128 | ACT and neurodiversity affirming approaches in ABA with Unfurling Littles

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay hosts Maggie of Unfurling Littles and explores Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) lens. They discuss how to incorporate neurodiversity-affirming practices into ABA to create a compassionate, child-led approach. Maggie shares her journey into the field, her own lived experience as an autistic individual, and practical examples of how ACT principles can be applied within ABA for the benefit of both children and their families. The episode also addresses common concerns about traditional ABA and offers insights on fostering mindful play and regulation.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview00:46 Guest Introduction: Maggie from Unfurling Littles02:33 Maggie's Journey into Early Childhood Special Education03:43 Challenges and Criticisms of ABA06:28 Maggie's Personal Neurodivergence Story08:29 Founding Unfurling Littles and Professional Challenges10:59 Navigating ABA and Neurodiversity Affirming Practices14:38 Introduction to ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)16:39 Implementing ACT in Family and Child Goals21:26 Balancing Family and Child Values in Therapy27:08 Practical Applications of ACT in Therapy29:25 Measuring Engagement and Joy in Child Interactions29:59 Integrating Child-Led Approaches in Therapy30:27 Present Moment Awareness and Neurodiversity Affirming Practices32:04 Mindfulness in Neurodiversity Affirming Care34:16 Handling Dysregulation with ACT Principles36:32 The Importance of Validating Emotions40:41 Healing Through Neurodiversity Affirming Practices44:33 The Evolution and Future of ABA50:49 Connecting with Families and Resources52:45 Final Thoughts and Next StepsRESOURCES⚡️ connect with Maggie on Instagram @unfurling_littles and her website https://www.unfurlinglittles.com⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tayNote: PDA is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110