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Parent Burnout: How to Recognize It and What to Do About It
Parent burnout is real, human, and far more common than most people admit. It’s a deep exhaustion that builds when the demands of parenting outweigh the support available. Noticing the signs, offering yourself care instead of judgment, and taking small steps to rebuild support, rest, and joy can make a meaningful difference. You deserve compassion, replenishment, and space to breathe as you care for your child and yourself.

Shelby Nelson
Dec 10, 20255 min read


Discrete Trial Training vs. Naturalistic Teaching: Which is Best?
At Essential Speech and ABA Therapy, we use both Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Naturalistic Teaching (NET) to help each child thrive. DTT builds strong foundational skills through structured, step-by-step learning, while NET uses play and real-life motivation to promote communication and independence. Together, they create a balanced, personalized approach that meets your child where they are and helps them grow with confidence.

Jasmine McCaskey
Nov 18, 20252 min read


Reinforcement at Home: What It Is and Why It Works
Parenting a neurodivergent child comes with unique challenges—but reinforcement can make a world of difference. Grounded in behavioral science, reinforcement strengthens positive behaviors through meaningful rewards and recognition. By using praise, play, and consistency, parents can replace frustration with connection, helping children grow in independence, confidence, and emotional understanding.

Shelby Nelson
Nov 3, 20256 min read


Data Collection in ABA: What Parents Should Know
Data collection in ABA therapy isn’t just about numbers—it’s about understanding your child’s progress. By tracking behaviors and skills, therapists can make informed decisions, adjust strategies, and ensure treatment is personalized and effective. Each data point represents growth, helping your child learn, communicate, and thrive through a plan designed just for them.

Jasmine McCaskey
Oct 17, 20254 min read


Making Halloween a Treat for Children with ASD
Help kids with autism enjoy Halloween: prepare in advance, choose comfy costumes, take breaks if needed, and stay patient. Have fun!

Essential Speech and ABA Therapy
Oct 9, 20252 min read


What a BCBA Actually Does (And How We Support Them)
A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) plays a vital role in your child’s ABA therapy journey. While RBTs deliver daily sessions, the BCBA designs goals, tracks progress, and provides guidance to ensure therapy is effective and personalized. From assessments and program oversight to caregiver training and problem-solving, BCBAs are the clinical leaders driving meaningful progress. At Essential Speech and ABA Therapy, we support our BCBAs so they can best support your child

Jasmine McCaskey
Oct 8, 20252 min read


Autism-Friendly Halloween Activities
Create a sensory-friendly Halloween for children with ASD with these fun, safe activities like trunk-or-treat, crafts, and zoo visits!

Essential Speech and ABA Therapy
Oct 1, 20252 min read


5% Supervision: Why Does It Matter?
In ABA therapy, 5% supervision means a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) directly oversees at least 5% of your child’s therapy hours each month. This time isn’t just observation—it involves coaching, reviewing progress, adjusting goals, and ensuring treatment stays individualized and effective. At Essential Speech and ABA Therapy, we treat 5% as the minimum, going beyond requirements to provide consistent, high-quality support that helps your child thrive.

Jasmine McCaskey
Sep 11, 20252 min read


Natural Environment Teaching (NET): Why Play is Powerful
At Essential Speech and ABA Therapy, we use Natural Environment Teaching (NET) to make learning fun and meaningful. Instead of relying only on flashcards, we embed teaching moments into play, snack time, or outdoor activities. By following a child’s interests, NET helps build communication, social, problem-solving, and flexibility skills in real-world settings—making therapy engaging, effective, and something children look forward to.

Jasmine McCaskey
Sep 2, 20252 min read
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