STEPS Together

Debra Johnson
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The STEPS for Development podcast offers practical support for adults who are nurturing children's growth and development. Hosted by Debra Johnson, MS, OTR/L, pediatric occupational therapist, parent coach, educator and parent. STEPS Together dives into topics including typical development, neurodevelopmental differences, understanding what lies beneath challenging child behaviors, and exploring strategies that work to improve skills, strengthen relationships and empower parents and caregivers who are invested in helping children thrive and succeed. 

  1. 29 ЯНВ.

    Teaching Flexibility: Helping Kids Who Struggle with Change and Big Feelings

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind! Change is hard — especially for children who thrive on predictability, routine, and a sense of control. If your child has big reactions to small changes, difficulty shifting plans, or intense feelings when things don’t go as expected, you’re not alone. In this episode of STEPS Together, we explore flexibility as a developmental skill that grows over time with support, safety, and practice — not pressure. You’ll learn what flexibility really is, why many neurodiverse children struggle with it, and how it connects to emotional regulation, executive functioning, and resilience. We’ll talk about: What flexible thinking looks like in daily lifeWhy inflexibility is often linked to anxiety, lagging skills, or nervous system overloadSimple, low-pressure ways to help children practice flexibilityHow modeling flexibility as a caregiver makes a powerful differenceWays to build your own flexibility so you can support your child with confidenceThis episode is filled with relatable examples, practical strategies, and compassionate reframes to help you move from power struggles to partnership. If you’ve ever wondered how to help your child handle change, manage big feelings, or become more adaptable over time, this conversation will give you a roadmap grounded in connection and development. Remember — flexibility isn’t about compliance. It’s about building the skills to adapt, recover, and thrive.

    41 мин.

  2. 16 ЯНВ.

    No Resolutions Required: Three Skills for a Hope-Filled New Year

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind! The start of a new year often comes with pressure—to set goals, make resolutions, and “do better.” But what if that’s not what you actually need? In this episode, I’m sharing an honest reflection on the ups and downs of the past month, why I needed to pause, and what helped me reconnect with hope and confidence moving forward. Instead of resolutions, I’ve chosen to focus on three essential skills that support growth in real life: resilience, intention, and courage. We’ll explore what each of these skills really means, what they look like in everyday moments—especially when you’re balancing your own needs with the needs of others—and how you can begin building them in simple, sustainable ways. Drawing on insights from Brené Brown and a nervous-system–informed perspective, this conversation is grounded, practical, and compassionate. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, or the feeling that you should be doing more—even when you’re already doing so much—this episode is for you. You don’t need a new version of yourself to move forward. You just need the right support and a few skills to carry you through. Join me as we take one step at a time—so you can grow your skills, support the child in your life, and move forward with confidence and hope for the future.

    33 мин.

  3. 26.12.2025

    Finding Joy in the Chaos: 10 Simple Ways to Find Joy in Everyday Moments

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind! Parenting can feel constant, demanding, and overwhelming—especially when you’re supporting a neurodiverse child. In the midst of routines, meltdowns, therapies, and daily demands, joy can start to feel distant or even unrealistic. In this episode of STEPS Together, we shift the focus from “doing more” to noticing, building, and protecting moments of joy that already fit real life. You’ll hear 10 practical, relationship-based ways to experience more joy with your child—without forcing positivity or ignoring challenges. We talk about: Why joy doesn’t have to be big, loud, or Pinterest-worthyCelebrating micro-wins and small moments of progressEmbedding play, movement, and humor into everyday routinesUsing shared interests and predictable rituals to deepen connectionThe importance of your own joy for framing your mindsetThis episode is an invitation to slow down, soften expectations, and reconnect—with yourself and with your child. Because thriving doesn’t come from perfect days; it grows from small, intentional moments of joy, repeated over time. ✨ Pick one strategy. Try it this week. Notice what shifts.

    21 мин.

  4. 18.12.2025

    When Regulation Falls Apart: A STEPS Guide to Managing Meltdowns

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind! Meltdowns are often misunderstood and when we treat them like misbehavior, everyone ends up more dysregulated. In this episode of STEPS Together, we break down the critical difference between tantrums and meltdowns, why that distinction matters, and what your child’s nervous system is communicating when regulation falls apart. We'll talk about what causes  meltdowns and reframe what it really means to manage a meltdown—not by controlling behavior, but by supporting regulation when your child cannot do it alone. This episode walks you through a clear, repeatable STEPS approach to managing meltdowns, including: How to regulate yourself first when emotions run highWhy reducing demands helps the nervous system resetWhat co-regulation without control looks like in real lifePractical ways to support your child’s nervous system—and your own—in the momentThe importance of Reflect and Repair after the meltdown is over to rebuild safety, connection, and learningThis conversation isn’t about eliminating meltdowns. It’s about understanding them and responding with intention, so you can get through the worst of times and build skills for change.  If you’ve ever felt stuck between wanting to help and feeling powerless in the moment, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and a path forward—one step at a time. Download the PDF Guide with all the STEPS for managing meltdowns!

    44 мин.

  5. 11.12.2025

    When You Are Doing All The Things...And Nothing Is Changing

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind! If you’ve ever thought, “I’m doing everything people tell me to do so why is my child still melting down, acting out, or struggling?” this episode is for you. In today’s conversation, we unpack one of the most frustrating experiences for parents: working incredibly hard, trying every strategy you can find, and still feeling stuck. You’re not failing and your child isn’t either.  We’ll explore the six hidden reasons you feel stuck, including strategy overload, losing sight of your child’s unique needs, expectations that don’t match developmental readiness, the gap between knowing and doing, the impact of your own regulation and confidence, and losing sight of progress in the face of stress.  By the end, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of what’s been getting in the way and a sense of relief that there is a path forward. Less overwhelm, more clarity, and the reassurance that you can move forward.  Tune in to shift from “trying everything” to trying what actually works and start seeing your successes, no matter how small.  As a reminder to help stay on track, download the PDF guide to this episode!

    29 мин.

  6. 04.12.2025

    Brain Health 101: The Foundations Every Parent Needs to Know

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind! In this episode, I identify the five core pillars of wellness that support a child’s brain health and why they matter far more than most parents realize. Neurodiverse brains often struggle with one or more (sometimes all five!) of these areas; sleep, nutrition, physical activity, social relationships, and stress reduction. Research shows us how each of these areas are vital to brain development and daily function. I’ll break down why each one of these core pillars matters and what you can do as a parent to support your child’s participation in each area. You’ll gain a new perspective, better understanding and walk away with knowledge that you can shift the needle in each of these areas no matter how your child might struggle.

    42 мин.

  7. 26.11.2025

    Realistic, Regulated & Rested: The Holiday Alignment Every Family Needs

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind! Free PDF Guide to Aligning Expectations for Happier Holidays If the holidays tend to leave your family overwhelmed, overtired, and overstimulated, this episode is your reset button. We’re breaking down how to align expectations, routines, and rhythms so your child—and your whole family—can stay grounded in a season that often pulls everyone off balance. In this episode, we explore what it truly means to set realistic expectations for kids’ behavior and capacity, how to help everyone stay regulated amid celebrations and disruptions, and why prioritizing rest is essential—not optional—for a joyful holiday season. You’ll learn where to focus your planning and how to implement practical strategies that help prevent meltdowns, reduce conflict, and create more peaceful moments together. Think of this as your holiday alignment plan: simple mindset shifts and doable routines that help you enjoy the moments that matter most. Let’s build a season that feels calmer, more connected, and a whole lot more “just right” for your family. This is Part 3 of our "Navigating the Holidays" series! If you haven't already listened be sure to go back to Episodes 19 and 20 for more tips and support for what can be an overwhelming time for both your child AND you!  Episode 19: Creating Calm Out of Chaos: How Being Proactive Will Save the Season Episode 20: Holding Your Ground With Heart: Navigating Opinions and Advice

    30 мин.

  8. 20.11.2025

    Holding Your Ground with Heart: Navigating Opinions and Advice

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind! The holidays often bring excitement, connection… and plenty of unsolicited advice. In this episode, we explore how to stay confident, calm, and compassionate when family and friends don’t fully understand your child’s neurodiverse needs or your parenting approach. You’ll learn how to anchor yourself in what you know works for your child, set boundaries with kindness, and respond to well-meaning advice without losing your footing (or your holiday spirit). I'll walk through practical scripts and mindset strategies to help you advocate for your child—and yourself—with clarity, confidence, and heart.  Download the PDF with all the tips and scripts to help you tackle any tough or awkward conversation this season.

    28 мин.
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The STEPS for Development podcast offers practical support for adults who are nurturing children's growth and development. Hosted by Debra Johnson, MS, OTR/L, pediatric occupational therapist, parent coach, educator and parent. STEPS Together dives into topics including typical development, neurodevelopmental differences, understanding what lies beneath challenging child behaviors, and exploring strategies that work to improve skills, strengthen relationships and empower parents and caregivers who are invested in helping children thrive and succeed. 

Информация

  • Автор
    Debra Johnson
  • Годы выхода
    2025 - 2026
  • Выпуски
    27
  • Ограничения
    Без ненормативной лексики
  • Авторские права
    © 2026 STEPS Together
  • Сайт подкаста
    STEPS Together