If you’ve tried autism parenting tips that aren’t moving the needle, this episode brings you back to your own nervous system as the missing piece. I share real examples of how to co-regulate through meltdowns and a four-step co-regulation framework—Pause, Observe, Connect, Support—that helps PDA and PDA autistic children move through meltdowns with safety and autonomy. Learn why nervous-system safety and low-demand parenting are the keys to long-term wellbeing.

What you’ll hear in this episode

• Your nervous system as your child’s most powerful co-regulator: why the parent’s regulation matters above all else
• Mirror neurons and wellbeing: how your child’s nervous system mirrors yours and what that means for daily moments
• The four-step framework to shift from trigger to co-regulator: Pause → Observe → Connect → Support
• What lies beneath the behavior: moving from behavior-focused ideas to understanding the nervous system and safety
• Practical links to low-demand parenting, nervous-system safety, and caregiver regulation to support PDA-autistic children

Key takeaways

• You are the primary environment your PDA-autistic child experiences; your nervous system safety is foundational to their wellbeing.
• Co-regulation is a practice you embody, not something you “switch on” in the moment.
• Focus on what’s happening beneath behavior (autonomy, safety, and nervous-system safety) to reduce power struggles and build trust.

🔗 RESOURCES MENTIONED:

My 4-Step Approach (simplified!)
Special Co-regulation gift! x

Explore these topics on your favorite player:

• ⚡ Regulation & Safety: Understand why PDA is a Nervous System Response here.
• 🗣️ PDA Foundations: Master the shift to Declarative Language & Safety here.
• 🏫 Education & Advocacy: Navigating masking and School Refusal here.

Text me and tell me- What do you want to hear for future episodes?

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You are not failing, and your child is not broken. If you're ready to establish deeper foundations around burnout and sustainability, visit chantalhewitt.com for more resources and 1:1 support.

About the Show: Chantal Hewitt provides neuroaffirming strategies for Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Autism. We help families navigate autistic burnout, family wellbeing and sibling dynamics, challenging behaviour, school refusal and autism meltdowns using low-demand parenting.

Watch on Youtube! 📺 @chantal.hewitt