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Functional Mathematics and Money Skills

Pretend play is a powerful tool in building social pragmatic skills.

Transitioning from a standard checklist to a more play-based, joy-centered approach can make such a massive difference in how students engage and learn.

​Beyond the Checklist: Using Happiness and Play to Guide Effective ABA Sessions by Kathryn Mendoza, LPT, BCBA at the 2nd SEA ABAC

Dr. Lina Slim is both a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) and a Doctor in Behavior Analysis (BCBA-D).

She emphasized that if a child is struggling to turn those sounds into clear words, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) acts a bridge rather than a replacement. We can use the sounds they can produce alongside the signs, picture boards to reduce frustration and increase their "voice."

This is where the SLP and BCBA collaboration becomes vital.

The SLP looks at the mechanics: How is the child producing the sound?

The BCBA looks at the motivation: Why is the child producing the sound?

Together, they ensure that every soundnis captured and shaped into meaningful interaction.

Inspired by Dr. Joshua Jessel’s talk on compassionate ABA at the 2nd SEA ABAC.

The shift from 'managing safety' to 'promoting growth' by ensuring learners are Happy, Relaxed, and Engaged (HRE) is so important. Integrating assent-based procedures isn't just a clinical choice; it's about respect and better outcomes.

So incredibly grateful for the opportunity to meet one of the authors behind Applied Behavior Analysis, William Heward at the 2nd South East Asia Applied Behavior Analysis Conference (SEA ABAC), Cebu City.

We are close today due to Typhoon Basyang.
Stay safe everyone.

Having a consistent "buddy" provides a sense of security. When a child feels safe and included, their anxiety levels drop, making their brain more "ready" to learn and engage.

​When children without autism are encouraged to be "buddies," they also learn incredible lessons in empathy, patience, and diverse communication styles. It’s a beautiful two-way street.

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