243.Feelings First; The Step We Often Skip (and Why It Matters)

When your child is melting down, your instinct is to fix it. To solve it. To make it stop. But here’s the truth—before you can teach regulation, you have to model it. In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom Podcast, Shannon dives deep into why emotional validation is the foundation for every behavioral strategy that actually works.She explains what “feelings first” really looks like in real life, shares real-life scenarios from Jordan (now 29), and offers concrete phrases and resets to help your child feel safe before you address behavior. You’ll also hear about her upcoming book, When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting an Autistic Child, coming in 2026 — written straight from her heart for moms just like you. Because when you learn to see the feeling before the behavior, you begin to change everything — startingwith yourself. 🎧 Listen now wherever you stream podcasts. 💙 Connect | Coach | Community: www.notyouraverageautismmom.com 🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection. We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families. P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership. Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠⁠ Additional Resources: Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directlyat ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ Have you listened to these episodes yet? ⁠133.Beyond Helicopter Parenting, Fostering Independence 212. When Progress Pauses; Regression 101