You've tried all the tools - sensory breaks, behavior charts, all the "parenting hacks" from social media - only to end up frustrated when nothing seems to work. It's not that you or your child are failing, it's that the strategy isn't the right match. Too often, we are looking for the quick fix and don't stop to think whether this tool in this moment is the right choice. Sometimes the tool we try even escalates behaviors and increases stress! In this episode we'll explore why even tried and true strategies might backfire, how to look beneath the surface of behavior to really know what your child needs, and what it takes to start "thinking like a therapist" so that you will be more effective and successful in supporting your child. You'll get a clearer lens for problem-solving, practical steps to start today, and the confidence to stop guessing and start knowing what works for your child.

Is your child’s “defiance” leaving you drained and second-guessing yourself? Are you feeling manipulated, controlled and lost about how to change the status quo? What if those daily battles were really signs of persistence, resilience, independence and creativity that are your child's strengths, just waiting to be guided? In this episode, we’ll reframe defiance and oppositional behaviors through a new lens—seeing the strengths behind strong-willed behavior and learning practical strategies to reduce power struggles, foster cooperation, and nurture independence. I'll guide you in shifting your perspective and seeing how a strength-based approach changes everything and, most importantly, empowers you with the skills you need to tackle those challenging moments. Together, we’ll discover how strong will, when supported, can become one of your child’s greatest assets.

BONUS with this episode! Grab your copy of the Strength-Based Guide to Strong-Willed Kids here: https://steps-for-development.kit.com/72fa40b7eb

Resources mentioned in this episode:

You Can't Make Me But I Can Be Persuaded by Cythina Tobias

How To Talk So Kids Will Listen, and Listen So Kids Will Talk by Faber and Mazlish

Celebrate Calm Podcast with Kirk Martin

In this episode of STEPS Together, Debra Johnson, MS, OTR/L, explores what it really means to “work too hard” as a parent or caregiver—not in chores or daily tasks, but emotionally. When we try to control every behavior, feeling, or outcome, we often end up drained, stressed, and disconnected from our children. Instead of striving for control, there’s a different path: focusing on what is really yours to control and fostering connection. Tune in to learn how letting go of what’s not yours to carry can reduce your stress, strengthen your relationship with your child, and create space for both of you to grow.