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Episode 16:
Do Constant Power Struggles Leave Your Child (and You!) in a Meltdown? Why This Happens and 4 Things to Do Instead!
💛 Does it feel like everything turns into a battle with your child?
Do simple daily routines like getting dressed, brushing teeth, getting into the car, or leaving the playground end in tears or meltdowns?
Do you find yourself asking, "Why won't my child just listen?"
Are you exhausted from feeling like you're constantly negotiating, reminding, and repeating yourself throughout the day?
In this episode, we're taking a closer look at what's really happening underneath daily power struggles. You'll learn why many of these challenging moments have less to do with defiance and more to do with your child's developing brain, nervous system, sensory processing, and growing need for autonomy.
We'll discuss how an immature prefrontal cortex impacts your child's ability to regulate emotions and cooperate, why traditional approaches sometimes increase resistance, and how sensory overload, hunger, fatigue, and stress can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming.
Most importantly, you'll walk away with 4 practical, evidence-based strategies you can start using today to reduce daily battles, support regulation, and strengthen your connection with your child!
Next Steps:Step 1: Join our free Facebook community and connect with other parents who are learning to understand behavior through a sensory and nervous system lens.
Step 2: This week, try one of the four strategies from today's episode:
- Connect before you correct
- Give your child a roadmap of what's coming next
- Offer controlled choices
- Focus on regulation before compliance
Step 3: The next time a power struggle begins, pause and ask yourself:
"What is my child's behavior telling me about what he/she needs right now?"
That simple question can help shift your focus from stopping the behavior to understanding what's driving it.
Remember: Behavior is communication. When we understand what's happening beneath the behavior, we can respond with greater confidence, compassion, and connection.
💛 Related Episodes:
Episode 10: Struggling with Your Child's Intense Meltdowns? What's Really Happening and What to Do in the Moment
Episode 11: Curious About Why Your Child Plays the Way They Do? Understanding Their Sensory Needs Through Play
Episode 13: Why Your Toddler Falls Apart After Daycare (And What to Do About It!)
Connecting with Us!Connect on FB -> Join our Free Facebook Community
Podcast -> Sensory Solutions for Parents
Instagram -> @SensorySolutionsforParents
DISCLAIMER
This podcast, Sensory Solutions for Parents, is intended for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, occupational therapy, or other professional advice.
The host is a licensed occupational therapist; however, the information shared in this podcast is general in nature and may not apply to your specific child or situation. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship between you and Alison Foura, PhD, OTR/L. Any strategies, ideas, or suggestions shared are offered as general support for parents and caregivers and should be used at your own discretion, with consideration for your child’s individual needs and your family’s values.
Always seek the guidance of your child’s pediatrician, occupational therapist, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your child’s development, behavior, or health.
This podcast may also include personal experiences and, at times, faith-based perspectives. These are shared as part of Alison’s personal and professional lens and are not intended to replace individualized care or professional guidance.
