When you start your first BCBA caseload, it’s common to wonder what actually belongs in a BCBA starter kit. With so many materials out there, it can be hard to know what’s essential versus what just adds clutter. In this episode, we break down the core components of a BCBA starter kit that truly support effective practice: the tools that make sessions smoother, teaching more engaging, and data collection manageable in real-world settings.
We walk through the essentials we rely on every day, starting with assessments that help build a strong foundation. We share why beginner assessments like the ABLLS-R, VB-MAPP, and our own How to ABA Initial Assessment are go-to tools for understanding learner strengths and guiding programming. From there, we talk about keeping data collection simple so you can stay present with your learner—using practical tools like tally counters, notebooks, clipboards, and color-coded sticky notes.
We also dive into the teaching and reinforcement tools that round out a well-designed BCBA starter kit, including our favorite reinforcers and flashcard sets from Different Roads to Learning, along with visual supports, timers, and token boards that promote motivation, independence, and clarity during sessions. Whether you’re brand new to the field or refining your current toolkit, this episode offers a practical, experience-based look at what belongs in a BCBA starter kit—and why it matters.
What’s Inside:
- Assessments that give you a clear baseline
- Simple data tools that keep you present with your learner
- Reinforcers and flashcards we use in real sessions
- Visual supports that make expectations predictable
Mentioned In This Episode:
Build Your Own BCBA Starter Kit at Different Roads to Learning
Episode 065: How to Use Reinforcement Properly
Episode 106: ABA Assessments
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