You’ve raised kids before. You know how to do this. So why isn’t it working with the child you’re raising now?

In this episode, Erin shares what changed when she went from raising four boys in a “free-for-all” house to raising kids who came to her after hard starts in life, and why the timeout and the firm voice stopped working. You’ll hear what actually helps: a predictable routine, squeeze hugs, a lower voice, naming the feeling, and the hardest one of all, not taking it personally.

In this episode:

• Dreaming of six daughters and getting four boys
• Why kids who’ve been through hard things react the way they do
• Triggers, and why what was fine yesterday can set off a meltdown today
• The 7:00 bedtime rule, and what happens when it slips
• Squeeze hugs, a lower voice, and naming the feeling
• Why “it’s not about you” was the most freeing thing Erin ever learned

Your one small step this week: Pick the part of the day that goes sideways the most (bedtime, mornings, or after school) and make it predictable. Same order, same words, same time.

The parenting that worked before wasn’t wrong. It was built for a different kid. You’re allowed to learn a new way at any age.

Links mentioned:

• The Back Porch, a home for grandparents, aunts, uncles, and relatives raising kids: https://backporchscore.com
• Child Welfare Information Gateway: https://www.childwelfare.gov
• The Connected Child (book): https://link.amazon/B0dUpzx3q
• Picture routine chart for the fridge: https://link.amazon/B05A0LNgH
• The World According to Nestie Jr. (Erin’s children’s book): https://link.amazon/B0hqhW0Sm
• Windshield Wisdom on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ErinsRaisingKidsAgain

Next week: Who’s taking care of the one doing all the taking care of?

I’m not a therapist, social worker, or lawyer. I’m a relative caregiver sharing what I’ve lived and what I’ve learned.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.