
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
Jami Kirkbride LPC, Parenting Coach, Specializing in Child Mental Health
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!
Connect on our main website: ParentingWithPersonality.com
Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
Download the Parenting With Personality APP on Google Play or Apple Store
Follow on InstagramLearn about the Calm Connection Parent Coaching Program
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtip #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors
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12-- Parenting Through the Holidays: When Families Don't Understand the Struggle
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
12/05/24 • 30 min
As the holidays approach, many parents of uniquely wired children feel the weight of family expectations and the pressure of navigating family gatherings. You want to enjoy the holidays and make memories, but instead, you’re dreading the judgment and misunderstandings from family members who just don’t get it.
If your child struggles with behaviors that others don’t understand — meltdowns, emotional outbursts, or intense reactions — it can feel isolating and overwhelming. You might find yourself constantly explaining, defending, or even avoiding certain situations to keep the peace.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing tools to help you navigate these challenging moments with confidence. You’ll learn a 4-step strategy that will help you:
✨ Feel — Acknowledge your emotions and gain clarity
✨ Accept — Embrace your child’s unique needs without shame
✨ Clarify — Communicate your child’s needs to your family
✨ Express — Set healthy boundaries and advocate for your child
These steps will help you approach family gatherings with confidence, reduce stress, and create understanding among family members. While you can’t change how others may view your child, you can control how you advocate and set boundaries.
If you’ve been dreading the holidays because you feel misunderstood, this episode is for you! Tune in for practical strategies to navigate this season with more peace, understanding, and confidence.
Listen now to gain the tools you need to make this holiday season smoother for both you and your child!
For the Behind the Behavior Guide mentioned in this episode: CalmConnectionParent.com/behindthebehaviors
- Get the resources mentioned at: CalmConnectionParent.com/resource
- Book a call to find out more about Calm Connection Coaching Program.
- Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
- Find out more: ParentingWithPersonality.com
- 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.
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtips #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors #childpersonality #personalitytypes

13-- What You Need to Know: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Support for Parenting DMDD
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
12/11/24 • 34 min
Does your child seem to experience emotions on overdrive—outbursts that can be shocking, irritability that feels constant, and meltdowns that leave everyone drained? Parenting a child with these challenges can feel overwhelming and isolating, but you’re not alone. In this episode, we’re shedding light on Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), a condition that might explain these intense behaviors. Together, we’ll uncover how you can better understand your child’s struggles and begin taking steps toward calm and connection in your family.
In this episode, you will learn:
- What is DMDD? A closer look at this often-misunderstood childhood condition and how it impacts behavior and emotions.
- Spot the Signs: Learn to recognize the patterns of emotional dysregulation and meltdowns that might point to DMDD.
- Understanding the Diagnosis: We’ll talk about how DMDD is diagnosed, the criteria used, and why it’s important to differentiate it from other conditions.
- Finding Support: Discover the tools, resources, and strategies that can help your child thrive—and support you as their parent on this challenging journey.
This episode is here to provide the clarity, encouragement, and practical insights you need to better navigate your child’s emotions and behaviors. Let’s walk this path together!
- Get the resources mentioned at: CalmConnectionParent.com/resource
- Book a call to find out more about Calm Connection Coaching Program.
- Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
- Find out more: ParentingWithPersonality.com
- 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.
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtips #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors #childpersonality #personalitytypes

11-- Taking the Chaos Out of Christmas: 3 Practical Tips for Parents
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
11/27/24 • 29 min
Are you dreaming of a calm and joyful Christmas, but feeling frazzled rather than festive? Between juggling gift lists, family gatherings, and managing your child's emotions and behaviors, the holidays can quickly turn into Christmas chaos. But it doesn’t have to be that way!
In this episode, I’m sharing 3 practical tips to take the chaos out of Christmas and help you reclaim the joy and connection you’re longing for. Whether you’re managing meltdowns and challenging behaviors, balancing busy schedules, or just trying to create a meaningful season, these tips will help you approach the holidays with calm and intention.
✨ Here’s a sneak peek at what we’ll cover:
- How to align your holiday plans with your family’s unique wiring, personalities, and needs.
- The magic of a “Family Holiday Huddle” to simplify, connect, and plan.
- Why the smallest joys (like hot cocoa nights!) often matter the most.
- How to use the “Powerful Pause” and the “Necessary No” to avoid holiday overwhelm.
🎁 Let’s trade the stress for more joy, connection, and a season that feels just right for your family’s needs. Tune in and make this Christmas the calmest one yet!
CalmConnectionParent.com/behindthebehaviors
- Get the resources mentioned at: CalmConnectionParent.com/resource
- Book a call to find out more about Calm Connection Coaching Program.
- Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
- Find out more: ParentingWithPersonality.com
- 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.
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtips #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors #childpersonality #personalitytypes

10--When Holidays Hurt: Managing Feelings Amid the Festivities
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
11/21/24 • 29 min
Does the holiday hustle make you feel more ‘bah humbug’ than ‘ho, ho, ho’? If so, you’re not alone! Holidays can be as full of emotions as they are with festive lights. So, if you’re looking for a holiday season that balances joy and the real feels, you’re in the right place. Let’s talk about how to navigate holiday gatherings, embrace your own pace, and find little sparks of joy—even when holidays feel a little heavy.
In this episode, we’re diving into the emotions that often surface during the holiday season. While the world around us seems merry and bright, many of us feel the weight of stress, loss, parenting challenges, or unmet expectations. If the holidays feel more overwhelming than joyful, this conversation is for you. Learn how to prepare your heart with H-E-A-R-T!
Together, we’ll explore:
- Why the holidays can feel heavier than they look—and how to lighten the load
- Simple strategies to manage stress and emotional overwhelm this season
- The secret to finding joy even when the festivities feel hard
- A gentle reminder of what truly matters during the holidays
Tune in for heartfelt insights, practical tips, and encouragement to embrace the season with peace and purpose—even when holidays hurt.
- Get the resources mentioned at: CalmConnectionParent.com/resource
- Book a call to find out more about Calm Connection Coaching Program.
- Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
- Find out more: ParentingWithPersonality.com
- 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.
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtips #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors #childpersonality #personalitytypes

18-- Why Traditional Parenting Methods Don’t Work for Emotionally Intense Kids (And What Does)
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
02/21/25 • 27 min
If you’ve ever thought, "Why does NOTHING work with my child?!"—you’re not alone. I used to think I had this whole parenting thing figured out, but then life threw me a curveball: a child with ADHD, mood disorder, big emotions, and challenging behaviors.
And let me tell you... the traditional advice? It failed us completely. But when I made one simple shift, EVERYTHING changed. Today, I’m sharing exactly what that shift was and how you can make it too—because parenting your emotionally intense child doesn’t have to feel this hard.
In this episode, you will learn:
- Your child’s behavior is telling you something—are you listening?
- Why timeouts, consequences, and ‘being consistent’ may not be the answer.
- The powerful shift that changes everything (and makes parenting easier).
- How your response can either escalate or calm intense emotions.
- The first step to creating a home that feels calmer and more connected.
➡️ Ready to shift from overwhelm to understanding? Let's connect!
- Get the resources mentioned at: CalmConnectionParent.com/resource
- Book a call to find out more about Calm Connection Coaching Program.
- Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
- Find out more: ParentingWithPersonality.com
- 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.
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtips #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors #childpersonality #personalitytypes

19-- Three Most Common Triggers for Emotionally Intense Kids and What You Can Do to Help
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
02/28/25 • 30 min
Have you ever had parenting whiplash? You know, when your child goes from laughing to losing it in a matter of seconds? Maybe it’s because you picked the wrong-colored cup, said ‘no’ to a snack, or asked them to turn off their game—suddenly, you’re dealing with a full-on emotional eruption, and you have no idea how you got here.
But what if I told you there are actually patterns behind these emotional explosions? And once you see them, you can’t unsee them! Today, we’re breaking down three of the most common hidden triggers behind emotional outbursts—and, most importantly, what you can do in the moment to keep the peace and help your child regulate their emotions. Let’s jump in!
In this episode, you will learn:
· There’s more to emotional outbursts than meets the eye. What if your child isn’t just overreacting—but reacting to something deeper?
· Sometimes, the world feels too big, too loud, and too much. One common trigger might be hiding in plain sight.
· Changes and transitions can be harder than you think. The way you move your child from one thing to the next could be making things worse—or much easier.
· Even small surprises can lead to big emotions. A simple shift in how you approach the unexpected can make all the difference.
· Your response matters more than you realize. Once you see these triggers, you can’t unsee them—and you’ll have new tools to help.
Want to know how to recognize these triggers and prevent meltdowns before they start? Then tune in!
- Get the resources mentioned at: CalmConnectionParent.com/resource
- Book a call to find out more about Calm Connection Coaching Program.
- Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
- Find out more: ParentingWithPersonality.com
- 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.
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtips #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors #childpersonality #personalitytypes

22-- How Sensory Processing Issues Impact Highly Sensitive and Emotionally Intense Kids: Our Family's Story
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
03/20/25 • 34 min
What if everything you thought you knew about parenting needed to be reimagined? When we started understanding sensory processing issues in our child, it felt like so many things clicked into place. Today, I’m sharing a deeply personal chapter of our parenting journey. As parents of a highly sensitive and emotionally intense child, we faced struggles that we didn’t fully understand until we discovered sensory processing issues.
In this episode, l'll walk you through how our family came to understand the impact of sensory overload, and how it changed the way we parented and connected with our child. From emotional outbursts to seemingly defiant behavior, we uncovered the underlying causes of our child's struggles and found practical ways to support him. If you’ve ever felt lost or overwhelmed while parenting a child with big emotions, this episode is for you. Tune in for insights, strategies, and a little hope from a family who’s been there.
In this episode, you will learn:
- Recognizing the Hidden Struggles: Understanding what was really going on beneath the surface was a game-changer for us.
- The Connection Between Emotions and Sensory Overload: We learned how our child’s emotions weren’t always what they seemed.
- The Power of Family Support: Navigating this journey required us to lean on each other and get professional guidance.
- Small Changes, Big Impact: A few simple adjustments made a world of difference for our child and our family dynamic.
- Shifting Our Perspective: The key to better parenting was seeing things from our child’s point of view.
- Get the resources mentioned at: CalmConnectionParent.com/resource
- Book a call to find out more about Calm Connection Coaching Program.
- Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
- Find out more: ParentingWithPersonality.com
- 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.
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtips #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors #childpersonality #personalitytypes

15-- New Year, New Focus: How to Thrive as A Parent of A Uniquely Wired Child
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
12/29/24 • 34 min
Do New Year’s resolutions leave you feeling stressed or discouraged? 🙋♀️ If you’re a parent of a uniquely wired child, you know it’s not about just checking things off a to-do list—it’s about growing, learning, and adapting to what really matters. In this episode, I’m sharing a fresh approach: a simple tool that will guide you, motivate you, and keep you moving forward—without the added pressure! Think of it as your parenting compass, helping you navigate the challenges with a sense of calm and purpose. Curious? Tune in so you can start the year with intention! 💖
Ready to kick off the new year with purpose, clarity, and focus? Let’s leave behind the pressure of New Year’s resolutions and dive into a simple, powerful tool that will help you create meaningful progress this year.
In this episode, I’m sharing how to:
- Assess where you are without getting stuck in overwhelm.
- Commit to a word that will guide your parenting journey with intention.
- Take action on your goals, even when life gets busy!
It’s time to stop just surviving and start thriving. Tune in and discover how one word can transform your year and your parenting.
Looking for parenting support in this coming year, then I have a gift for you! Check out CalmConnectionParent.com/sale to see the coaching packages and resources I've made available with the special New Year's Deals! Investing in your family is a gift that can keep on giving!
- Get the resources mentioned at: CalmConnectionParent.com/resource
- Book a call to find out more about Calm Connection Coaching Program.
- Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
- Find out more: ParentingWithPersonality.com
- 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.
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtips #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors #childpersonality #personalitytypes

16-- A Parent's Roadmap to Understanding Emotionally Intense Children: Key Factors Behind Challenging Behaviors
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
01/09/25 • 36 min
Ever feel like your child’s emotions are on a wild roller coaster, and you’re just trying to hang on for dear life? Trust me, you’re not alone! In today’s episode, we’re going to explore the world of emotional intensity in kids—and the avenues you can pursue in navigating a tricky path through the intense emotions and behaviors. Think of this episode as your parenting roadmap to turning emotional eruptions into meaningful connections. Grab a notebook—this one’s a game changer!
In this episode, you will learn:
- Emotional Intensity Is Part of the Design--Your child’s big emotions might be more purposeful than you think.
- Look Beyond the Behavior-- There’s more to your child’s reactions than meets the eye!
- Sometimes Parenting Requires ‘Extra’— Some children need a little more from you—and here’s the reason why.
- Create a Path to Connection-- Understanding your child’s needs can shift the dynamic in surprising ways.
- The Power in Their Struggles-- What seems challenging now could become a strength down the road.
Check out the limited time specials on coaching program and resources at: CalmConnectionParent.com/sale
- Get the resources mentioned at: CalmConnectionParent.com/resource
- Book a call to find out more about Calm Connection Coaching Program.
- Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
- Find out more: ParentingWithPersonality.com
- 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.
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtips #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors #childpersonality #personalitytypes

21-- When Emotional Dysregulation Affects the Whole Family: Five Keys to Help Siblings Survive and Thrive
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting
03/13/25 • 28 min
When your child is living with chronic emotional dysregulation, it can feel like the whole family is walking on eggshells. But what about the siblings? They’re right there in the middle, trying to process the chaos without a roadmap. What happens to them?
In this episode, I’m diving into five essential keys to help your children—both the one with emotional intensity and their siblings—build emotional resilience, find calm, and thrive.
If you're a parent trying to balance it all, this episode is for you. Together, we’ll explore how to support your children through the emotional rollercoaster and help them feel seen, heard, and supported.
Listen now and learn how to turn the chaos into connection!
In this episode, you will learn:
- How emotional dysregulation affects the whole family.
- Five strategies to help siblings thrive.
- The power of staying calm in the chaos.
- Why communication with siblings is key.
- Creating stability for everyone in your family.
Looking for a support group of like minded parents? Be sure to join the Parenting With Personality Facebook group!
- Get the resources mentioned at: CalmConnectionParent.com/resource
- Book a call to find out more about Calm Connection Coaching Program.
- Join our online Facebook support group: Parenting With Personality Group
- Find out more: ParentingWithPersonality.com
- 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.
#parenting #highlysensitivechild #adhd #dmdd #parentcoaching #child anxiety #sensoryprocessing #christianparenting #parentingtips #parentingchallenges #meltdowns #challengingbehaviors #childpersonality #personalitytypes
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FAQ
How many episodes does Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting have?
Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting currently has 25 episodes available.
What topics does Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting cover?
The podcast is about Health & Fitness, Christian Parenting, Parenting, Kids & Family, Mental Health, Podcasts and Adhd.
What is the most popular episode on Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting?
The episode title '16-- A Parent's Roadmap to Understanding Emotionally Intense Children: Key Factors Behind Challenging Behaviors' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting?
The average episode length on Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting is 30 minutes.
How often are episodes of Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting released?
Episodes of Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting?
The first episode of Calm Connection Parenting- Meltdowns, Challenging Behaviors, Parenting Struggles, Connected Parenting was released on Sep 30, 2024.
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