What do you do when “traditional” parenting and school strategies make things worse, and you're not sure what to do instead?
In this episode, I talk with Eric, dad to an awesome, autistic kiddo with a PDA profile, about what backfired for his family...and what actually helped.
You’ll hear:
- How even unintended pressure can escalate kids with sensitive nervous systems
- Why common behavior-based approaches can backfire.
- What actually helps when a child is in fight-or-flight.
- Why the most challenging, and most impactful, piece is managing your own reactivity as a parent.
While we talk specifically about PDA, the insights in this episode apply to any child whose nervous system escalates under pressure, and any parent who feels like their instincts keep backfiring.
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❤️ FREE guide: Tantrums, & Meltdowns, & Rages...Oh My! The single parent's guide to understanding challenging behaviors
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©️ 2026 Dr. Gila Parenting | All rights reserved
DISCLAIMER: All episodes of Single-Parenting with Connection (NOT Perfection) are for educational and informational purposes only. Although Dr. Gila is a licensed psychologist and certified coach, this podcast and the information discussed within the podcast do not constitute therapy, counseling, coaching, or other professional service, and are not a substitute for professional services including medical or psychological advice. Moreover, the views expressed on the podcast are those of the host and guests. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or applicability of the content.
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