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.

💛 Download my FREE Calm Parent Checklist

Support the show

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 my community for parents raising PDA Autistic children (Currently For Founding Members!)

LEARN MORE →

✨ Download my free guides
Early Signs Guide → CLICK HERE
Calm Parent Checklist → CLICK HERE
PDA Parenting Guide → CLICK HERE

✨ Connect with me on Instagram, TikTok & YouTube @chantal.hewitt

Reach out if you need anything- Say hello, share your story :) → [email protected]

Chantal x