Best Fresh Out Of Tokens Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 60: Is It Positive Reinforcement or Punishment? Let’s Settle the Debate 7:13

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5d ago7:13

7:13

This episode started as a quick Misfit Minute—but it turned into a deep dive, so we made it a full one. Inspired by that iconic Big Bang Theory clip with Sheldon and the chocolates, we break down a question behavior folks love to debate: 👉 Is it positive reinforcement... or positive punishment? We walk through a simple way to understand the four te…

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Misfit Minute #6: How to Teach Replacement Behaviors That Actually Work 1:05

12d ago1:05

1:05

In this bite-sized episode, we dive into a powerful mindset shift: don’t just teach the rule—teach the replacement behavior. Saying “don’t do that” isn’t enough. Real behavior change happens when we teach students exactly what to do instead. 💡 Key Takeaways: 🚫 Saying “don’t do that” doesn’t teach a skill—replacement behaviors do 🔁 Replacement behav…

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Ep. 59: Making Your BIP Work: Data Collection and Fidelity in FBAs - Part 13 of the FBA Mini-Series 17:47

19d ago17:47

17:47

Part 13 (the last step) of the FBA Mini-Series! You’ve got the plan… now let’s make sure it actually works. In this final episode of our FBA Mini-Series, Audra and Sami walk you through how to track behavior data, define roles, build fidelity, and make sure your BIP stays meaningful. This is the wrap-up you didn’t know you needed, filled with pract…

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Misfit Minute #5: Best Clipboards for Data Collection and Token Boards in Special Education 3:08

26d ago3:08

3:08

💡 Key Takeaways: 🖊️ Use a dual-sided clipboard with a whiteboard front and chalkboard back for both data and student visuals 🎯 Turn the chalkboard side into a Velcro token board or quick-reinforcer tracker 🧵 Small quarter-sheet clipboards are perfect for mini data sheets and can be worn on lanyards or fit in your pocket 💼 Clipboards aren't just for…

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Ep. 58: Bridging the Gap: Building Teacher-BCBA Collaboration for Student Success 15:12

1M ago15:12

15:12

🤝 Join Caitlin and Audra as they dive into the crucial topic of fostering strong working relationships between school-based BCBAs and teachers! Learn from their real-world experiences – both successes and challenges – in building mutual respect and understanding for the benefit of students. 💡 It's all about teamwork! Discover how to move beyond pot…

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Misfit Minute #4: Power of Praise: Encouraging Positive Actions in Students 1:14

1M ago1:14

1:14

🎙️ Misfit Minute #4: POWER Up Your Praise – Praising What You Want Repeated Tired of generic praise that doesn't seem to stick? Caitlin highlights the power of behavior-specific praise – telling students exactly what they did well. Learn why focusing your positive attention can cultivate the behaviors you want to see and shift the tone of your clas…

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Ep. 57: Creating a Crisis Cycle Plan in Behavior Support - Part 12 of the FBA Mini-Series 26:07

2M ago26:07

26:07

Planning a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) for high-intensity behaviors? This episode walks you through the 7 stages of the Crisis Cycle—and how to use it as a practical tool in your FBAs and behavior plans. We’re talking real-world escalation, de-escalation, and everything in between: what the student actually does, how staff should respond, and …

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Misfit Minute #3: REDO Your “No” – Turning Redirection Into a Win 2:22

2M ago2:22

2:22

Sick of saying “no” and getting big reactions? Audra shares an easy-to-remember acronym—R.E.D.O.—to help reframe your redirections and get more buy-in from students without the meltdown. 💡 Teach them it’s not “No forever,” it’s “Yes, just not yet.” 🔑 Key Takeaways ✅ R – Reframe the No: Say what they can do instead ✅ E – Engage with Warmth: Invite, …

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Ep. 56: How to Prepare for an IEP Meeting: Timeline, Tips, and Parent Collaboration 16:09

2M ago16:09

16:09

Planning an IEP can feel like a whirlwind—deadlines, data, collaboration, and student needs all rolled into one big meeting. In this episode, Caitlin and Audra walk through a practical timeline for IEP prep, from parent check-ins to drafting goals and reviewing behavior plans. Whether you’re a teacher, BCBA, or case manager, this one’s packed with …

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Misfit Minute #2: W.A.I.T.: The De-escalation Strategy That Starts With Silence 2:12

2M ago2:12

2:12

🎙️ Misfit Minute #2: W.A.I.T. – Why Am I Talking? Sometimes, the most powerful support you can offer during a student’s escalation… is silence. Caitlin introduces the W.A.I.T. strategy ("Why Am I Talking?")—a simple but transformative tool for de-escalation and emotional regulation. 🔑 Key Takeaways ✅ Silence can be a strategy—not avoidance ✅ Extra …

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Ep. 55: How to Reinforce Replacement Behaviors and Respond to Problem Behavior – Part 11 of the FBA Mini-Series 19:17

3M ago19:17

19:17

Continuing on in our FBA-BIP mini-series, we're at Step 11. This week, we’re diving into the consequence side of behavior plans—what to do after students engage in either the challenging behavior or the replacement behavior. It’s not just about preventing problem behavior… it’s about teaching, reinforcing, and responding with consistency and care. …

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Misfit Minute #1: 5 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Teaching 3:02

3M ago3:02

3:02

🎙️ The Misfit Minute #1: 5 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Teaching Welcome to the very first episode of The Misfit Minute — your quick wins podcast series packed with fast, practical tips for educators, BCBAs, and therapists. In this debut episode, Audra shares 5 honest, heartfelt lessons learned the hard way — so you don’t have to. ✨ If you'r…

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Ep. 54: ABA Tools for Tolerance – Haircuts, Doctor Visits & More 16:52

3M ago16:52

16:52

This week, we’re diving into ABA strategies for building tolerance in real-life situations like haircuts, doctor visits, and dental appointments. Many learners with autism and anxiety struggle with these experiences, and traditional approaches like social stories aren’t always enough. We’ll break down how to desensitize fears, use reinforcement eff…

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Ep. 53: Teaching Positive Behaviors – Part 10 of the FBA Mini-Series 9:26

3M ago9:26

9:26

Continuing on in our FBA-BIP mini-series, we're at Step 10! This week, we’re tackling one of the most important steps in behavior intervention planning—choosing the right replacement behavior. Just reducing problem behavior isn’t enough; we have to actively teach what to do instead in a way that’s functional, motivating, and sustainable. 🔑 Key Take…

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Ep. 52: BCBA in Schools vs. Clinics – Pros, Cons, and What to Expect 36:15

4M ago36:15

36:15

Join us as we break down the pros and cons of being a BCBA in a school vs. clinic setting, covering collaboration, job stability, workload, and more! 🔑 Key Takeaways ✅ Team Collaboration Matters – Schools often provide a built-in multidisciplinary team (SLPs, OTs, teachers, etc.), while clinics may have fewer collaboration opportunities. ✅ Family I…

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Ep. 51: Antecedent Strategies in Behavior Plans – Part 9 of the FBA Mini-Series 12:56

4M ago12:56

12:56

In this episode, we break down antecedent strategies—the proactive steps you can take to prevent challenging behaviors before they escalate. We explain how these strategies differ from setting event strategies, why they’re essential in a behavior plan, and how to apply them effectively in real-world settings. 🔑 Key Takeaways ✅ Antecedent vs. Settin…

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Ep. 50: What to Do When You Don’t Know the Function of a Behavior 16:41

5M ago16:41

16:41

Struggling to address aggression in non-vocal learners? In this episode, Audra and Caitlin dive into practical strategies for managing sudden, seemingly random aggressive behaviors. They explore why behaviors might spike, the importance of consistent reinforcement, and how taking a step back can be the key to moving forward. ✨ Key Takeaways 🔄 When …

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Ep. 49: Understanding and Addressing Anxiety in Autism – Strategies for Special Education 20:30

5M ago20:30

20:30

This episode explores the intersection of autism and anxiety, highlighting how to identify and address anxiety-driven behaviors in students with autism through evidence-based, student-centered approaches. ✨ Key Takeaways ✔️ We address a recent Facebook group question about trichotillomania and anxiety. ✔️ Recognizing Anxiety in Autism: Girls with a…

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Ep. 48: How to Create Effective Classroom Schedules for Special Education and ABA Settings 16:27

6M ago16:27

16:27

Creating a classroom schedule for special education and ABA settings can feel like solving a puzzle! In this episode, Caitlin and Audra share their strategies, tips, and tricks to make scheduling manageable and effective for students and staff. From color-coding and post-it notes to balancing para rotations, this episode will help you build a flexi…

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Ep. 47: Managing Paras in Special Education: Building Teamwork, Accountability, and Clear Boundaries 19:28

6M ago19:28

19:28

Working with paras in special education classrooms can be both rewarding and challenging. In this episode, Audra and Caitlin share practical strategies for creating a positive, productive environment for paras, fostering teamwork, and addressing common issues like problem behaviors and resistance to change. ✨ Key Takeaways 📝 Set clear expectations:…

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Ep. 46: Reverse Inclusion in Special Education – Building Peer Connections and Social Skills 24:26

7M ago24:26

24:26

What if inclusion didn’t just mean “pushing students in” but also “inviting peers in”? In this episode, we chat with Megan Stenziano from Moms Managing Behavior about a game-changing approach called reverse inclusion. From lunch and recess to peer buddy programs and after-school activities, Megan walks us through how her school created inclusive, m…

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Ep. 45: Must-Read Behavior Books for Teachers and BCBAs 11:43

7M ago11:43

11:43

In this episode, we’re sharing some of our favorite behavior books for teachers, BCBAs, and parents. From foundational ABA classics to practical sensory guides, we’ll explore resources that equip you with tools to better support your learners! 🎯 Key Takeaways 📚 Build Your Behavior Toolkit: The right books can equip parents, teachers, and behavior a…

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Ep. 44: Understanding Setting Event Strategies in Behavior Plans - Part 8 of the FBA Mini-Series 21:13

7M ago21:13

21:13

In this episode, we are tackling the first step of developing a solid behavior plan after the FBA has been completed and decisions made. Today, let's talk about Setting Event Strategies! Key Takeaways 🧠 What Are Setting Event Strategies? These are long-term adjustments that address factors influencing behavior, such as sleep, nutrition, routines, a…

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Ep. 43: Protecting Vulnerable Populations from Scams | Teaching Boundaries and Internet Safety 12:35

8M ago12:35

12:35

In this episode, we discuss the challenges of protecting vulnerable populations, including aging parents and individuals with autism, from scams. We dive into practical strategies for teaching boundaries, internet safety, and identifying red flags, with examples tailored for different developmental levels. 🎯 Key Takeaways 💡 Scammers thrive on urgen…

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Ep. 42: Conducting a Collaborative FBA Meeting for Behavior Planning Success - Part 7 of the FBA Mini-Series 21:47

8M ago21:47

21:47

🎯 Key Takeaways ✔️ Collaboration is Key: Bringing the family and team together at this stage ensures everyone is on the same page and supports a collaborative approach to behavioral intervention. ✔️ The Importance of the FBA Meeting: The FBA meeting is an essential step to review findings, involve the family, and determine whether a Behavior Interv…

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Ep. 41: Prompt Dependence – Effective Strategies for Building Student Independence 15:42

8M ago15:42

15:42

🎯 Key Takeaways ✔️ Prompt Dependence Defined: Understanding prompt dependence and its impact on students’ ability to act independently. ✔️ Choosing the Right Prompting Strategy: Not all learners benefit from the same prompts! Learn how to assess if most-to-least or least-to-most is right for your learner. ✔️ The Power of the Pause: Pausing before p…

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Ep. 40: IEPs vs. 504 Plans: Key Differences & Practical Tips for Teachers and Parents 21:03

8M ago21:03

21:03

Key Takeaways 📝 Differences Between IEPs & 504 Plans: IEPs offer specialized instruction and services, while 504s provide accommodations to help students access general education. 📊 Eligibility Requirements: IEPs require both a disability diagnosis and educational impact, while 504s only require a documented disability. 👩‍🏫 Parental Advocacy Tips: …

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Ep. 39: Diddy Do it? The P. Diddy Scandal, Power Dynamics, Ethics, and Protecting Vulnerable Individuals 10:48

9M ago10:48

10:48

In this episode, Audra and Sami discuss the ethical implications surrounding the recent P. Diddy scandal, power dynamics in influential figures, and how this ties into our work as behavior analysts and educators. We dive deep into the importance of giving assent to students and clients and why protecting vulnerable individuals—whether in schools or…

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Ep. 38: Crafting Effective Hypotheses and Summary Statements in FBAs - Part 6 of the FBA Mini-Series 15:04

9M ago15:04

15:04

Welcome back to the Misfit Behaviorist Podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, we continue our exploration of Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs) with a focus on the critical data collection process. We dive deep into how to effectively gather, analyze, and interpret data to create meaningful behavior intervention plans (BIPs). Join hosts Audra Jensen and …

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Ep. 37: Data Collection Deep Dive – Part 5 of the FBA Mini-Series 19:08

9M ago19:08

19:08

In this episode, we dive deep into the critical role of data collection within the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) process. Join us as we explore how to transition from anecdotal data to targeted interventions that create meaningful change for students. 🔍 Key Topics Discussed: - Importance of gathering accurate data to inform behavior interven…

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Ep. 36: A Candid Conversation on Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being today 17:58

9M ago17:58

17:58

In this episode, we engage in a heartfelt and important discussion about mental health, suicide, and the impact of grief. Sami shares her personal story of losing her brother to suicide at a young age and reflects on how that experience has shaped her perspective as both an individual and a parent. Trigger Warning: In this episode, we engage in a c…

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Ep. 35: ABC Data Collection for Effective Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) – Part 4 of our Mini-Series 13:07

10M ago13:07

13:07

In this episode, Audra and Sami delve into the essentials of collecting ABC data as part of the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) process. They discuss the significance of understanding antecedents, behaviors, and consequences in identifying patterns that lead to effective behavior interventions. Key Topics: Introduction to ABC Data: Definition …

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Ep. 34: Siblings of Autism: Honest Reflections Growing Up with an Autistic Brother 15:48

10M ago15:48

15:48

🎙 In this special episode, Audra interviews her daughter about growing up with an autistic brother. From navigating childhood to building a unique bond, they dive deep into the joys, challenges, and how autism shaped their family dynamics. Honest, funny, and heartfelt, this episode offers a sibling’s candid (very!) perspective on life with an autis…

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Ep. 33: Direct Observations in FBA Getting the full picture – Part 3 of our Mini-Series 9:46

10M ago9:46

9:46

In this episode of Misfit Behaviorists, we dive deep into the art of conducting thorough and effective Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) observations. 🎯 Learn why it’s crucial to look beyond the student on your radar and understand the behavior of the entire classroom. We'll share tips on how to blend in like a wallflower 🌸 and gather unbiased, …

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Ep. 32: Mastering Initial Interviews in FBA – Part 2 of our Mini-Series 12:38

10M ago12:38

12:38

In this episode of the Misfit Behaviorists podcast, Audra and Sami dive into the second step of the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) process—conducting initial interviews. They discuss how to approach interviews with parents, teachers, and even the student, while maintaining a neutral, empathetic, and objective stance. By focusing on building t…

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Ep. 31: Demystifying the FBA Process mini-series – Part 1 The Referral Process 18:14

10M ago18:14

18:14

In this episode of the Misfit Behaviorist podcast, join hosts Audra Jensen and Sami Brown as they kick off a new mini-series focused on the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) process. Audra and Sami delve into the importance of having a structured referral process, how it helps teachers, and why clear communication with parents is crucial. Discov…

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Ep. 30: Supervising RBTs and ABA Paraprofessionals 17:35

11M ago17:35

17:35

In this episode, we shed some light on what elements are crucial to develop a positive working relationships with RBTs and ABA paraprofessionals. Learn some tips and tricks to use with scheduling and communication to help keep your supervision meetings running smoothly! 🎉 FREEBIE this week: Check out the FB Group for pre-made printable supervision …

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Ep. 29: Functions of Behavior: The WHY more than the WHAT 25:59

11M ago25:59

25:59

In this episode, we highlight why knowing the function of behavior is crucial for effective management: Function vs. Form: The form of behavior (e.g., yelling) is different from its function (e.g., seeking attention or avoiding a task). Four Main Functions: Attention: Behaviors aimed at getting someone’s attention (e.g., a child jumping up and down…

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Ep. 28: Building Relationships with Students as a Public School BCBA 17:26

11M ago17:26

17:26

In this episode, we are chatting about ways to build relationships with students as a public school-based BCBA. 🙌🏼 This can be tricky, given that oftentimes we are getting called in to help with students who are engaging in very challenging behaviors. Learn tips and tricks to build POSITIVE relationships with these learners so that we can connect w…

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Ep. 27: Daily Reports Done Right: Special Ed Teacher's Guide to Parent Communication 22:40

11M ago22:40

22:40

Unlock the power of daily communication! 🗝️ This episode dives into the essential link between special education teachers and families, exploring how open communication boosts student progress and builds a united team. ✅ We cover traditional and digital tools: * Daily/weekly logs📝 * Take-home folders📂 * Email📧 * School communication apps📱 * Online …

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Ep. 26: Independent Activity Schedule 15:27

12M ago15:27

15:27

Today we’re focusing on the Independent Activity Schedule and what a crucial element these are for any autism or ABA classroom! Listen for tips on how to: tailor activities to each individual’s needs. choose between open vs closed ended activities. fade prompts during teaching. infuse rewarding activities into the schedule so that the learner enjoy…

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Ep. 25: Picture This! 📸 Your Ultimate Guide to Task Analysis Visuals 21:20

12M ago21:20

21:20

In this episode, we're all about task analysis visuals! We cover: What they are and why they're important for ALL learners, especially those with autism. Different types of visuals you can use (photos, symbols, even videos!) How to choose the right visuals for your learner’s specific needs Step-by-step instructions on how to create your own task an…

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Ep. 24: Google Forms Data with Heather Cacioppo 18:10

12M ago18:10

18:10

Today we chat with Heather from Full Sped Ahead all about using Google Forms for Data Collections? Got questions about using Forms? She has ALL the answers for you, so you don’t want to miss this one! 🙌🏼 Be sure to check out the digital data collection guide from Heather in the Misfit Behaviorists Facebook group! Join the Facebook group for collabo…

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Ep. 23: Inclusion for Special Education with Guest Dawn Ellis - Building a Culture of Belonging 29:49

1y ago29:49

29:49

In this episode we are joined by Dawn Ellis from the Be the Exception podcast to discuss the importance of inclusion in education. We explore different inclusion models, the benefits of inclusion for all students, and the challenges that schools face in creating truly inclusive classrooms. Listen as we share practical tips and strategies for teache…

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Ep. 22: Crafting IEP Goals for Toilet Training 17:34

1y ago17:34

17:34

We review four different types of toileting IEP goals with tons of examples included! There is no one size fits all when it comes to toilet training, and our goals and data collection should reflect this. Check out our FREE toilet training packet with printable data sheets in our Facebook group! ⬇️ The Misfit Behaviorists | Facebook Join the Facebo…

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Ep. 21: Toilet Training 101: Signs of Readiness, Methods & Tips for Special Needs 24:11

1y ago24:11

24:11

Potty training got you stumped? 🚽 We're breaking down the basics in this episode! Learn to spot signs of readiness, explore different approaches (child-led vs. parent-led), and get tips for handling those inevitable bumps in the road. 🩲 Whether you're starting this summer or just gathering info, this episode is your go-to guide for potty training s…

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Ep. 20: Extended School Year (ESY) Data Collection Tips 18:57

1y ago18:57

18:57

Listen as we chat about ways to streamline data collection for your Extended School Year program! We discuss the merits of printable packets versus digital data trackers. Plus, snag a FREE printable data packet template from our Facebook group! ⬇️ The Misfit Behaviorists | Facebook Join the Facebook group for collaboration and freebies: The Misfit …

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Ep 19: Beat the Summer Slide - ☀️ A Practical Guide for Parents and Teachers 👩‍🏫 24:41

1y ago24:41

24:41

Worried about your child with special needs losing progress over summer break? Don't be! We're tackling the summer slide head-on in this episode. 💪 Discover practical strategies to keep learning fun and engaging, from adapting IEP goals to exciting activities, using tech tools, and even incorporating learning into family vacations. 🏖️ We'll discuss…

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Ep.18: Behavior Management Basics 17:13

1y ago17:13

17:13

Listen for some ‘back to basics' behavior management tips- we offer ideas for fine tuning each strategy when you’re not seeing success! ✨ Grab FREE printable Caught Being Good reward cards this week in our Facebook Group to save you time! ⬇️ The Misfit Behaviorists | Facebook Join the Facebook group for collaboration and freebies: The Misfit Behavi…

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Ep.17: Compassionate Care ABA in School 24:45

1y ago24:45

24:45

This week we explore "compassionate care ABA" and how it works in schools. ❤️ Learn practical strategies to build rapport 🙌, understand triggers 💡, and empower student success 🌱 – all while fostering a positive classroom environment. Compassionate care isn't just about being "nice," it's about applying the science of behavior analysis ethically and…