Podcasts · The ABA Speech Podcast- Easy Strategies for Speech Therapists, BCBAs, and RBTs
#230: The Importance of Play with Maggie Haraburda
· 32 min · Episode 230
Episode #230: The Importance of Play with Maggie Haraburda
For BCBA Maggie Haraburda, founder of Unfurling Littles, play is anything that sparks joy. Her approach to ABA therapy blends child-led play with ACT-integrated strategies, centering on the child’s motivation and individuality.
In our conversation, Maggie highlights the “Dos and Don’ts” of play therapy: join the child’s world before introducing new elements, build from what already brings them joy, and act as a play partner—not a director.
Her neurodiversity-affirming lens means recognizing all forms of communication, supporting autonomy, self-regulation, and self-advocacy, and honoring each child’s unique strengths.
Maggie doesn’t shy away from anti-ABA concerns. She acknowledges past harms and invites curiosity over defensiveness, aiming always to grow and improve her practice.
She also offers an ACE-approved CEU, Supporting Play the Neurodiversity Affirming Way. Expanding your playbook is important. Explore more CEUs at ABA Speech Connection to deepen your understanding of language milestones and child-led support.
#autism #speechtherapy
What’s Inside:
• What is play and child-led therapy? • How to become a play partner? • Elements of a neurodiversity-affirming practice. • A curious approach to anti-ABA rhetoric.
Mentioned In This Episode:
Unfurling Littles LLC maggie.h@unfurlinglittles.com Episode #146: Early Intervention and Project Impact with Anna Dvortcsak and Dr. Brook Ingersoll - ABA Speech Membership - ABA Speech ABA Speech: Home
Links in the notes 4
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