Behaviour Bits

In this episode of Behaviour Bits, Jenn sits down with Prue Walker, a clinical social worker and leading expert in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). With years of experience in child protection, out-of-home care, and her pivotal role at Monash Children’s Hospital, Prue offers an in-depth exploration of FASD—what it is, how it affects the brain and body, and the challenges individuals with FASD face in daily life.Prue delves into the neurodevelopmental implications of prenatal alcohol exposure, discussing the importance of early diagnosis, appropriate interventions, and strategies to support individuals with FASD.This episode is packed with actionable insights, from understanding the unique behaviours linked to FASD to creating supportive environments that foster growth and development. Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or professional, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge to help you better support individuals with FASD and navigate the challenges they face.FASD HubNOFASD AustraliaEmerging Minds FASD resources https://emergingminds.com.au/?s=fasdCanada FASD Research Network (CanFASD) behavioural resources https://canfasd.ca/?s=behaviourOverview of FASDPopova, S., Charness, M. E., Burd, L., Crawford, A., Hoyme, H. E., Mukherjee, R. A. S., Riley, E. P., & Elliott, E. J. (2023). Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Nat Rev Dis Primers, 9(1), 11. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41572-023-00420-xMcLean, S. (2022). Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD): An update on policy and practice in Australia (9781760162092). https://aifs.gov.au/resources/policy-and-practice-papers/fetal-alcohol-spectrum-disorder-fasd-update-policy-andFlannigan, K., Pei, J., McLachlan, K., Harding, K., Mela, M., Cook, J., Badry, D., & McFarlane, A. (2022). Responding to the Unique Complexities of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Frontiers in Psychology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.778471FASD and Behaviour SupportsHow thinking about behavior differently can lead to happier FASD familiesBehavioral Interventions in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum DisordersKautz-Turnbull, C., Kaminsky, E., Kuhn, M., Wittlin, R., Petrenko, C. L. M., & Olson, H. C. (2024). Positive behavior support (PBS) with children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders: Characterizing caregivers' use of PBS using follow-up clinical trial data. Res Dev Disabil, 151, 104773. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ridd.2024.104773Petrenko, C. L. M. (2015). Positive Behavioral Interventions and Family Support for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Curr Dev Disord Rep, 2(3), 199-209. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40474-015-0052-8To contact Prue or request a consultation visit https://pruewalkerfasd.comTime Stamps:• [00:00:40] Introduction to Prue Walker and her professional background• [00:02:15] What is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)?• [00:04:26] Prue’s journey from child protection to specialising in FASD• [00:06:14] Understanding the causes and development of FASD• [00:08:42] The impact of alcohol exposure timing and quantity during pregnancy• [00:12:00] Key cognitive and behavioural challenges associated with FASD• [00:17:50] Rates of FASD in the general population and underdiagnosis• [00:20:33] Populations and signs where FASD is most prevalent• [00:24:54] Pathways for diagnosis and the role of neuropsychologists• [00:27:24] Strategies to support individuals with FASD in schools and at home• [00:35:34] General behavioural strategies for managing FASD effectively• [00:40:42] Resources for professionals and caregivers to learn more about FASD#FASD #ChildProtection #Neurodevelopment #BehaviourSupport #PositiveBehaviour #FetalAlcoholSpectrumDisorder #InclusiveEducation #BehaviourBits #ProfessionalDevelopment #ParentingStrategies

In this episode of Behaviour Bits, Jenn welcomes Sharon Paley, founder and CEO of the Australian Centre for Restraint Reduction & Elimination (ACRRE). Sharon has a wide breadth and depth of experience in restrictive practice reduction. Her 40+ years of experience is reflected by her strong practice background, knowledge of practice research, and achievements in the field. Together, Jenn and Sharon dive into the complex and crucial topic of restrictive practices, discussing what they are, where they occur, and the systemic issues that allow them to persist. Sharon shares her professional journey, detailing how her early experiences shaped her dedication to reducing these practices and advocating for more ethical and supportive approaches.Listeners will gain insights into the ethical considerations surrounding restrictive practices and learn why it is essential to address these issues for the well-being of both the individuals affected and the professionals implementing them. Sharon’s emphasis on the importance of understanding and improving communication methods offers practical and impactful strategies for those in support roles, making this episode an invaluable resource for anyone looking to make a difference in behaviour support.Timestamps:[00:01:24] Introduction to Sharon Paley and her work on restrictive practices.[00:01:43] Defining restrictive practices and their application across various sectors.[00:07:18] Discussion on the real-life impacts of restrictive practices on individuals.[00:11:04] Identifying the most vulnerable groups affected by restrictive practices.[00:17:13] Examples of restrictive practices used inappropriately due to lack of guidance.[00:26:15] The importance of restraint reduction plans alongside behaviour support plans.[00:30:10] Misconceptions about risk management and how they influence practices.[00:36:47] The role of leadership in modelling change and reducing restrictive practices.[00:42:19] Addressing fear and gaining buy-in from staff implementing support plans.[00:51:06] Resources and further support for understanding and managing restrictive practices.

In this episode of Behaviour Bits, Jenn welcomes Ashley Smith, founder of NeuroBloom, to explore the journey from an unlikely start in dental care to becoming a trauma behavioural specialist. Ashley shares how her personal experiences and late diagnosis of autism and ADHD shaped her professional evolution into the fields of child protection, out-of-home care, and NDIS support. Through this discussion, listeners gain insight into the profound connection between trauma, behaviour, and mental health, along with the importance of relational care in professional practice.The episode dives into how trauma-informed care has become a vital component of behavioural support and offers practical strategies for fostering connection and healing through community and neurobiology. Ashley’s insights are invaluable for professionals seeking to understand and apply trauma-informed frameworks in their work. By tuning in, listeners will walk away with practical knowledge to enhance their approach to care, improve client outcomes, and cultivate more compassionate, effective support strategies.Additional notes and resources:Cozolino, L. (2013). *The social neuroscience of education: Optimizing attachment and learning in the classroom.* W. W. Norton & Company.Could the Blackfoot Wisdom that inspired Maslow Guide Us Now?The Emergence of the Breath of Life Theory - Blackfoot BeliefsThe Handbook of Trauma-Transformative PracticeDr Tracey Westerman - Indigenous Psychological ServicesDr Daniel Huges - PACE and Dyadic Developmental PsychotherapyCentre of Excellence in Therapeutic CareAustralian Childhood Foundation - RESOURCESBrené Brown - The Anatomy of TrustFour F’s - Reflexive PracticesNeurobloom - InstagramTime Stamps02:29 – Jenn asks Ashley to introduce herself and share her background04:27 – How does one go from dentistry to trauma specialist?09:39 – Managing quality and quantity in behavioural support12:22 – Tell us more about NeuroBloom and its values15:55 – The importance of community actualisation and connection18:22 – What does trauma-informed practice look like?23:53 – Defining neuroplasticity in trauma care31:32 – How do you connect a care team effectively?34:22 – Practical steps for fostering team collaboration and connection40:31 – Professional burnout and staying aligned with core values46:42 – Tips for applying trauma-informed practice in real-world settings52:40 – Resources for enhancing trauma-informed practice knowledge

In this episode of Behaviour Bits, Jenn sits down with Tim Angel, an experiencedoccupational therapist and director of Ability Rehab and Bridge Rehab. Tim delves intothe world of sensory integration, explaining how sensory processes impact individuals’behaviour and functioning. He shares insights from his extensive career, focusing on theimportance of understanding and addressing sensory needs in both clinical settingsand everyday life.Tim discusses practical strategies for recognising and supporting sensory needs,emphasising the importance of predictability and routine. He provides examples fromhis work with children, adolescents, and adults with autism and other neurodiverseconditions, illustrating how tailored interventions can enhance focus, calmness, andoverall well-being. This episode oIers valuable information for those looking to deepentheir understanding of sensory integration and its application in therapeutic andpersonal contexts.Time stamps01:13 - Tim’s professional background and focus on sensory integration03:30 - Defining sensory integration and its significance06:51 - Practical examples of sensory strategies in daily life10:56 - Understanding interoception and its role in behaviour18:21 - The impact of sensory tools and the importance of strategy22:34 - The role of consistent, predictable routines in managing sensory needs26:47 - Discussion on screen time and sensory overload35:13 - Key takeaways and practical advice for listeners37:26 - Resources for further information on sensory integration