113. From Fun to Done: Ending Activities Without a Battle

Does your child resist every transition—turning simple moments like leaving the park or ending screen time into power struggles? You're not alone. In this short episode of the weekly podcast, we’re talking about how to move from fun to done—with fewer meltdowns and more calm & peaceful parenting.

You’ll learn how to stop what I call the “coo-coo cycle” of commands and consequences—and instead step into the role of C.E.O. (Connection, Encourage Cooperation, Ownership) when it comes to transitions.

Here’s the 4-step gentle parenting approach we’ll explore:

1. Connection First
   Come alongside your child and notice what they’ve been enjoying. For example:
   “Wow, you’ve been having so much fun building that sandcastle!”
   This builds parent-child connection and helps their brain shift gears more smoothly.
2. The “Last Thing” Cue
   Like in Daniel Tiger, give a gentle 2–5 minute heads-up and let your child choose their “last thing.” This gives them a sense of control and supports kids with big anxiety & emotions.
3. Empowering Choices
   Use playful, clear choices to make cooperation more fun. Instead of “We have to go,” try:
   “Do you want to hop or gallop to the car?”
   These simple parenting strategies keep your tone kind while keeping limits clear. (From the "Empowering statements" handout)
4. Two Roads
   If resistance continues, offer two clear options with natural outcomes:
   “You can walk to the car or I can help your body get there. You choose.”
   This tool, inspired by the What Should Danny Do? books, keeps things positive while holding boundaries.

This episode is full of parenting tips & tools that work beautifully with toddlers, neurodivergent children, and any child who finds transitions tough. It’s not about being strict—it’s about gentle discipline that helps kids feel seen, safe, and supported.

✨ Looking for more strategies? Check out Episode 111 and Episode 112 for more summer parenting tools.
🎧 And join us next week as we talk about how to support your child when they cry at drop-off.

✨Want more?

1) Use this link for a FREE 20 min clarity call with Sustainable Parenting.

2) Download the FREE pdf. on getting kids to listen.

3) Buy a 3 session Coaching Bundle (saving you $100) - for THREE 30-min sessions 1:1 with ME, where we get right to the heart of your challenges, and give you small, powerful shifts that make a huge difference fast.