Your child is melting down in the grocery store. You've tried consequences, bribing, reasoning—nothing works. You leave red-faced, heart racing, wondering what you're doing wrong. Here's the truth: you're not using the wrong strategy, you're using the wrong playbook.

In this episode, Dr. Veronica Schiltz and Dr. Serena Coffman reveal the neurological difference between tantrums and meltdowns—and why it changes everything about how you respond. If traditional discipline keeps backfiring, this episode will finally help you understand what's really happening in your child's overwhelmed nervous system.

What You'll Learn:

• The critical difference between behavioral tantrums and neurological meltdowns
• Why your child's brain goes "offline" during sensory overload (and why reasoning doesn't work)
• The three-layer breakdown: input, processing, and output in your child's nervous system
• Warning signs that signal your child's bucket is about to overflow
• Why punishments, ignoring, and giving in all backfire during true meltdowns
• The "perfect storm" of prenatal stress, birth trauma, and early challenges that load the nervous system
• Practical strategies for supporting your child in the moment (tight squeeze hugs, reducing stimulation, safe withdrawal)
• How nervous system scans reveal hidden stress patterns affecting behavior

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

00:25 The Grocery Store Meltdown Scenario

01:11 Understanding Meltdowns vs. Tantrums

01:51 Neurological Shutdowns and Parenting Strategies

06:20 The Perfect Storm: Prenatal and Birth Stress

11:15 Behavioral Challenges and Nervous System Stress

17:00 Practical Tips for Managing Meltdowns

Resources Mentioned:

• PX Docs Directory

Connect with Veronica:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook

Connect with Serena:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook