Behaviorally Speaking artwork

Behaviorally Speaking

46 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 2 months ago -

Board Certified Behavior Analysts Angela Nelson and Kristin Bandi bring together nearly four decades of experience working with children, teens, and their parents. Their knowledge and expertise in implementing Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy has already helped thousands of parents better understand their children and improve everyday behaviors. Behaviorally Speaking focuses on common scenarios most parents face and provides tangible, lighthearted tips and techniques you can use in your own home.

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Episodes

How to Talk to Your Child About Puberty

March 14, 2024 05:00 - 29 minutes - 20.4 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin talk all things puberty! They dive into tips for broaching the topic, fielding those unexpected questions, and reasons why puberty discussions at home are so important for kids’ development. Angela Nelson, EdD, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of both typically developing children as well as children wit...

Talking With Your Child About Their Disability

February 19, 2024 15:00 - 40 minutes - 27.5 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss talking to your child about their disability. They dive into the when, why, and how of navigating these important and ongoing conversations. Angela Nelson, Ed.D, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of both typically developing children as well as children with learning, social, and behavioral challe...

Creating Harmony with Different Parenting Styles

February 01, 2024 14:00 - 43 minutes - 29.7 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin provide an overview of the 4 main parenting styles and discuss pros and cons of each. They dive into strategies to consider if you and your co-parent operate with different parenting styles, and ways to create harmony and collaboration despite those differences. Angela Nelson, EdD, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents and ...

The Ins and Outs of Executive Functioning

December 20, 2023 14:00 - 49 minutes - 34 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin provide an overview of the common executive functioning skills that are important for childhood all the way through adulthood. They explain and give examples of skills such as time management, organization, planning and prioritization, focus and attention, and more. Angela Nelson, EdD, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents ...

Top 2023 Questions from our Listeners

November 28, 2023 13:00 - 43 minutes - 30 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin dive into several questions submitted from their listeners. They answer parents’ questions around creating structure at home, differences in behavior at school vs. with parents, bed wetting, motivation to make friends, teen hygiene, and more. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of both ty...

How Parenting Evolves With a Teenager

October 23, 2023 19:00 - 38 minutes - 26.6 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss how teenagers are not the only ones who go through transitions at this time of their lives. As parents, it’s important to evolve and grow as well. Teenage emotions, motivation levels, stress, and responses to their parents’ expectations are just a few of the topics Angela and Kristin dive into. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They sp...

Prioritizing parental self-care and work/life balance

September 19, 2023 13:00 - 46 minutes - 32 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss the concepts of self-care and work/life balance for parents. They talk about where these concepts came from, their importance, and ways to integrate them into our busy lives. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of both typically developing children as well as children with learnin...

How to Keep Kids Safe

August 22, 2023 17:00 - 47 minutes - 32.3 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss safety tips for parents. From online behavior and strangers to friends and peer pressure, they talk about collaborating with kids to reduce risks and keep kids and teens safe. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of both typically developing children as well as children with learni...

Understanding Neurodiversity

July 21, 2023 14:00 - 46 minutes - 32.3 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin bring in their colleague and resident neurodiversity expert, Louis Chesney, to talk all things neurodiversity. They dive into what the term neurodiversity means, its evolution over time, supporting neurodiverse children, and how neurodiversity is promoted in the workplace for when children grow up. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend ...

How to Address Bullying

June 21, 2023 16:00 - 53 minutes - 36.8 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin talk about the ins and outs of bullying. They break down the different roles kids play in bullying, how to be proactive about it, and what to do when it happens. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of both typically developing children as well as children with learning, social, and behavi...

Teaching Honesty

May 27, 2023 17:00 - 27 minutes - 18.7 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin talk with their colleague and special guest, Kelly, about the concepts of lying and honesty. They discuss what lying is, how to reduce opportunities for lying, and ways to promote more honesty among our kids. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of both typically developing children as wel...

Effective Communication Between Parents and Kids

April 17, 2023 14:00 - 41 minutes - 28.3 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin talk about the different approaches to communication in families and why this is an important topic to dedicate time to. They share several tips to facilitate more clear and positive communication between parents and their kids.   Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of both typically dev...

Stress Management for Kids and Teens

March 28, 2023 15:00 - 43 minutes - 30.2 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin talk about how stress doesn’t just show up in adults but can be felt by kids and teens too. They discuss what stressors are common, what stress looks like at this age, and ways to manage it at home. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of both typically developing children as well as child...

Navigating Special Education

February 23, 2023 21:00 - 46 minutes - 31.7 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin are joined by two guests, Jen and Maria, fellow behavior analysts and trained special educators. Jen and Maria discuss some of the most requested themes by parents, such as navigating school and medical assessments, asking for supports and resources in school, the best ways for parents to can advocate for their children, and much more! Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behav...

Emotional Intelligence For Kids

January 25, 2023 05:00 - 52 minutes - 36.2 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin talk about how parents can help their kids build strong emotional intelligence. They will describe the process of social and emotional learning and give tips on using activities to strengthen social and self-awareness, responsible decision-making, relationship building, and self-management. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their da...

Helping Kids Resolve Conflict

December 17, 2022 19:00 - 41 minutes - 28.3 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin talk about the importance of teaching kids conflict resolution skills. They suggest the prerequisite skills, teaching approaches, and a variety of strategies such as active listening, accepting feedback, taking ownership when you’re wrong, making a sincere apology, finding common ground, among others. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spe...

Helping Kids Make Friends

November 24, 2022 03:00 - 39 minutes - 26.8 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin invite a guest, Pasha Bahsoun, to join and discuss all things friendships. They break down how to support your child to make new friends, when to jump in vs. hang back at playdates or “hang outs,” how to talk with kids about what makes a good friend, and much more. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with parents an...

Preparing for the Holiday Season

October 28, 2022 20:00 - 34 minutes - 23.9 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss setting realistic expectations for the holidays and making the most out of this exciting (and often hectic) time. They give tips for managing stress, capitalizing on teaching skills, setting boundaries with family, remembering healthy habits, being kind to yourself, and more. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days work...

When Your Sibling Has Support Needs

September 27, 2022 15:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin invite guests Mary Grace and Rose to join and discuss their experiences being siblings to young people with support needs. They discuss how their experiences have shaped who they are and give advice to parents on how to balance having children with and without medical or behavioral diagnoses in their home. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. The...

Managing Mom Guilt

August 26, 2022 21:00 - 51 minutes - 35.2 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss a topic that flows below the surface for a lot of moms but isn’t talked about enough- “mom guilt.” They highlight what mom guilt is, where it comes from, and how to manage it. From confronting unrealistic expectations, delegating and asking for help, and setting ourselves up for success, there are several ways to work through this uncomfortable feeling that so many moms experience. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Ce...

Flexible Thinking: An Important Life Skill For Our Kids (and Us Too!)

July 30, 2022 13:00 - 37 minutes - 25.8 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss yet another important skill under the executive functioning umbrella, flexible thinking. They talk about the importance of developing this skill to work with others, keep our cool when it counts, and adapt to new situations- all things that are important now and for the future. From modeling appropriate behavior, creating opportunities to try new things, rewarding flexible thinking, playing logic and strategy games, and more, there are plenty of wa...

Summer Hacks for Moms and Dads

June 21, 2022 15:00 - 43 minutes - 29.6 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss some tips and tricks to a productive summer. From keeping chores, routines, and academics going to making a summer bucket list and anti-boredom jars, parents can integrate some new ideas to make sure summer stays on track while still proving to be a fun time for all! Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with expertise on human behavior and child development. They spend their days working with ...

Reducing impulsive and risky behavior in kids and teens

May 25, 2022 19:00 - 46 minutes - 32.3 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss one of the most frustrating of parenting experiences- dealing with kids and teens’ impulsive behaviors. They dive into tips and strategies from those early behaviors, from grabbing and interrupting, to more risky impulsive behaviors such as unsafe driving habits of some teens. From modeling appropriate behavior, reminders of actions and consequences, using positive reinforcement vs. punishment and more, our listeners will come away with some ideas ...

How to Talk To Your Kids About Mental Health

April 27, 2022 22:00 - 33 minutes - 22.7 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin are joined by Dr. Darren Sush, a clinical psychologist and fellow behavior analyst. Darren shares practical tips with parents around broaching the topic of mental health with our kids and teens. He discusses the importance of normalizing these discussions, prioritizing our own mental health, spotting potential concerns, and more. Today, taking care of our mental health is just as important, and intertwined with, our physical health! Angela Nelson, MS, BCB...

Juggling Parental Stress: It’s About Awareness

March 27, 2022 20:00 - 36 minutes - 24.8 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin are joined by Vicki Westra, the founder of Autism Shifts and mother of a young adult woman with autism. Vicki shares her perspective on parenting stress, how to tackle it by being intentional and aware, and the power of harnessing sources of support. Vicki explains how an acceptance of her daughter has improved her outlook on life and expanded into a career supporting the neurodiversity community with their employment goals. Although not always easy, getti...

Inclusion: Building a Sense of Belonging

February 28, 2022 17:00 - 48 minutes - 33.6 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin are joined by two guests to discuss the very important topic that families should be talking about - inclusion. Nicole Kelly is a well-known disability speaker and openly shares her lived experiences as a person with a disability. Danny Jordan shares his journey as an author of the award-winning series, The Capables, a TV producer, and a dad raising a toddler with a disability. Together, Angela and Kristin get a chance to ask some deep questions many paren...

Goal Setting – Keep it S.M.A.R.T.

January 29, 2022 17:00 - 35 minutes - 24.4 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss the importance of helping kids set achievable goals. They walk parents through how to set SMART goals with their kids, when to talk about goal setting, and remembering who’s goal it really is. They share ideas on how to successfully achieve goals through breaking them down, making them visual, and remembering it’s ok to revise them.  They highlight that barriers may pop up and give insights on how to course correct. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kr...

Let’s Get It Done

December 21, 2021 21:00 - 47 minutes - 32.8 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss how to teach time management and prioritization skills to kids and teens. They walk parents through ideas such as the Time Detective (i.e., how much time you think it takes you to get ready for school vs. how much time it actually does), breaking large tasks into more manageable ones to prevent procrastination, and using those handy-dandy visual supports to support organization. They also infuse some variations of tips for different age ranges, inc...

Let’s Get Going

November 24, 2021 17:00 - 46 minutes - 32.1 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin talk about one of those frustrating parenting scenarios that goes something like this: “Jordan, it’s time to start homework….Jordan, you need to start your homework…Jordan, get going on homework!!” Starting tasks, especially those which are non-preferred, can be hard for kids (and parents too). Homework, chores, and many other things we need our kids to do can cause stress for the family. Angela and Kristin talk about what might be causing this “not gettin...

Let’s talk teens…

October 03, 2021 04:00 - 36 minutes - 24.8 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin are joined by 3 parents of tweens and teens to discuss all things pertaining to parenting teens. Angela and Kristin ask their guests questions to gain insight on the joys, wins, and challenges with this age group. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits.  They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social, and behavioral challenges, or develo...

Resiliency and Growth Mindset: You Got This!

August 27, 2021 22:00 - 51 minutes - 35.8 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin talk about two hot topics in school and parenting- growth mindset and resiliency.  They break down what each concept is and give lots of tips on how to teach these skills to both children and teens. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits.  They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social, and behavioral challenges, or developmental disabil...

Going back to school: How do we do this again?

July 27, 2021 14:00 - 37 minutes - 26.1 MB

On this episode, Angela is joined again by special guest, Jennifer Wilkens, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, to talk about the transition back to school.  Angela and Jen will dive into how to prepare kids socially, emotionally, and academically for being back on campus with peers and educators again.  They will also provide reminders to get to know state, local, and school guidelines around Covid-19 safety as well as tips for getting back into those school routines.  Angela Nelson, MS, B...

Let’s Make It a Habit

May 29, 2021 14:00 - 31 minutes - 22 MB

On this episode, Angela is joined by special guest Jennifer Wilkens, a fellow Board Certified Behavior Analyst, to talk about understanding how habits form, developing healthy habits and creating a framework for them. Angela and Jen will discuss some elements of social/emotional learning, including stress management, goal setting and resilience. You’ll hear ideas for setting goals and creating reward systems for healthy habits and learn how to implement them in your own home. Angela Nelson...

Parenting Siblings: Can’t We Just Get Along?

April 26, 2021 14:00 - 51 minutes - 35.4 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin talk about siblings. They cover the all-too-common fighting, addressing what contributes to fighting and when – or if – to draw the line. Their practical, easy-to-implement advice is geared toward helping promote good, strong relationships. You’ll hear ideas for listening without taking sides, giving siblings the opportunity to resolve their own conflicts and proactively praising positive interactions. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA...

How to Stop Whining: It Starts with Recognition

February 23, 2021 19:00 - 40 minutes - 27.7 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss the steps to recognize, address and eventually stop whining. They break down behavior strategies you can implement to curb this unwelcome behavior and offer alternatives to support your child in getting their needs met. From implementing warnings to recognizing how your own behavior might be playing a role, they uncover it all with their step-by-step techniques. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior An...

Taming Tantrums: Uncovering Why They Happen and Strategies for Change

January 27, 2021 19:00 - 55 minutes - 38.4 MB

On this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss the fine art of tantrums, and why your child might be throwing them. They provide expert tips for identifying the cause and age-appropriate strategies for resolutions you can implement at home. They will walk you through real-life scenarios and help you identify patterns and triggers, so you don’t get stuck in a box trying to solve for the wrong root causes. Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analys...

Let’s Pay Attention! Another Lesson in Executive Functioning

December 23, 2020 15:00 - 49 minutes - 34 MB

Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social or behavioral challenges, or developmental disabilities. In this episode, Angela and Kristin aptly turn their focus to paying attention, one of the key executive functioning skills. Through clinically backed strategies and tips for teaching them, they break down ideas you can implement f...

Let’s Get Organized! A Lesson in Executive Functioning

December 02, 2020 17:00 - 52 minutes - 35.8 MB

Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social or behavioral challenges, or developmental disabilities. In this episode, Angela and Kristin focus on organization, one of the executive functioning skills we often learn as children. Their clinically backed tips and tricks will provide insights into helping you assist your child with ta...

Virtual Learning Report Card: Celebrating Successes & Giving Yourself Grace

September 25, 2020 04:00 - 56 minutes - 38.6 MB

Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social or behavioral challenges, or developmental disabilities. In this episode, Angela and Kristin take a step back to evaluate how virtual school is going – both for them, as parents, and those parents who may still be trying to find successes throughout a still-hectic schedule at the kitchen ...

Focus on Education: Parent-Teacher Collaboration During a Pandemic and Beyond

August 19, 2020 21:00 - 49 minutes - 33.8 MB

Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social or behavioral challenges. In this episode, Angela and Kristin are joined by teachers – and fellow BCBAs – Maria Wilcox, MA, BCBA, and Louise Kennett, MSc, BCBA. They discuss preparing parents for the unusual return to school in 2020 amid the current global pandemic. Maria, a Colorado-base...

Screen Time, Video Games and Social Media

July 22, 2020 17:00 - 54 minutes - 37.3 MB

Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social or behavioral challenges. In this episode, Angela and Kristin discuss screen time, a topic that a lot of parents have been thinking about in recent months. They talk about the different types of screen time – from television and video games to social media and mobile devices – and the pro...

Addressing Your Child’s Sleep and Eating Issues

June 24, 2020 16:00 - 58 minutes - 40.1 MB

Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social or behavioral challenges. In this episode, Angela and Kristin address two concerns many parents face – issues with childhood sleeping and eating. They explore topics ranging from what to do when your child won’t go to bed to how you can introduce new foods into your child’s limited diet. ...

The Ins and Outs of Anxiety

April 22, 2020 21:00 - 45 minutes - 31.3 MB

Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social or behavioral challenges. In this episode of Behaviorally Speaking, Angela and Kristin are joined by special guest Darren Sush, a licensed psychologist and fellow BCBA. This episode’s conversation surrounds The Ins and Out of Anxiety, a topic especially top-of-mind for parents and caregiv...

Positive Reinforcement is Your Friend

March 23, 2020 18:00 - 54 minutes - 37.8 MB

Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social or behavioral challenges. In this episode of Behaviorally Speaking, Angela and Kristin discuss positive reinforcement and the role you can play as a parent. They will guide you through step-by-step instructions to introduce positive reinforcement and tools to evaluate you and your child’s...

The Basics of Behavior: The Why and What To Do About It

February 21, 2020 16:00 - 49 minutes - 33.9 MB

Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social or behavioral challenges. In this episode of Behaviorally Speaking, Angela and Kristin break down the basics of behavior. They will explain how to set a baseline and guide you through helpful information to positively change the behavior of your child or loved one. As they explain, behavi...

Staying Consistent as a Parent

January 16, 2020 23:00 - 41 minutes - 28.6 MB

Angela Nelson, MS, BCBA, and Kristin Bandi, MA, BCBA, are Board Certified Behavior Analysts with Rethink Benefits. They spend their days working with parents and caregivers of children with learning, social or behavioral challenges. In this inaugural episode of Behaviorally Speaking, Angela and Kristin share five tips to help you stay consistent with parenting in the coming year. By staying consistent, you empower yourself while establishing credibility with your children. They will help you...