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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
Finding Joy in the Chaos: 10 Simple Ways to Find Joy in Everyday Moments
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Parenting can feel constant, demanding, and overwhelming—especially when you’re supporting a neurodiverse child. In the midst of routines, meltdowns, therapies, and daily demands, joy can start to feel distant or even unrealistic.
In this episode of STEPS Together, we shift the focus from “doing more” to noticing, building, and protecting moments of joy that already fit real life. You’ll hear 10 practical, relationship-based ways to experience more joy with your child—without forcing positivity or ignoring challenges.
We talk about:
- Why joy doesn’t have to be big, loud, or Pinterest-worthy
- Celebrating micro-wins and small moments of progress
- Embedding play, movement, and humor into everyday routines
- Using shared interests and predictable rituals to deepen connection
- The importance of your own joy for framing your mindset
This episode is an invitation to slow down, soften expectations, and reconnect—with yourself and with your child. Because thriving doesn’t come from perfect days; it grows from small, intentional moments of joy, repeated over time.
✨ Pick one strategy. Try it this week. Notice what shifts.