As BCBAs, we all understand the importance of consistency  — it’s the cornerstone of effective ABA programming. But when it comes to nap times in center-based settings, things can start to feel a little… unpredictable. You’ve probably seen it: Kids running around during “designated nap time.” Others falling asleep mid-programming. Or making it through the entire day, only to crash hard on the car ride home. Managing naps in a group setting can be tricky, especially when each

When it comes to improving sleep, there’s one truth that I’ve seen play out time and time again— it takes a team . As behavior analysts, we bring a unique perspective on environmental variables, reinforcement, and routines. But when it comes to sleep, the story is much bigger than behavior alone. Collaborating with other professionals isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for giving families the best possible outcomes. Let’s talk about what that can look like in practice. Collabo

Halloween can be so much fun — costumes, candy, and memory-making galore. But it can also bring sensory overload, sugar highs, and bedtime chaos. Whether you’re a parent or a professional supporting families, here are some simple, proactive strategies to make this spooky season a little smoother. 🍬 1. Set Candy Limits Ahead of Time We’ve all been there — the pillowcase full of candy, the sugar crash, and the negotiation over “just one more.” Instead, set expectations before

If you’ve ever found yourself scratching your head trying to “figure out the function” of a child’s sleep problems, you’re not alone. But here’s the thing — sleep is a biological process.  It’s not something we can turn on or off through reinforcement or extinction alone. So when we jump straight into analyzing the ABCs (Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence) of bedtime challenges, we’re often missing a huge part of the picture. Sure, we might identify that a child leaves their r

Let’s face it. Insurance companies can be, well... particular. And by “particular,” I mean that sometimes it feels like you could submit the most beautifully written, data-backed goal in existence, and it still gets kicked back with a note that says something like: “Sleep isn’t medically necessary.” Hmm. While we can’t guarantee every goal will make it past the approval gatekeepers, we can  stack the odds in our favor by following a few simple rules of thumb. 1️⃣ You Don’t Ev

I just got back from an amazing trip out west with my family. We hiked, stargazed, and ate way too much delicious food. But as much as I...