Our children are quick to learn what behaviors get their needs met… Think about it🤔 Antecedent (trigger): I want something Behavior (what I do/say): Whining Consequence (the response): Parent says, “What do you want?” Pretty effective, right? In those moments our kids learn that “crying/whining produces something for me and gets my needs met. I’ll do that again in the future the next time I want something.” Instead, teach your child a replacement behavior that serves the same exact function as crying/whining— just have them say you name! That’s it! And that is easier than whining! Score! HOWEVERRRR… IF you know what your child wants, skip that step and just prompt them to say the name of the item/activity. This is a valuable skill to teach early. Without it, toddlers often default to whining to communicate, reinforcing that habit over time. PS: If you were wondering what Grace (14 months) had to tell me in the video, it was “poon” (she wanted to show me her spoon). My Practical Parenting: No Fluff, Just Results course has a module on teaching your child to communicate that is specific for babies and toddlers. Have a child who is a little older but just asks for things using challenging behavior? There’s a module on that, too! DM me “READY” if you’re prepared to help your child communicate without relying on challenging behaviors to get their needs met. #aba #appliedbehavioranalysis #behavior #parenting #parentsofinstagram #positiveparenting #parentingtips #parents #languagemilestones #behaviormanagement #parentsupport #momssupportingmoms #language #momsofinstagram #parenttraining #parent #bcba #babytalk #parentingishard #parentcoach #toddlertantrums #toddlermom #toddlermomlife #behavioranalysis #behavioranalyst #behaviors #parentingjourney #parentsbelike #teachersofinstagram #parenthood #parentsoftiktok #toddlersoftiktok #babiesoftiktok

Here’s what Sophia is NOT going to do ⤵️ Me: “Well, if you listened the first time I wouldn’t have to repeat myself.”  Sophia: “Excellent point, Mom! In the future, I will be sure to listen immediately the first time you ask!”  One of my favorite authors, Glen Latham once said, “Unless what you are about to say or do has a high probability of making things better, don’t say it and don’t do it.”   Responding to Sophia when she talked back would have done absolutely nothing to help the situation and, in fact, would have simply reinforced her behavior, as there is nothing more valuable than parental attention. In the end, Sophia ended up doing what I asked her to. I know this is extremely mild behavior, but these are the kinds of moments that, if we focus on– can easily get shaped into more challenging issues in the future.  What’s the moral of the story? Be slow to pay attention to behavior that gets under your skin. It comes with the territory of growing up and when left alone, will usually fade away with time due to lack of attention.  And remember, nothing is more valuable than your attention. Our children adjust their behavior based on what we value, prioritize, and focus on. Comment READY if you are prepared for easier days without the power struggles. #aba #appliedbehavioranalysis #behavior #parenting #parentsofinstagram #positiveparenting #parentingtips #toddlers #toddlersofinstagram #parentsupport #momssupportingmoms #momsofinstagram #parenttraining #parent #bcba #rbt #parentcoach #toddlertantrums #toddlermom #toddlermomlife #behavioranalysis #behavioranalyst #behaviors #parentingjourney #parentsbelike #parenthood #parentsoftiktok #toddlersoftiktok #kidsoftiktok

Let me fill you in on one little secret every parent should know ⤵️ Instead of saying, “Use your words,” “Ask me nicely,” or making your child use a full sentence like, “Mommy, can you please get me some chips?” tell them exactly what to say. Teaching replacement behaviors must be easier or require the same effort as the problem behavior. And behaviors like whining, saying “No!!!!!” or hitting are prettttayyyyy prettttayyyyy easy for a child to do. If we make the replacement behavior too effortful, they will resort back to the problem behavior, and no one wants that 🙄 👎. The examples above can draw out the situation by delaying access to what your child wants AAANND bring attention to the challenging behavior. When we tell our children exactly what to say, we make it effortless for them. So DM me READY and I’ll tell you the exact strategy my clients use like… 💬 Lindsey, who said “instead of reacting to our son’s frustration, he is learning positive alternatives, and he’s learning to communicate the right way instead of challenging behavior.” 👏C, who said, “I was really worried about my 29-month-old toddler’s tantrums, whining, and constant screaming. However, after learning exactly what to say and do, those concerns are completely gone. Now, I see so much positive change in my son’s behavior, especially when he expresses himself without crying or whining, and I feel so much more confident as a parent. It’s been a total transformation for me. Thank you!” Syreeta who said, “I’m slowly making my way through the course but started implementing your tools the VERY FIRST DAY and saw results! So grateful for the information you provide!” #aba #appliedbehavioranalysis #behavior #parenting #parentsofinstagram #positiveparenting #parentingtips #toddlers #toddlersofinstagram #behaviormanagement #parentsupport #momssupportingmoms #momsofinstagram #parenttraining #parent #bcba #rbt #parentcoach #toddlertantrums #toddlermom #toddlermomlife #behavioranalysis #behavioranalyst #behaviors #parentingjourney #parentsbelike #parenthood

Parent: My kids refuse to listen to ANYTHING! Me: Do they know what your expectations are? Parent: I think so. Me: Well, did you tell them? Parent: No. That's a common exchange I have with parents (and teachers!). But here’s the thing: more often than not, we think our kids should JUST KNOW what to do because it’s common sense, but guess what? There's a good chance they don't! And don't get me wrong—I used to assume the same thing before I learned about behavior analysis. Why do I have to be explicit about what I expect?! Are you serious? What a waste of time. Let me reframe your thinking here: the amount of time you think you are losing in clearly communicating your expectations and consequences, you will lose when your child doesn't follow them, and now you have to spend even more time managing the aftermath of their behavior. Think of it as an investment in smoother interactions and less chaos. ➡️ DM me TOOLKIT for a free mini-crash course video on 4 things every parent must know to make their life easier. #aba #appliedbehavioranalysis #behavior #parenting #parentsofinstagram #positiveparenting #parentingtips #toddlers #toddlersofinstagram #behaviormanagement #parentsupport #momssupportingmoms #momsofinstagram #parenttraining #parent #bcba #rbt #parentcoach #toddlertantrums #toddlermom #toddlermomlife #behavioranalysis #behavioranalyst #behaviors #parentingjourney #parentsbelike #parenthood

This is one of our favorite morning meeting activities! This game is also perfect for preschool or kindergarten centers to help build phonemic awareness in a fun and interactive way— I even had to buy one for home—my daughters love playing school with it.  #aba #appliedbehavioranalysis #teachersofinstagram #teacher #teaching #speech #teachersofig #teachersofinsta #elementaryteacher #sped #specialed #specialeducation #specialeducationteacher #specialeducator #communication #newteacher #teachertips #teachertraining #teachersupport #morningmeeting #behavioranalysis #teachersbelike #phonemicawareness #positiveparenting #siblinglove #parenting #teachersoftiktok #parentsoftiktok #toddlersoftiktok #kidsoftiktok #Joycat #joycattoys #joycateducationaltoys #joycatlearningtoys @Joycatofficial

Important things to remember when your child refuses to leave a fun activity: 1. Stay calm. Try not to meet your child at their level of frustration or anger. We are showing them how we respond in moments of difficulty, and that should be done with direction and support (I know, I know— easier said than done). 2. Refrain from offering your child something good to encourage them to do what they are refusing. That would teach them that refusing to do things results in positive outcomes. 3. Avoid yelling. Try to remember that they are children and in the process of learning. Additionally, yelling provides a lot of attention for problem behavior. And there’s nothing better than our attention—positive or negative! 4. Do not remove the instruction just because they are refusing. There will be many times in their life when they don’t want to stop or leave a fun activity, but it’s not always an option to let them stay. 5. Pay attention to your child when they do what you ask. It may not seem like a big deal, and it may feel like something they should just do because “you said so,” but the behaviors you pay attention to are the behaviors you will see more of. DM me TOOLKIT for a free mini crash course video on 4 crucial strategies every parent must know to make their life easier. #aba #appliedbehavioranalysis #behavior #parenting #parentsofinstagram #positiveparenting #parentingtips #toddlers #toddlersofinstagram #behaviormanagement #parentsupport #momssupportingmoms #newmom #momsofinstagram #parenttraining #parent #bcba #rbt #parentingishard #parentcoach #toddlertantrums #toddlermom #toddlermomlife #behavioranalysis #behavioranalyst #behaviors #parentingjourney #parentsbelike #teachersofinstagram #parenthood

Want to know a secret? 🤫⤵️ There is nothing more valuable than parental attention— whether positive or negative, our kids will go to great lengths to get it! And here's the thing: understanding how to use this attention can be a game changer. Want to know another secret? Our kids learn what behaviors get our attention by what we choose to focus on. If we always focus on what our kids should NOT be doing (such as whining, fighting, trying to annoy you on purpose, etc), then those are the behaviors that will inevitably increase.  For example, in this video from a few months ago, Grace decided that she wanted to be a NYC Rockette. Was it the end of the world ? Nope. But I wasn’t willing to give the behavior what it wanted: attention. Instead, I continued changing her diaper and doused her with attention when she stopped kicking. And guess what happened? Grace learned that kicking produced nothing and as a result, she came forward with a more appropriate request for my attention (she asked me to sing).  As parents, we tend to be very quick to respond to our children when they are misbehaving, but we're not as immediate in recognizing when they follow directions. So, what happens? They engage in the behavior that has the biggest payoff. Had I focused on the leg kicking, that would have been the clear winner.  So what can we do instead? Let go of the trivial behaviors that get under our skin and start paying attention to the good stuff. Comment RESULTS for 3 strategies you can implement in your home today for a positive shift.  #aba #appliedbehavioranalysis #behavior #parenting #parentsofinstagram #positiveparenting #parentingtips #toddlers #toddlersofinstagram #behaviormanagement #parentsupport #momssupportingmoms #newmom #momsofinstagram #parenttraining #parent #bcba #rbt #parentingishard #parentcoach #toddlertantrums #toddlermom #toddlermomlife #behavioranalysis #behavioranalyst #behaviors #parentingjourney #parentsbelike #teachersofinstagram #parenthood #parentsoftiktok #toddlersoftiktok #toddlertok #parenttok #fyp #foryou

I'll never stop talking about this… Although it may feel good at the moment to do things that stop our children from crying, whining, or engaging in problem behavior, those actions can have significant implications in the future. I'm talking about the bargaining, pleading, yelling, threatening, and reasoning we often resort to. It's okay to hold boundaries and stick to our word—even if our children cry or get upset, it's part of their learning process. If we constantly resort to those strategies, our children learn that problem behavior is an effective way to get what they want. In the heat of the moment, it can be hard to see, but sometimes less is more! When our children are distressed, the strategies I mentioned often don’t resonate with them. So, what should we do instead? This requires time and patience, but strive to remain calm. A composed demeanor provides a sense of security and stability, reassuring your child that everything is under control, even when they're upset. And remember, just because your child has a meltdown doesn’t mean they are trouble. It’s part of growing up! It’s also okay for us to make mistakes. This is not easy, but the more we remain calm and practice— the easier it gets. Remember, the same child who is laying on the floor crying is the same child you just hugged and tickled and hour ago. It’s just a moment in time. #aba #appliedbehavioranalysis #behavior #parenting #parentsofinstagram #positiveparenting #parentingtips #parents #behaviorchange #behaviormanagement #parentsupport #momssupportingmoms #newmom #momsofinstagram #parenttraining #parent #bcba #rbt #parentingishard #parentcoach #toddlertantrums #toddlermom #toddlermomlife #behavioranalysis #behavioranalyst #behaviors #parentingjourney #parentsbelike #teachersofinstagram #parenthood #parentsoftiktok #toddlersoftiktok #fyp #foryou

It’s quite common for toddlers to express reluctance towards certain tasks. You’ve probably encountered this scenario: you need your toddler to cooperate, but they resist. It’s a classic situation, am I right!? But don’t worry, as it’s a normal part of growing up! In such moments, use your leverage wisely and withhold privileges until they do what you ask them to. This entails clearly communicating your expectations and consequences. Use a neutral tone of voice, and don’t ask them to do it— as that gives them the opportunity to say no. While I know this is easier said than done, do your best to try and stay calm and not to draw too much attention to what is happening— as nothing is more valuable than parental attention! Here are some other examples of moments your toddler may refuse to do something, but you have leverage: Situation: They want to go outside but won’t wear their jackets. Solution: Don’t let them go outside until their jacket is on. Situation: They want to use a new toy but won’t clean up. Solution: They can’t play with new toys until they clean up. Most importantly, reinforce your child when they engage in the appropriate behavior! Any time we want a behavior to increase or continue, it must be met with reinforcement! #aba #appliedbehavioranalysis #behavior #parenting #parentsofinstagram #positiveparenting #parentingtips #toddlers #toddlersofinstagram #behaviormanagement #parentsupport #momssupportingmoms #newmom #momsofinstagram #parenttraining #parent #bcba #rbt #parentingishard #parentcoach #toddlertantrums #toddlermom #toddlermomlife #behavioranalysis #behavioranalyst #behaviors #parentingjourney #parentsbelike #teachersofinstagram #parenthood #parentsoftiktok #parenttok #fyp #foryou #toddlersoftiktok #toddlertok

It’s typical for toddlers to explore areas they shouldn’t or use items in unsafe ways as they’re still learning boundaries. It’s a normal part of their development as they figure out acceptable behavior (even though it may drive us crazy 🤪). While playing at the library, my 22-month-old daughter, Grace, unexpectedly put a tiny Lego piece in her mouth. Here’s how I handled the situation and some tips if you are facing similar challenges with your children. 1. Calmly approach them in a neutral tone of voice and let them know what they need to stop doing. Try to phrase it positively— for example, instead of saying, “Don’t do that,” I said, “Spit it out.” 2. Provide them with an option or two for what they should do instead. This part is important and often skipped! 3. Tell them what will happen if they don’t follow through. 4. Very important! If they follow through, reinforce them! If they don’t, remove the item (or remove them from the location). It’s crucial not to issue multiple warnings and only take action after the fifth time your child doesn’t listen. This can convey inconsistency in your words and actions, leading your child to believe you don’t mean what you say. As a result, they may continue the behavior you’ve asked them to stop. Give this a ♥️ if this was helpful and don’t forget to follow @ABAnaturally for more behavior tips. #aba #appliedbehavioranalysis #behavior #parenting #parentsofinstagram #positiveparenting #parentingtips #toddlers #toddlersofinstagram #behaviormanagement #parentsupport #momssupportingmoms #newmom #momsofinstagram #parenttraining #parent #bcba #rbt #parentingishard #parentcoach #toddlertantrums #toddlermom #toddlermomlife #behavioranalysis #behavioranalyst #behaviors #parentingjourney #parentsbelike #teachersofinstagram #parenthood #parentsoftiktok #parenttok #toddlersoftiktok #toddlertok #fyp #foryou