Teachers, paraprofessionals, and school administrators often don’t get enough credit—their dedication to the children inside their school is both inspiring and impactful. At Jigsaw, we understand the work that goes into nurturing children and the importance of shaping their futures.
In the world of special education, in particular, we know that neurodivergent children require a tailored approach to teaching and support. As an administrator, you’re often the helpful force behind the scenes, ensuring every resource, program, and staff member is equipped to make a meaningful difference.
And that’s exactly where Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) training comes into play. This specialized training can broaden the skillsets of your educators, enrich the classroom experience, and foster a more inclusive environment.
More than simply a box to check, RBT training will help you empower the children inside your school while also positively impacting your staff. Here’s how RBT training benefits teachers and paraprofessionals.
Understanding Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs)
When it comes to special education, the term that’s gaining increasing recognition is “Registered Behavior Technician” or RBT. But what exactly is an RBT? In essence, an RBT is a trained professional who specializes in the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to support those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
RBTs work closely with teachers, paraprofessionals, and other educational staff to implement behavior intervention plans, collect data, and support students. They also help neurodivergent children develop skills, improve behavior, and enhance their quality of life.
RBTs are essential in creating inclusive and effective learning environments for all students.
The Training Process for RBTs
Now that you know what an RBT is, how exactly can your school staff become one? The process can be rigorous but incredibly rewarding. To become an RBT, individuals must first meet a certain set of requirements—including having a high school diploma or equivalent, successful completion of 40 hours of approved training, and a criminal background check.
Once these prerequisites are met, prospective RBTs undergo a comprehensive training program that covers ABA principles, ethical guidelines, and practical techniques for working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This training provides a solid foundation for understanding behavior and implementing effective support plans.
On our Jigsaw Training online RBT course, we dive into complex behavioral techniques, measurement, functional assessment, and more. Take a look at our first module for free here!
How RBT Training Benefits Teachers and Paraprofessionals
RBT training is a game-changer for teachers and paraprofessionals. Why? The first reason is the knowledge they’ll gain surrounding ABA principles. With these additional skills, they’ll be equipped to better care for their students and tailor their teaching accordingly.
Plus, RBT training helps educators and staff members improve their classroom management skills. They’ll learn practical strategies for addressing behaviors that challenge, turning once overwhelming situations into opportunities for learning. This creates a more structured learning environment that benefits all students (which is what every school professional aims for!).
On a personal and professional level, RBT also training fosters growth. It instills confidence in educators, allowing them to feel more fulfilled in their work. This competence boost even extends beyond the classroom, positively impacting their well-being. RBT training catalyzes growth, empowerment, and exceptional care for the students you serve.
Finding the Right RBT Training
When it comes to finding the right RBT training for your school, it’s crucial to consider a few key factors, including:
- Training that’s comprehensive and Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) compliant.
- A program that’s led by instructors who are not only experienced but passionate about helping others grow as RBTs.
- Training that’s flexible and meets the differing schedules of your staff members.
At Jigsaw, we’re passionate about empowering educators and enhancing the lives of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. So, if you want to start your RBT journey as part of a supportive community, we’d love for you to take a look at our RBT training here.
You can even walk through our first module for free! Our online course uses evidence-based, behavioral teaching strategies, and world-leading CABAS® expert Dr. Emma Hawkins, PGCE, BCBA, and Dr. Niall Conlon, BCBA, a specialist in online ABA staff training, have developed all materials.
By exploring our initial module, you can learn how this training can benefit your team and the students they serve. Our platform aims to make that critical step toward creating a more inclusive and impactful school environment as easy as possible for you.
