254: The Holiday Meltdown Survival Guide (Before It’s Too Late)

Holiday season = pressure cooker for kids and parents. In this episode, Lisa explains why behavior often spikes during gatherings and travel, and how to see meltdowns as communication from a dysregulated nervous system. You’ll learn a simple 3-question framework to decode what’s underneath the behavior, meet core needs without rewarding the meltdown, and hold clear limits with empathy. Expect practical language, real-life examples, and scripts you can use today for calmer celebrations and stronger connection.

What You'll Learn:

• The “invisible backpack” of the holidays: how routine changes, sensory overload, social demands, and excitement drain kids’ regulation—even when they’re having fun.
• The 3-Question Framework to use in the moment:

1. What might my child be feeling that they can’t say?
2. What need is underneath this behavior?
3. How can I meet the need without rewarding the behavior?

• How to validate and hold boundaries at the same time: say no to the behavior and yes to the feelings.
• Why not to take it personally: separating your worth from your child’s dysregulation so you can stay calm and lead.
• Support for strong-willed kids: extra strategies for autonomy, predictability, downtime, and planned breaks at events.
• Ready-to-use scripts for transitions like getting dressed for Grandma’s, leaving the party, or ending screen time—plus “signal plans” kids can use to request a quiet reset with you.