Making Sense of the Hard Bits of Parenting — Bend, Don't Break

She Snippets for She Speaks Podcast Series 3 — Making Sense of the Hard Bits of Parenting

Episode Overview

We've all been there—the carefully planned day that suddenly dissolves into chaos. The unexpected meltdown that derails what should have been a simple transition. We reach for structure, believing routines are the answer. And often they are. But what happens when the systems we create actually hold our children back?

In this snippet, Delyse explores the difference between helpful routine and harmful rigidity, why some children can't be flexible (not won't), and how to build enough predictability for security while creating space for growth. The goal isn't perfect adherence to a schedule—it's raising children who can navigate both the predictable and the unexpected.

This Episode

Delyse explores the balance between structure and flexibility—being prepared for not being prepared. We explore:

• The power of predictability
• The paradox
• The middle path
• Practical strategies
• Rethinking "no"

Quotable Moments

"You are working with skill, not will. The child who can't transition smoothly isn't being difficult on purpose. They're showing us the edges of their current capabilities." — Delyse Clayden

"The routine that comforts can also reinforce rigidity." — Delyse Clayden

"Boredom—the state we rush to eliminate—is actually what motivates children to seek new experiences and engage in creative thinking." — Delyse Clayden

"The most important routine we can establish might just be the habit of pausing, breathing, and asking: What does my child need right now to grow?" — Delyse Clayden

About Your Hosts

Professor Narelle Lemon is a researcher, educator, and passionate advocate for women's wellbeing based at Edith Cowan University in Perth. Creator of She Speaks and the Citizen Wellbeing Scientist project, Narelle has dedicated over 25 years to one powerful belief: self-care is not selfish—it's essential.

Delyse Clayden is an experienced educator, disability advocate, and mother of three. Specialising in Anxiety, Autism, and working with siblings, Delyse brings both personal and professional experience to her advocacy work. Her unique perspective as both an educator and a parent living alongside additional needs allows her to connect authentically with families.

Connect With Us

•       Follow She Speaks on Instagram: @shespeakswellbeingstrategies

•       Visit our website: www.shespeakswellbeing.com

•       Delyse Clayden — Disability Advocate

A Note on Wellbeing

She Speaks is dedicated to amplifying women's voices on self-care and wellbeing. While we share personal experiences and practical strategies, please remember that this podcast is not a substitute for professional mental health support. If you're struggling, we encourage you to reach out to a qualified mental health practitioner.

She Speaks is proudly supported by the Western Australian Government and Department of Communities Women's Grants for a Stronger Future Grants Program.

She Speaks Podcast was recorded on the lands of the Whadjuk Nyoongar people. We respectfully acknowledge our elders past, present, and emerging.