Episode 240: Making ABA Strategies Work for Parents, Educators, and Real Life with Jordan Black

We’re joined by Jordan Black, BCBA, co-host of Moms on Their Best Behavior and co-owner of Best Behavior Solutions, for a thoughtful conversation about making ABA strategies for parents and educators practical, accessible, and relevant far beyond the therapy room.

Jordan shares her journey into behavior analysis through special education and how becoming a parent reshaped the way she approaches behavior support at home and in professional settings. We discuss why ABA should not feel exclusive to autism services and how understanding the function of behavior, teaching replacement behaviors, and using positive reinforcement effectively can support all children across home, school, and community environments.

Our conversation highlights common challenges parents face—especially when behaviors feel overwhelming—and how behavior science can offer clear, compassionate solutions without relying solely on consequence-based approaches. Jordan also explains how helping parents understand why behavior occurs is often the missing piece in long-term success.

We expand the discussion into schools and daycare settings, where educators manage complex environments with limited behavioral training. Jordan shares insights on supporting staff with realistic ABA strategies that improve classroom systems while meeting individual student needs.

We wrap up by exploring parent buy-in, collaboration, and Jordan’s advice for newly certified BCBAs navigating the early stages of their careers—reminding listeners that thoughtful problem-solving and continued learning are essential in effective, ethical practice.