If you’ve been trying everything to support your PDA or Autistic child through meltdowns and nothing is working, this episode will help you understand why — and what actually helps.

In this episode, I share the single shift that changed everything in our home when it came to supporting my PDA autistic son. For years, I approached his meltdowns like a behaviour problem to fix. What I didn’t realise was that the strategies I was using were increasing his overwhelm, not reducing it.

You’ll learn why PDA meltdowns are nervous-system panic, not defiance, and how traditional Autism strategies can accidentally intensify PDA distress. I walk you through the exact moment things changed for us, the mindset shift that transformed our relationship, and the connection-first approach I now teach families in the same situation.

✨ In this episode:
• Why PDA meltdowns are driven by anxiety, not refusal
• The shift that instantly reduced meltdowns in our home
• Why connection regulates more effectively than control
• How to support your child before, during and after overwhelm
• The first steps to stop power struggles and rebuild safety

If you’ve been trying everything and nothing is helping, there is a path forward — one that feels lighter, kinder, and far more sustainable for both you and your child.

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If you’re parenting an Autistic or PDA child and want support that actually works, you’ll find more tools and free resources at chantalhewitt.com.

✨ Join The Attuned Parenting Community for Parents Raising Autistic / PDA Children

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✨ Download my free guides

Early Signs Guide → CLICK HERE
Calm Parent Checklist → CLICK HERE
PDA Parenting Guide → CLICK HERE

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Reach out if you need anything- Say hello, share your story :) → hello@chantalhewitt.com

Chantal x