Parenting—especially adoptive parenting—is beautiful, messy, exhausting, and overwhelming, often all at the same time. You’re doing the best you can to help your child navigate their big emotions, but here’s the truth: you can’t help them regulate if you’re falling apart. So, what does it mean to stay regulated? And do you have a Safety Plan for yourself so you know what to do for you when things start breaking down?

In this episode, I walk you through what regulation really looks like (hint: it’s not about being calm or happy). I also share practical steps for creating your own safety plan—a personal roadmap for recognizing when things are breaking down and how to reset before everything spirals. Because you matter too.

Here’s the best part: creating your safety plan doesn’t have to be complicated. I’ve got a list of thoughtful, practical questions to help you get started. If you want me to send them directly to you, just email me with "Safety Plan" in the subject line, and I’ll send you the questions right away!

📧 Email me at: wendyleejohnsoncoaching@gmail.com

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. When you have a plan to regulate yourself, you can show up as the steady, safe presence your child needs. Let’s start building your safety plan today!

In this episode, we’re diving into the dynamic of connection vs. protection mode—a concept that impacts both adoptive parents and their kids. We’ll explore why all behavior makes sense when we look beneath the surface, how protection behaviors often stem from a desperate need for connection, and why co-regulation is the key to helping our kids (and ourselves) move from survival to connection.

We’ll also tackle the tough stuff: how to recognize when we as parents slip into protection mode, practical strategies for staying grounded, and how moments of repair can strengthen your relationship with your child.

This conversation is real, relatable, and packed with hope. You don’t have to be a perfect parent to make a lasting impact—all it takes is showing up with empathy and a willingness to connect. Tune in and let’s navigate this journey together!

Shift To Your Essentials: Cut Through The Noise is a podcast dedicated to helping adoptive parents cut through the noise, overwhelm, and pressure of doing it all. Together, we’ll explore how focusing on the essentials can transform your parenting, your family dynamics, and how you feel about yourself and your child.

We’ll dive into strategies for identifying what matters most, creating meaningful connections, and letting go of the things that don’t serve your family. Whether you’re feeling stuck, stressed, or just looking for a clearer path forward, this podcast offers encouragement, actionable tips, and a reminder that you don’t have to do this alone.

Parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present and intentional. It’s time to focus on what truly matters. Let’s do this together. 🎧

New episodes weekly! Subscribe now and join the journey.