As Christian parents, we desire for our kids to listen and obey the rules we set out for their safety and good, but what do we do when they refuse?

Whether you have a child on the spectrum, an obstinate toddler, or just a typical strong-willed kid—we’ve all been there. We find ourselves raising our voices, demanding compliance, and feeling defeated when our kids spiral into a full-fledged meltdown.

Greg and Jess are getting real about the difference between tantrums (where kids are totally in control) and meltdowns (where they're absolutely not). Trust us, understanding this will be a game-changer for your autism parenting journey and your faith-based approach to discipline.

Here's what we're diving into:

• Why your typical parenting tricks aren't working with neurodivergent children (and it's not your fault!)

• The one question that changes how you respond to autism meltdowns and challenging behavior

• 3 simple Christian parenting principles that actually work with kids on the autism spectrum

Our go-to strategies:

1. Relationship Over Compliance - Sometimes you gotta choose your battles

2. Choice Over Demand - Two options, both ones you're cool with

3. Love Over Fear - Because scared kids don't learn, they just survive

Whether you're dealing with a toddler who won't cooperate, a child with autism in a meltdown mode, or a typical teen who wants to push every button you have—this one's for Christian parents seeking God's wisdom in power struggles.

Full Spectrum Parent is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Raising a child with autism solo? You're not alone!

Join us for Episode 95 of the Full Spectrum Parent Podcast as host Jessica Hurlbut chats with Katie Blackburn - writer, teacher, and single mom to six kids, including her 10-year-old with severe autism.

Katie gets real about the everyday challenges of autism parenting without a partner, sharing practical tips for managing therapies, school struggles, and finding moments of joy along the way. She also discusses her children’s book, "The Very Best Baseball Game" which offers both comfort and inspiration.

Whether you're flying solo or just need some autism parenting encouragement, this episode delivers our signature mix of HELP, HUMOR, and HOPE that will leave you feeling seen and supported on your special needs journey.

Full Spectrum Parent is proud to be part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network.

For more practical and spiritual guidance on your parenting journey, visit www.christianparenting.org

To grab the CP Gift Guide visit https://www.christianparenting.org/articles/gifts/

To learn more about Katie Blackburn and her newest book, visit www.katiemblackburn.com

#AutismParenting #SingleParenting #SpecialNeedsSupport #AutismMom #SpecialNeedsParenting

Happiness is circumstantial. But joy comes from Jesus—it’s not based upon our circumstances.

Yet one of the hardest hurdles to conquer in our parenting is finding joy when life doesn’t change.

Episode 94 is part 2 of our 3-Part Series, Finding God in our Pain.

Christian Author Will Acuff joins the Full Spectrum Parent to share his journey of parenting a child with autism.

After hitting a wall of emotional, physical, and spiritual exhaustion, Will shares how the Holy Spirit met him in his pain. Now, he offers hope and direction for others on how to stay rooted in Christ when the storms rage around you.

Learn more about Will’s newest book: No Elevator to Everest at www.noelevatortoeverest.com

Full Spectrum Parent is proud to be part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. For more practical and spiritual guidance on your parenting journey, visit www.christianparenting.org