this. A lot of times, though, getting to and through a medical appointment can be a significant challenge for some children and adults.

Having Fun Together

Having Fun Together

Having fun together is a key part of your child’s learning. Why is increasing smiles and laughter so important to learning? The more fun your child has with you, the more they are attending and interacting. This translates into more opportunities for learning exchanges!

Self-Management: An Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)

Self-Management: An Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)

Self-management is a strategy to increase independence and teach new skills and behaviors through monitoring, recording, and rewarding one’s own behavior. With self-management, the individual monitors his own behavior, rather than someone else doing it. Self-management can be used to address questions, such as:

Strategies for Positive Reinforcement

Strategies for Positive Reinforcement

“The way positive reinforcement is carried out is more important than the amount.” – B.F. Skinner

How do we carry out positive reinforcement to make the most impact? Although the principles of positive reinforcement may seem simple, applying them to reduce challenging behavior and increase appropriate behavior often requires a planned, systematic approach.

When Challenging Behavior is Communication

When Challenging Behavior is Communication

Whether it is screaming when a favorite toy is taken away, or dropping to the floor when told “no,” challenging behavior often is about communication.

How do we define challenging behavior so we know when to get extra help? Challenging behavior is repeated behavior that interferes with learning, activities, or social interaction with others. It can have negative long and short-term effects on children, including on learning, social skills, and academic and occupational success.