BEST of Summer Series: Stop Chasing Calm: The Truth About Regulation
Jun 04, 2026☀️ BEST of Summer Series ☀️
This episode is part of our BEST of Summer Series, where I’m revisiting some of the most impactful, most downloaded, and most shared episodes from the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast.
Originally released as Episode 234, Stop Chasing Calm: The Truth About Regulation continues to be one of the conversations that resonates most with moms raising autistic children.
Whether you're watching for the first time or coming back for a refresher, I hope it gives you exactly what you need today.
In this episode, I break down why "just stay calm" is one of the most misleading pieces of advice parents of autistic children hear—and what to focus on instead.
Calm and regulation are not the same thing, and confusing them can leave you feeling like you're failing.
You'll learn:
✔ Why chasing calm often backfires
✔ The difference between calm and regulation
✔ How children instantly pick up when our words and our bodies don't match
✔ Why your regulation becomes the anchor your child needs
✔ Practical co-regulation strategies you can start using today
✔ Simple ways to create space before reacting
If you've ever felt like you can't keep it together during meltdowns, this episode will help you shift your focus from perfection to connection and from chasing calm to building true regulation.
With more than 270 episodes available, there's never been a better time to explore the podcast library.
🎧 Please 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 and please share it with another autism mom who needs to hear it.
Additional Resources: Looking for deeper support, coaching, and connection with moms who truly understand this life? Visit Not Your Average Autism Mom to check out all the ways we can help you.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like your mind won’t shut off — this workshop was created with you in mind. The Stepping Out of Survival Mode RESET Workshop is a coaching experience designed for moms raising autistic children who feel like their nervous system is always "on."
No pressure, just something to explore if you need it.
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If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
🎧 Listen to the Not Your Average Autism Mom Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, iHeart Radio, YouTube, and your favorite podcast platform.
📚 And a little personal update...
This summer, Shannon will be spending extra time working on her upcoming book:
Loving Through the Unexpected: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting Autistic Children
A project straight from her heart and inspired by nearly three decades of raising her son Jordan and supporting thousands of moms around the world.
