How does sleep impact learning, emotional regulation, and overall behavior in children with autism, ADHD, and anxiety?

Join us as we explore SLEEP with Nicole Shallow, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and expert in sleep consultation who shares transformative insights and practical strategies for parents and BCBAs.

Relevant Links:

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.

Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Nicole Shallow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourbehaviourgal/?hl=en

Visit Nicole Shallow’s website: https://www.yourbehaviourgal.com/

Join Nicole Shallow's Sleep Competency Program: https://www.yourbehaviourgal.com/sleep-competency-program

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What are the most common sleep challenges for children with autism, ADHD, and anxiety?
• How does sleep deprivation affect learning and emotional regulation?
• What practical steps can parents and BCBAs take to improve children's sleep habits?
• How do nutrition, physical activity, and screen time influence sleep quality?
• What tools and resources are available to address teen sleep challenges?

Discussion Points:

• Nicole Shallow’s journey into the field of sleep consultation.
• Understanding common sleep issues in children with autism and ADHD.
• The critical link between sleep, learning, and emotional regulation.
• Assessment methods and individualized approaches to sleep plans.
• Practical tips for creating effective bedtime routines and addressing sleep dependencies.
• The role of nutrition, physical activity, and screen time in sleep quality.
• Specific challenges and strategies for improving teen sleep habits.

Nicole Shallow shares her expertise as a BCBA specializing in sleep consultation, focusing on the unique challenges faced by children with autism, ADHD, and anxiety. She explains the importance of individualized sleep plans and the connection between sleep, behavior, and emotional regulation. Nicole provides actionable tips for parents and practitioners to address common sleep issues, such as delayed sleep onset and night waking. She also highlights the impact of nutrition, physical activity, and screen time on sleep, while introducing her cohort program designed to train BCBAs in sleep support.

About The Guest:

Nicole Shallow is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst based in Vancouver, British Columbia, specializing in sleep consultation and support for children with autism, ADHD, and anxiety. Her work focuses on creating customized sleep plans and training other BCBAs to incorporate sleep support into their practice.

Key Takeaways:

1. The importance of sleep: Quality sleep is essential for learning, emotional regulation, and overall behavior in children.
2. Individualized sleep plans: Tailoring...

In this episode of My BCBA Life, Penina from Circle Care Services introduces the podcast’s mission to support BCBAs worldwide. Joined by guest Anthony Fager (AJ), an experienced BCBA, they explore the journey into ABA, the importance of mentorship, strategies for self-care, and the evolving role of technology and AI. Anthony shares actionable advice for new and seasoned BCBAs alike, focusing on simplifying processes, overcoming imposter syndrome, and integrating ACT principles for professional and personal growth.

Relevant Links:

Access your CEU Certificate by filling out THIS form.

Join our fast-growing BCBA Community by signing up HERE.

Are you a BCBA looking for a job? Apply HERE.

• What challenges do BCBAs face in their daily roles, and how can they overcome them?
• How can mentorship and ACT principles shape a successful BCBA career?
• What tools and systems can BCBAs use to manage clinical and administrative tasks effectively?
• How will AI and technology impact the future of ABA practice?

Penina and Anthony dive into the nuances of working as a BCBA, from the daily challenges to long-term professional growth. Anthony reflects on his journey into ABA, highlighting the importance of mentorship in overcoming imposter syndrome. He provides practical advice for balancing multiple roles, including the use of templates and systems to streamline tasks. Self-care emerges as a central theme, with actionable tips for maintaining balance and avoiding burnout. The discussion concludes with an insightful look at the potential for AI and technology to revolutionize the field of ABA.

Anthony Fager (AJ) is a seasoned BCBA with extensive experience in ABA therapy. Known for his practical approach to clinical challenges and passion for mentorship, Anthony is committed to helping others grow in their careers while maintaining a balanced life. He advocates for integrating ACT principles into daily practice to enhance both professional and personal outcomes.

1. Mentorship Matters: Seek guidance to grow your skills and overcome imposter syndrome.
2. Streamline Your Work: Use templates and systems to manage tasks efficiently.
3. Prioritize Self-Care: A sustainable career requires balance and attention to personal well-being.
4. Embrace ACT Principles: Use these tools to navigate daily challenges and foster resilience.
5. Look Ahead: Stay informed about AI and technology trends to prepare for future changes in ABA practice.

00:00 Welcome to My BCBA Life

00:58 Meet Anthony Fager: A Journey into ABA

03:32 Diving into the Field: Early Experiences

04:50 Challenges and Realizations in ABA

08:45 Daily Life of a BCBA

12:38 Maximizing Your Role as a BCBA

13:55 Mentorship and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

26:24 Balancing Clinical and Administrative Tasks

27:41 Effective Systems and Processes

31:16 The Importance of Self-Care

37:50 Future of BCBA with AI and Technology

50:00 Final Thoughts and Tips for BCBAs

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