Hello and welcome to Calm Connection Parenting! I’m your host, Jami Kirkbride—mom of seven, parenting coach, professional counselor, and wrangler of big emotions.
If you’re raising a highly sensitive child with intense emotions, challenging behaviors, or a "spicy" personality, and wondering if you’ll make it through without losing your mind, you’re not alone!
Around here, we’re all about real-life parenting, sprinkled with a little humor and a whole lot of patience. So, grab your coffee (trust me, you’ll need it), and join me as we explore tips, stories, and faith-based strategies to help you bring more calm and confidence into your chaotic days.
Ready to learn some practical tips and effective strategies to move from overwhelmed and stressed to calm, confident and blessed! Let’s do this!
Ten Effective Strategies Parents Need to Calm Emotional Dysregulation in Kids-- A Listener Favorite
Season 1 · Episode 39
Thursday, July 24, 2025 • Duration 32:07
This week, we’re doing something a little different—and a little special. Life in the Kirkbride home has been full of ups and downs lately… a big family vacation, the heartbreaking loss of my beloved brother-in-law, and the joy of our son’s wedding—all in just two weeks. And now, I’ve lost my voice completely.
But instead of skipping this week, we’re pulling together as a family—because I didn’t want to miss the chance to send encouragement your way. You’ll even hear a sweet intro from my 10-year-old son, Bennett, who’s helping me kick off this special episode.
We’re revisiting one of your favorites: “Emotional Dysregulation in Kids: 10 Effective Strategies to Help Your Child Calm Down.”
In this replay, we’ll explore:
What emotional dysregulation really is—and why it’s not just defiance
The science behind emotional overwhelm and meltdowns
10 practical strategies to help your child calm down in the moment
Proactive steps to reduce emotional blow-ups before they start
How to rebuild connection after a hard moment
If things have felt heavy or emotionally intense in your home lately… we hope this episode gives you the tools—and the encouragement—you need to breathe, reset, and keep going.
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
*** This podcast and host will not offer medical advice, nor is it intended to take the place of counseling, medical intervention, or treatment. Jami Kirkbride is hereby operating as a parenting coach and will not diagnose or treat clients. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, or mental health provider to meet your immediate and ongoing needs.
38. The Parenting Burnout No One Talks About: Trying So Hard With An Emotionally Dysregulated Child and Still Getting Nowhere
Season 1 · Episode 38
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 • Duration 21:07
You’re doing everything you can—books, prayers, redirection, deep breaths—and your child is still melting down, spiraling, or exploding over the smallest things. And now? You’re emotionally drained, spiritually depleted, and wondering if anything will ever work.
In this episode, we’re talking about the kind of parenting burnout no one warns you about—and what to do when all your effort still leaves you feeling stuck. If you're walking on eggshells and parenting on empty, this one's for you.
Inside this episode:
Why traditional parenting advice often backfires with emotionally intense kids
The silent toll of “always being on”—and how to start refueling
The truth about effort vs. effectiveness when your child needs more
What your child really needs in their hardest moments (and how to offer it)
How the Calm Connection Parent Coaching Program helps you move from burnout to breakthrough
If you're tired of trying harder and still getting nowhere… take a deep breath, friend. You’re not failing. You're parenting a uniquely wired child who needs something different—and there’s help available.
Make sure you FOLLOW the podcast! A duplicate copy of the podcast was floating around, and when we remedied that problem, it bumped a few followers...and I don't want that to be you! So even if you thought you hit follow, just take a quick second to double-check. That way you won’t miss new episodes or any fun extras we’ve got coming your way.
37. How One Mom Healed Her Brain with Small Movements—And Helps Emotionally Dysregulated and Sensory-Sensitive Kids Too
Season 1 · Episode 37
Thursday, July 3, 2025 • Duration 33:34
What if the key to calming your child’s overwhelmed brain isn’t more discipline, more talking, or more appointments...but small, intentional movement?
In this eye-opening episode, Alma Galvan shares her powerful story of healing after a traumatic brain injury and how the tiniest, most overlooked movements can actually rewire the brain and restore peace.
If your child struggles with emotional intensity, sensory challenges, or regulation, this conversation will give you hope and real tools to start making change...one gentle step at a time.
In this episode, you will learn:
How Alma used small movements to heal her own brain after injury
Why movement can regulate the nervous system more effectively than logic or language
Simple ways to use these strategies with your emotionally intense or sensitive child
How to start small and stay consistent, even on hard parenting days
Want more support and encouragement?
Be sure to join the Parenting With Personality Facebook Group, where we’re having ongoing conversations about calm, connection, and raising emotionally intense kids with confidence and grace.
36. How to Support Executive Functioning During Summer: Calm, Doable Strategies That Actually Work
Season 1 · Episode 36
Thursday, June 26, 2025 • Duration 39:05
Does summer break feel like more chaos than calm? If your child struggles with focus, emotional control, or follow-through—especially without the structure of school—this episode is here to help.
Today I’m joined by Leslie Josel, a leading expert on executive functioning and student success. Together, we’re diving into what summer looks like for kids with executive function challenges—and more importantly, how you can set your child up for success with calm, doable strategies that actually work.
If you’re craving a summer with less nagging, fewer meltdowns, and more peace, this one’s for you.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
What executive functioning really means—and why it matters over summer
Why your child’s struggle with structure isn’t about laziness or defiance
Easy ways to build a summer schedule that reduces stress (not adds to it)
How to increase your child’s independence without constant power struggles
Encouragement and strategies to help you feel confident and capable this summer
35. Why Parenting With Calm and Empathy Feels So Hard When Your Child Is Emotionally Dysregulated or Screaming
Season 1 · Episode 35
Thursday, June 19, 2025 • Duration 20:56
Ever feel like you want to stay calm, respond with empathy, and be the steady one in the storm...but your child is screaming, you’re overstimulated, and you’re about to snap? You’re not alone, and there’s a reason it feels so hard. In this episode, we’re digging into what’s happening in your brain (and your child’s), and what it really takes to parent with empathy in the middle of emotional chaos.
In this episode you'll learn:
The surprising reason empathy disappears when your child is melting down
What your nervous system is doing without your permission
A powerful mindset shift about what empathy actually is
One simple phrase that keeps you grounded during emotional outbursts
Why taking care of yourself is the missing link in responding with empathy
This one is full of hope, practical strategies, and honest encouragement for the moments you feel like you’re falling short.
Listen now and take the next small step toward parenting with more calm, confidence, and connection.
34. DMDD, ADHD, and Anxiety, Oh My! The Real Reasons They’re Melting Down—and What Helps
Season 1 · Episode 34
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 • Duration 29:53
DMDD, ADHD, and anxiety… oh my! If those letters feel like your everyday life and you’re constantly trying to decode what’s really going on behind your child’s big emotions—this episode is your roadmap.
We’re breaking down what’s actually fueling those emotional explosions, how these diagnoses often overlap, and why your go-to parenting responses might not be working (through no fault of your own!). Plus, I’ll walk you through a simple, heart-centered framework that helps you respond with more calm, connection, and clarity—even in the toughest moments.
Grab your coffee, take a deep breath, and join me—we’re going there!
In this episode, you’ll learn:
The surprising ways anxiety, ADHD, and DMDD can look the same on the outside
Why traditional discipline strategies often backfire with emotionally intense kids
What your child’s meltdown is really trying to communicate
A real-life story of how one powerful pause changed everything
A practical framework (H.E.A.R.) to help you respond with empathy and effectiveness
Want more support? Learn more about the Calm Connection Parent Coaching Program at CalmConnectionParent.com or book a free call using the link below!
33. Frustrated with Meltdowns on Vacation? Top Five Hacks to Enjoy A Fun Family Vacation and Manage Emotional Dysregulation
Season 1 · Episode 33
Thursday, June 5, 2025 • Duration 24:26
Does the thought of a family vacation leave you feeling more tense than excited? If you’re parenting a highly sensitive or emotionally intense child, even the idea of travel can bring up anxiety, dread, and a fear of public meltdowns. But what if you could take a vacation that builds connection while managing the emotional dysregulation—without sacrificing your sanity?
In this episode, I’m sharing real-life strategies and calming tools we’ve used in our family of nine to make vacations work—even with kids who struggle with transitions, big feelings, and emotional dysregulation. From packing hacks to powerful mindset shifts, this is your go-to guide for traveling with more peace and less chaos.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why vacations are extra hard for emotionally intense kids
How to prevent meltdowns with simple planning strategies
Tools to create calm and connection while traveling
What to do during a meltdown to support your child
One powerful question that can change the tone of your entire trip
If you’ve ever ended a trip feeling more exhausted than when you started, this episode is for you. Let’s turn the chaos into connection—one small step at a time.
Get your seat in the Calm Connection Parent Coaching Program starting soon. Visit CalmConnectionParent.com
In this episode of the Calm Connection Parenting Podcast, we’re diving into the topic of emotional dysregulation and how you can help your child manage overwhelming emotions to calm down. If you’ve ever faced the challenge of meltdowns, tantrums, or outbursts, this episode is for you.
We’ll explore what emotional dysregulation really is, the science behind it, and how to respond when your child’s emotions take over. Plus, we’ll share 10 effective strategies to help your child calm down in the moment, and proactive steps you can take outside of those high-stress moments to set them up for emotional success.
You’ll walk away with practical tools to not only manage emotional storms but also build a deeper connection with your child, even through the toughest emotional moments.
If you’re ready to shift your approach and support your child’s emotional growth, hit play and let’s get started!
In this episode, you will learn:
Understanding Emotional Dysregulation: Emotional dysregulation can lead to meltdowns, making it harder for children to manage intense emotions.
The Science Behind It: Intense emotions can override a child’s ability to think clearly, impacting their behavior.
Top 10 Calming Strategies: Simple strategies can help you support your child when emotions are overwhelming.
Plan Ahead: Proactive steps can help reduce the likelihood of emotional outbursts in the future.
Reinforce Connection: Strengthening the emotional bond after a meltdown can support long-term emotional growth.
31. Emotional Support Animals: An Effective Tool for Emotional Dysregulation and Highly Sensitive Children
Season 1 · Episode 31
Friday, May 23, 2025 • Duration 28:13
What if a pet could be more than just a companion for your child? For children with heightened emotions or emotional dysregulation, pets can be a lifeline—offering more than just cuddles but playing a crucial role in helping them navigate the emotional ups and downs of everyday life. In today’s episode, I’m sharing a deeply personal story about Sparkles, the cat who was not just a pet, but an emotional support animal for one of our children. Together, we’ll explore the profound impact that emotional support animals can have on children’s well-being and how they can help soothe the storms of their intense emotions.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
The Role of Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): How pets, especially for emotionally intense children, can provide emotional grounding and regulation when no one else can.
The Unbreakable Bond Between Pets and Children: The deep connection that can form between a child and their pet, and how this bond supports emotional growth.
The Science Behind Emotional Healing: How interacting with animals can help reduce stress and anxiety while boosting overall emotional well-being.
Supporting Grief and Loss: What to do when a child experiences the loss of a pet who has been an emotional anchor, and how to help them process their grief.
The Benefits Beyond Cuddles: Why having an emotional support animal might be more critical for highly sensitive children than you think, and the life-changing support they offer.
If your child melts down, shuts down, or struggles to find the words to explain what’s wrong—you’re not alone. And you’re not failing. In this episode, we’re joined by play expert and counselor Deborah Woods to explore how play can become one of the most powerful tools for connection—especially when your child’s emotions feel too big for words.
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be present—and a little playful.
🔑 In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why play is a powerful connector for emotionally intense children
How play helps kids feel safe, seen, and soothed
Simple ways to build connection without adding stress
What to do if play feels awkward or unnatural as a parent
How just 30 minutes a week can begin to transform your relationship
🎧 Listen now and discover how playful presence can bring peace back into your home.
Attend the Calm Connection Parenting Summit Free! Enroll Here!
Discover shows related to Calm Connection Parenting | Neurodivergent, Meltdowns, Emotional Regulation, DMDD, Tantrums, SPD, Defiance, Angry Behaviors, based on actual content similarities. Explore podcasts with similar topics, themes, and formats, backed by real data.
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
*** This podcast and host will not offer medical advice, nor is it intended to take the place of counseling, medical intervention, or treatment. Jami Kirkbride is hereby operating as a parenting coach and will not diagnose or treat clients. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, or mental health provider to meet your immediate and ongoing needs.
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
*** This podcast and host will not offer medical advice, nor is it intended to take the place of counseling, medical intervention, or treatment. Jami Kirkbride is hereby operating as a parenting coach and will not diagnose or treat clients. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, or mental health provider to meet your immediate and ongoing needs.
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
*** This podcast and host will not offer medical advice, nor is it intended to take the place of counseling, medical intervention, or treatment. Jami Kirkbride is hereby operating as a parenting coach and will not diagnose or treat clients. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, or mental health provider to meet your immediate and ongoing needs.
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
*** This podcast and host will not offer medical advice, nor is it intended to take the place of counseling, medical intervention, or treatment. Jami Kirkbride is hereby operating as a parenting coach and will not diagnose or treat clients. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, or mental health provider to meet your immediate and ongoing needs.
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
*** This podcast and host will not offer medical advice, nor is it intended to take the place of counseling, medical intervention, or treatment. Jami Kirkbride is hereby operating as a parenting coach and will not diagnose or treat clients. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, or mental health provider to meet your immediate and ongoing needs.
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
*** This podcast and host will not offer medical advice, nor is it intended to take the place of counseling, medical intervention, or treatment. Jami Kirkbride is hereby operating as a parenting coach and will not diagnose or treat clients. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, or mental health provider to meet your immediate and ongoing needs.
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
*** This podcast and host will not offer medical advice, nor is it intended to take the place of counseling, medical intervention, or treatment. Jami Kirkbride is hereby operating as a parenting coach and will not diagnose or treat clients. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, or mental health provider to meet your immediate and ongoing needs.
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
*** This podcast and host will not offer medical advice, nor is it intended to take the place of counseling, medical intervention, or treatment. Jami Kirkbride is hereby operating as a parenting coach and will not diagnose or treat clients. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, or mental health provider to meet your immediate and ongoing needs.
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
*** This podcast and host will not offer medical advice, nor is it intended to take the place of counseling, medical intervention, or treatment. Jami Kirkbride is hereby operating as a parenting coach and will not diagnose or treat clients. Please consult a doctor, medical professional, or mental health provider to meet your immediate and ongoing needs.
