How to Use the Flexibunnies Program in School Settings: A Guide for School-Based BCBAs

Introduction

As behavior analysts working in school settings, we often face resistance when introducing new interventions—whether due to staff skepticism, lack of resources, or misconceptions about behavior-analytic approaches.

The Flexibunnies program is a movement-based ABA intervention designed to support self-regulation, flexibility, and social engagement, yet getting buy-in from educators and school teams can be a challenge. This guide will equip you with the tools to advocate for Flexibunnies, navigate common barriers, and effectively implement the program in both individual and group settings.

Advocating for Flexibunnies in Schools: Addressing Resistance & Building Buy-In

One of the biggest obstacles in school-based ABA is securing buy-in from teachers, administrators, and support staff. While movement-based interventions are backed by research, many schools remain hesitant to adopt new approaches that deviate from their existing curriculum or routines. Here’s how to overcome these challenges:

1. Speak Their Language – Many educators view ABA as rigid or compliance-focused, which may lead to resistance when introducing a structured movement program. Frame Flexibunnies in a way that aligns with their priorities: “This program supports student engagement, self-regulation, and participation in the classroom—all essential for learning.” Use school-friendly terms like “structured movement breaks” and “self-regulation strategies” rather than emphasizing ABA jargon.
   

2. Present the Research & Align with Educational Goals – Schools are more likely to accept interventions that have an evidence base, particularly those that align with state and federal education mandates (e.g., IDEA, MTSS frameworks). Highlight research on movement-based interventions improving cognitive function, reducing problem behavior, and increasing attention in students with ASD, ADHD, and other learning differences.
   

3. Anticipate & Address Pushback – Expect objections such as:

   • “We don’t have time for this.” → Position Flexibunnies as a preventative strategy rather than an “extra” task. A 5-minute structured movement break can prevent hours of disruptive behavior.

   
   

   • “This isn’t part of our curriculum.” → Link it to SEL (Social-Emotional Learning), PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports), or self-regulation goals already in place.

   
   

   • “Our students won’t participate.” → Explain how reinforcement strategies, preference assessments, and individualized supports ensure engagement.
     

4. Start Small & Show Success – Rather than pushing for school-wide adoption, start with a small pilot group. Select a teacher or classroom already open to movement-based interventions, collect meaningful data on behavioral improvements, and use that as leverage to expand the program.

Adjusting for Individual vs. Group Settings

Flexibunnies is designed to be flexible (no pun intended), allowing for implementation in both individual and group contexts. However, school staff may struggle to understand how to modify it to fit their setting.

• Individual Settings (1:1 ABA Therapy, Resource Rooms, Pull-Out Services)

  • Use Flexibunnies as a reinforcement strategy: Movement-based contingencies can increase motivation for less-preferred academic tasks.
    

  • Target specific skill acquisition goals: Exercises can be linked to flexibility, following multi-step directions, waiting, and self-control.
    

  • Implement behavior momentum strategies: Start with easy, high-probability movements before introducing more challenging, low-probability responses.
    

• Group Settings (Classrooms, Social Skills Groups, Inclusion Settings)

  • Modify movement sequences to increase participation: Some students may need visual supports, modeling, or a gradual introduction to new exercises.
    

  • Incorporate peer-mediated interventions: Peers can be used to model correct responses and reinforce engagement.
    

  • Embed within existing routines: Flexibunnies can be seamlessly integrated into morning meetings, transitions, or as a Tier 1 intervention for all students.

Customizing the Program for Different School Environments

Every school operates differently, and successful implementation requires tailoring Flexibunnies to fit the existing structure rather than expecting schools to adjust to the program.

• General Education Classrooms → Use Flexibunnies as a class-wide self-regulation tool, implementing it as part of structured breaks or “brain boosts.”
  

• Special Education Classrooms → Align activities with IEP goals, embedding movement into behavior reduction and skill-building objectives.
  

• PBIS & SEL Programs → Position Flexibunnies as a proactive strategy for reducing classroom disruptions and improving self-regulation skills.
  

• Therapeutic & Resource Rooms → Individualize movement sequences based on sensory needs and behavioral goals.
  

One of the most effective strategies is collaborating with school staff rather than operating in isolation. If teachers are unwilling to implement the program themselves, offer to lead a session with their students while they observe. By demonstrating success, you increase the likelihood of teacher buy-in.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Flexibunnies offers a research-supported, engaging way to improve self-regulation and behavioral flexibility in school settings. However, successful implementation requires strong advocacy, strategic alignment with school priorities, and adaptation to existing structures. By addressing staff concerns, presenting clear research-backed benefits, and starting with a small-scale pilot program, behavior analysts can break through resistance and integrate Flexibunnies effectively.

For those looking to introduce Flexibunnies into a school setting:  ✔ Start small with a pilot group  ✔ Frame it in terms that resonate with educators (SEL, self-regulation, PBIS)  ✔ Collect data and present meaningful outcomes to expand buy-in  ✔ Offer hands-on demonstrations to skeptical staff

By advocating strategically and aligning with the school's goals, you can position Flexibunnies as a valuable tool that enhances both student learning and classroom management.