Function Junction:Behavior Matters

Dr. Angie Mullennix gives us some of the background of her early studies and career that shows her determination started at a young age.  She shares with us her plans for getting back to triathlons.  She also used her recovery time to help others in their efforts to run and swim.  Have a listen to this amazing lady.  Stay for the question that Susan and I really had to talk through.

Our second season starts with the first part of a conversation with Dr. Angie Mullennix who has an amazing story of recovery and fortitude.  Dr. Mullennix is the Director of Innovative Practices and Programs and State Military Liaison for the North Carolina department of Public Instruction.  She is also a triathlete.  While on a training ride at the end of March this year, she was hit by a truck.  Her injuries indicated a 2-3 month recovery in the hospital and rehab.  After one week in the hospital, she was released to go home with in-home health support.  Have a listen to how she did that.  Oh yes, and she ran a 5K in July!

Have a listen to the second part of the conversation which was Episode 21.  Chris and Lucinda share ideas and deep thoughts that apply to just about everyone.  We are closing this first (long) season with a revisit of their message.  We hope that teachers are resting this summer and being reminded of the critical role they play in their students' lives.  There is a question at the end.  Give it a try.  We will be back September 2nd.

We are going to wrap this first (extended) season with a revisit of a great conversation with Lucinda and Chris from Episode 20.  Chris is an adult with autism.  Lucinda is his dedicated mom.  They have faced difficulties and victories and share the difference one person can make.  Chris talks about what a difference a teacher made.  We celebrate teachers and hope they are having a great summer.  The episode ends with a question about ABA concepts.  We will post Part 2 next week and then take a break before coming back with Season 2 on September 2.  Thank you to everyone who has been listening.

The conversation continues with Cheri Ibarra who is a great teacher working with students on the spectrum as well as others who need behavior support.  We have a great discussion about meltdowns vs. tantrums.  Cheri also shares wonderful ideas including working with students to help them learn to calm themselves.  She works hard to make the future better for her students.  Enjoy and stay for the question.

Susan and Cissy talk with Cheri Ibarra who is a great teacher working with students with less academic needs and more needs in the social skills area. In this first part, she talks about fun students and using QR codes to help collect data to guide the interventions to be used.  You will hear that she has high expectations for her students and they rise to meet those expectations.  Thanks for listening and stay for the question.

In this episode, Susan and Cissy talk about how behavior change can be seen in all parts of our lives.  Susan talks about a great pilates instructor and a change in her behavior.  They also talk about how even their own dogs have shaped their behavior.  Behavior change is everywhere.  Understanding how our choices influence others and how other's behaviors influences us can be powerful.  Stay for the question. Thank you for listening.

Join the second half of the conversation Susan and Cissy have with Loz Scott Young.  Loz was diagnosed as autistic as an adult.  She has navigated the way for herself and her two children who also have autism.  She shares great information about sensory issues as well as preparing for social and communicative interactions.  She talks about some of the educational challenges her child had and trying to advocate for supports.  We hope you enjoy and stay for the question.

Have a listen to the conversation Susan and Cissy had with Lorraine "Loz" Scott Young.  Loz was diagnosed with autism as an adult and has two children who are on the spectrum.   In a search to help her own child, she found herself going to work with Chewy Gem.  Chewy Gem makes chewable jewelry and fidgets to help those who need that type of extra sensory input.  One of her children has used his interest in video games to become a professional gamer.  Loz's perspective is very informative and will make you think.  The hosts hope you take away as much as they did.  Stay for the question.

Jackie Marushka picks back up talking about being able to "high five" yourself and the importance of cheering for yourself.  She makes things happen in the field of public relations.  Her efforts also make things happen for others outside of her work day.  She shares beautiful examples of behavior change in real life.  Enjoy the conversation, incorporate some of her ideas, stay for the quesiton.