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STEPS Together
The STEPS for Development podcast offers practical support for adults who are nurturing children's growth and development. Hosted by Debra Johnson, MS, OTR/L, pediatric occupational therapist, parent coach, educator and parent. STEPS Together dives into topics including typical development, neurodevelopmental differences, understanding what lies beneath challenging child behaviors, and exploring strategies that work to improve skills, strengthen relationships and empower parents and caregivers who are invested in helping children thrive and succeed.
STEPS Together
Calm is Contagious: Connect, Co-Regulate, and Carry On!
Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind!
When your child is overwhelmed, crying, yelling or shutting down, it can feel impossible to know what to do. But what if I told you that the most powerful tool isn't a strategy, sensory activity or consequence?
Is this episode, we'll explore the power we as adults have in supporting children when they are dysregulated. Your calm presence can help regulate your child's nervous system during moments of emotional distress. You'll learn what's really going in your child's brain when those big feelings take over, how the limbic system hijacks logical thinking, and what you can do regain calm.
I'll break down what co-regulation really looks like in everyday parenting moments and how to use connection, empathy and a few simple shifts in your approach to guide your child back to calm. You'll hear practical ideas for how to work towards being proactive in self-regulation and get a whole of encouragement to keep going and practice those skills!
No matter what role you have in a child's life - parenting, educating, caregiving, or providing therapy, you'll find this episode offers practical support for helping you connect, co-regulate and carry-on together.