Um loved Breaking Bad, but still haven’t touched Downton Abbey…

Better? I hadn’t even seen the tower in the distance.

We don’t need to “fix” Autistic children. We need to fix the systems around them.
#Neuroaffirming #BeyondBehaviourism
#AASAR2025 #AutisticAcceptance @anneborden.bsky.social

-Autistics & allies are demanding dignity, autonomy & connection over compliance.
-There are no “good” versions of ABA.Kindness,co-regulation & neuroaffirming practices must take its place.
-Parents, educators, therapists & Autistic leaders are rejecting behaviourism & building better systems.

Key insights from her talk:
-ABA grew out of institutional abuse—not inclusion.
It was never designed to support Autistic people, but to normalize and control them.
-ABA’s dominance stems from aggressive lobbying, not scientific merit.

-Kids can’t do better until they feel safe, regulated,& trusted.
-Data must reflect participation, not punishment.
   •   Co-regulation is the most powerful tool we have.
Let’s stop managing kids & start supporting them
#BeyondBehaviour
@gregsantucciot.bsky.social
endseclusion.org/beyond-behav...

Some Key Ideas:
-Behaviour is a signal, not a problem.
-Token boards/ smiley charts don’t teach regulation—they teach masking.

He dismantled behaviourist strategies such as sticker charts, token systems and ABA and shared real stories—including the heartbreaking “wool hat” incident—to show why co-regulation, compassion, and felt safety must replace punishment and control.

Might it not also be a bit of dyspraxia too though? I bite my cheek or tongue or lip by accident at least couple of times a week.