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STEPS Together

STEPS Together

Written by: Debra Johnson
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About this listen

The STEPS for Development podcast offers practical support for adults who are nurturing children's growth and development. Hosted by Debra Johnson, MS, OTR/L, pediatric occupational therapist, parent coach, educator and parent. STEPS Together dives into topics including typical development, neurodevelopmental differences, understanding what lies beneath challenging child behaviors, and exploring strategies that work to improve skills, strengthen relationships and empower parents and caregivers who are invested in helping children thrive and succeed.

© 2026 STEPS Together
Parenting Relationships
Episodes
  • No Resolutions Required: Three Skills for a Hope-Filled New Year
    Jan 16 2026

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind!

    The start of a new year often comes with pressure—to set goals, make resolutions, and “do better.” But what if that’s not what you actually need?

    In this episode, I’m sharing an honest reflection on the ups and downs of the past month, why I needed to pause, and what helped me reconnect with hope and confidence moving forward. Instead of resolutions, I’ve chosen to focus on three essential skills that support growth in real life: resilience, intention, and courage.

    We’ll explore what each of these skills really means, what they look like in everyday moments—especially when you’re balancing your own needs with the needs of others—and how you can begin building them in simple, sustainable ways. Drawing on insights from Brené Brown and a nervous-system–informed perspective, this conversation is grounded, practical, and compassionate.

    If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, or the feeling that you should be doing more—even when you’re already doing so much—this episode is for you. You don’t need a new version of yourself to move forward. You just need the right support and a few skills to carry you through.

    Join me as we take one step at a time—so you can grow your skills, support the child in your life, and move forward with confidence and hope for the future.



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    33 mins
  • Finding Joy in the Chaos: 10 Simple Ways to Find Joy in Everyday Moments
    Dec 26 2025

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind!

    Parenting can feel constant, demanding, and overwhelming—especially when you’re supporting a neurodiverse child. In the midst of routines, meltdowns, therapies, and daily demands, joy can start to feel distant or even unrealistic.

    In this episode of STEPS Together, we shift the focus from “doing more” to noticing, building, and protecting moments of joy that already fit real life. You’ll hear 10 practical, relationship-based ways to experience more joy with your child—without forcing positivity or ignoring challenges.

    We talk about:

    • Why joy doesn’t have to be big, loud, or Pinterest-worthy
    • Celebrating micro-wins and small moments of progress
    • Embedding play, movement, and humor into everyday routines
    • Using shared interests and predictable rituals to deepen connection
    • The importance of your own joy for framing your mindset

    This episode is an invitation to slow down, soften expectations, and reconnect—with yourself and with your child. Because thriving doesn’t come from perfect days; it grows from small, intentional moments of joy, repeated over time.

    ✨ Pick one strategy. Try it this week. Notice what shifts.



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    21 mins
  • When Regulation Falls Apart: A STEPS Guide to Managing Meltdowns
    Dec 18 2025

    Question? Comment? Send a text to let me know what's on your mind!

    Meltdowns are often misunderstood and when we treat them like misbehavior, everyone ends up more dysregulated. In this episode of STEPS Together, we break down the critical difference between tantrums and meltdowns, why that distinction matters, and what your child’s nervous system is communicating when regulation falls apart.

    We'll talk about what causes meltdowns and reframe what it really means to manage a meltdown—not by controlling behavior, but by supporting regulation when your child cannot do it alone.

    This episode walks you through a clear, repeatable STEPS approach to managing meltdowns, including:

    • How to regulate yourself first when emotions run high
    • Why reducing demands helps the nervous system reset
    • What co-regulation without control looks like in real life
    • Practical ways to support your child’s nervous system—and your own—in the moment
    • The importance of Reflect and Repair after the meltdown is over to rebuild safety, connection, and learning

    This conversation isn’t about eliminating meltdowns. It’s about understanding them and responding with intention, so you can get through the worst of times and build skills for change.

    If you’ve ever felt stuck between wanting to help and feeling powerless in the moment, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and a path forward—one step at a time.

    Download the PDF Guide with all the STEPS for managing meltdowns!



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    44 mins
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