Summary

In this powerful mashup episode of the All About Kids podcast, we explore key insights on sensory diets, behavior management, and the intersection of technology and child development. Featuring highlights from expert therapists like Jen (Occupational Therapy), Sandy (Applied Behavior Analysis), and more, this episode dives deep into real-world solutions for common challenges faced by parents, educators, and clinicians. You’ll hear stories about teaching parents to become detectives in their child’s life, setting boundaries around technology, and understanding the “why” behind behaviors—whether it’s sensory overload or the craving for attention. If you’re navigating tantrums at Target, screen time battles, or wondering when to reward vs. redirect, this mashup brings you practical tools, empathy, and encouragement straight from the frontlines of child development.

 

KEY MOMENTS

1. Jen on Technology & Sensory Diets

• Tech is a “necessary evil”—useful but not a replacement for real-world sensory input.
• “You’re not going to get the same kind of input from a device as you get from sand, snow, cardboard, or paint.”
• Key insight: Use tech mindfully. Look for red flags like meltdowns when it’s taken away.

2. Creating Sensory Diets at Home

• Parents can log behaviors to detect patterns and triggers without an OT.
• “Just like allergies—you don’t try 10 things at once. Start slow, track responses.”
• Exposure is everything: music, textures, outdoor play, variety.

3. Sandy on Behavior as Communication

• Behavior is never random—there’s always a “why.”
• “A tantrum is often a message. You just don’t speak the language yet.”
• She breaks down the 4 functions of behavior: Escape, Attention, Tangible, Sensory.

4. The Supermarket Candy Meltdown Example

• A child screams for candy, the parent gives in = behavior is reinforced.
• “If it works, it will continue to happen.”
• Proactive tip: offer rewards for calm shopping before the meltdown begins.

5. Rethinking Punishment

• Punishment doesn’t teach replacement skills.
• “Timeouts teach nothing. Embed learning in the moment.”
• Real change comes from modeling the right behavior, not shaming the wrong one.

6. The Power of Motivation in ABA

• Sandy emphasizes fun: “Be the biggest reinforcer in the room.”
• “Use the blocks they love, the songs they sing—learning should feel like play.”
• Music and movement are especially effective for imitation and engagement.

7. Parenting Without an OT or ABA Provider

• Teach parents to be detectives: track, observe, ask questions, connect the dots.
• “What time does the meltdown happen? Is it sensory? Medical? Behavioral?”
• Build a shared strategy across caregivers for real results.

8. Timers, Turn-Taking & Tools

• Timers help build patience and fairness: “When the timer goes off, it’s your turn.”
• Tools like this reduce anxiety and help kids learn social timing.
• “Eventually they start asking you to set the timer.”

 

TAKEAWAYS

For Parents:
• Behavior is communication—start asking what your child is really trying to say.
• If tech is melting down your routine, track it. Use it with purpose, not as default.
• Play is a job. Sand, music, water, and mud are better teachers than screens.

For Clinicians & Educators:
• Motivation drives everything. Pair yourself with fun and trust will follow.
• Embed therapy in play, routines, and what the child already loves.
• Replace “No, don’t!” with “Let me show you how.”

For Aspiring Therapists:
• ABA isn’t about rigid chairs and drills—it’s about relationships, flexibility, and joy.
• Learn to spot the iceberg beneath the behavior. That’s where real change happens.
• Start small, be consistent, and never underestimate the power of a good playlist.

 

 

About All About Kids:

AAK, the leading provider of children’s therapeutic and educational skills in New York. Their team of experts offer diagnostic evaluations as well as direct and consultative behavioral intervention services to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. After comprehensive assessment, each child has a portfolio or program book designed specifically to meet his or her individualized needs. The quality of our ABA services are closely monitored through program and field supervision as well as ongoing consultation by BCBA’s/BCaBA’s, and Experienced Team Leaders. 

Click here for a link to comprehensive educational and support resources. Previous podcast episodes and more information about All About Kids is available here.

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