All About Meltdowns: Episode 227

In this episode of The Peaceful Parenting Podcast, I speak with Hayden Ahlbrandt, a certified Synergetic Play Therapist. Hayden shares some really helpful thoughts and strategies on both how we can prevent meltdowns and how best to support our child—and ourselves—once we find ourselves with a meltdown on our hands. We focus on connection, co-regulation, mindfulness, and creating safety. Want the podcast ad-free? Become a Substack Supporter: https://substack.com/@sarahrosensweet We talk about: 00:00 – Sarah introduces Hayden Ahlbrandt, certified Synergetic Play Therapist. Overview of meltdowns, regulation, and co-regulation 05:25 – Viewing behavior through a nervous system lens 10:30 – Understanding Meltdowns Through the "Pop Bottle" Analogy 12:00 – Why some days kids can handle more than others 1:00 – “Regulation Is Connection to Self” - Helping kids discover what naturally regulates them 20:00 – Why Regulation Tools Need to be Practiced Outside Meltdowns 22:00 – Preventing Meltdowns 24:00 – The Three Rs: Regulate, Relate, Reason 30:00 – Mindfulness and Co-Regulation 32:30 – The Parent’s Nervous System 36:00 – Aggression During Meltdowns 38:30 – Making the Environment Feel Safer 42:00 – Parenting Advice Hayden Wishes He’d Known Earlier Resources mentioned in this episode: Hayden’s website https://www.lowtidecoaching.com Hayden’s IG @lowtideplaytherapist Synergetic Play Therapy Institute Evelyn & Bobbie bras: https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.co... Yoto Screen Free Audio Book Player https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.co... The Peaceful Parenting Membership https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.co... Connect with Sarah Rosensweet: Instagram:   / sarahrosensweet   Facebook Group:   / peacefulparentingfreegroup   YouTube: Peaceful Parenting with Sarah Rosensweet @peacefulparentingwithsarah4194 Website: https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.com Join us on Substack: https://substack.com/@sarahrosensweet Newsletter: https://reimaginepeacefulparenting.co... Book a short consult or coaching session call: https://book-with-sarah-rosensweet.as...