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Putting ABA into Practice for YOU

Writer's picture: Adina YankovAdina Yankov

As a Behaviour Analyst, I often hear parents say, "I understand the theory, but what does regulation actually look like in my daily life?" If you've ever wondered how to apply ABA principles to create smoother, more manageable days for both you and your child, you're in the right place! Let’s break this down with practical, real-life examples you can start using today.


Morning Rush: From Chaos to Calm

Trigger: Running late for school drop-off

Old Response: Rushing, raising your voice, increasing stress for everyone


ABA-Based Strategy:

✔️Set Up for Success: Prepare clothes and school items the night before

✔️ Use Visual Supports: A simple morning routine chart can help guide everyone

✔️ Adjust the Environment: Set alarms 15 minutes earlier for smoother transitions

✔️ Practice Self-Regulation: Check your stress level on a scale of 1-5

✔️Use Breathing Strategies: Take three deep breaths when reaching a '3' on the stress scale

✔️ Reinforce Positive Behaviours: Reward yourself with your favourite coffee when you stay calm

✔️ Track Progress: Celebrate successful, low-stress mornings!


Managing Work-From-Home Disruptions

Trigger: Multiple interruptions during an important work call

New Response System:

📍 Set Clear Boundaries: Use a visual "Red Light/Green Light" sign on your office door

📍 Use Timers: A countdown timer helps children understand when you’ll be available

📍 Introduce a Simple Reinforcement System: 5 minutes of uninterrupted work = 5 minutes of special playtime with you

📍 Modify the Environment: Create a designated quiet space, use noise-canceling headphones, and keep fidget toys nearby

📍 Track Progress: Note which strategies work best to help your child respect boundaries


Handling Meltdowns in Public with Confidence

Trigger: Child experiences an intense meltdown in a crowded place

Regulation Strategy:

🎒 Pre-Plan Your Response: Keep a "regulation kit" with items like a stress ball or calming essential oil

🗣️ Use Rehearsed Phrases: Have a few simple, reassuring scripts ready (e.g., "I’m here. You’re safe. Let's breathe together")

🚪 Know Your Safe Spaces: Identify quiet exits or low-stimulation areas in advance🌬️ Practice Body-Based Regulation: Use square breathing (inhale for 4 counts, hold, exhale for 4 counts, hold)

💆 Physical Comfort: Gentle hand massages or shoulder squeezes can help ground your child...and yourself!

🚗 Post-Event Recovery: Take a 5-minute mindfulness break in the car, text a support person, or log triggers and responses for future planning


Creating Daily Regulation Rituals

Tiny moments of self-regulation throughout the day can make a world of difference! Try incorporating these simple strategies into your daily routine:

☀️ Morning:

  • 5-minute stretching routine

  • Positive affirmations while brushing teeth

  • Mindful coffee or tea moment

🌞 Afternoon:

  • 2-minute breathing break between tasks

  • Quick walk around the block

  • Hand massage during phone calls

🌙 Evening:

  • 10-minute decompression ritual

  • Calming sensory activity (warm shower, soft music, dim lighting)

  • Gratitude journal entry


Your Personal Regulation Menu

When stress hits, having a go-to list of strategies can be a game-changer. Try these quick, medium, and long solutions:


Quick Fixes (2-3 minutes):✔️ Wall push-ups✔️ Splash cold water on wrists✔️ Count backward from 100✔️ Hum your favorite song✔️ Progressive muscle relaxation


Medium Breaks (5-10 minutes):✔️ Mindful walking✔️ Journaling✔️ Simple yoga stretches✔️ Listening to a calming playlist✔️ Deep breathing exercises


Longer Solutions (15+ minutes):✔️ Bubble bath✔️ Exercise routine✔️ Hobby time✔️ Social connection✔️ Nature walk


Simple Data Collection to Track Your Progress

You don’t need a complicated system—just a quick note on your phone can help you see patterns over time. Try tracking:

📊 Mood ratings (morning, noon, and night)

📊 Successful regulation moments

📊 Challenging situations you handled well

📊 Physical signs of stress

📊 Sleep quality


Want Professional Support? We’ve Got You Covered!

At Mount Etna Child & Family Services, we specialize in helping parents turn ABA principles into everyday tools for success. Our services include:


✔️ Individual Parent Coaching – Tailored strategies for your family's unique needs

✔️ Group Skill-Building Workshops – Connect with other parents and learn together

✔️ Telehealth Consultations – Flexible support from the comfort of your home

✔️ Customized Regulation Plans – A step-by-step guide just for you


Like any new skill, self-regulation takes practice. Start with just one strategy and build from there—you’ve got this! And remember, you’re not alone. We’re here to support your journey toward calmer, more connected days.


Let’s Hear From You!

What regulation strategy resonates most with you? Have you tried any of these techniques? Share your experience in the comments below!

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*As of July 1st 2024, BCBAs in Ontario registered with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario will now be known as Behaviour Analysts under a protected title, as regulated health professionals.

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