Many parents feel like they are constantly reacting to their child’s behaviour while running on empty themselves. In this conversation, I sit down with Danielle C. Baker to talk about what actually helps when parenting feels overwhelming, especially when neurodivergent kids are part of the picture.

Danielle has a fascinating background that started in physics, moved into early childhood education, and eventually led her to working directly with families who are struggling, exhausted, and trying to support kids with complex needs.

A big theme in this episode is something I talk about often on Energy + Hours: parents cannot pour from an empty cup. When we are dysregulated, exhausted, and stuck in survival mode, it becomes much harder to show up as the parent we want to be.

Danielle works directly with parents of neurodivergent children and shares what she sees every day. Families trying their best. Kids who need support. Parents who are carrying far more than anyone realizes.

We talk about practical ways to shift the focus from constant correction and crisis management toward noticing micro wins, building connection, and creating moments that actually strengthen the parent child relationship.

We also talk about the pressure parents put on themselves to “do self care properly,” and why that often backfires.

This is a grounded conversation about real parenting, real stress, and the small shifts that can make family life feel a little more manageable.

In this episode we talk about:• Why so many parents of neurodivergent kids feel stuck in survival mode

• What Danielle learned after nearly two decades working in childcare

• The hidden impact of constant stress on parents and families

• How focusing only on problems changes the way we see our kids

• The power of noticing micro wins in everyday parenting• Why traditional self care advice often adds more pressure for parents

• How small moments of connection can change the tone of a whole day

• Using “time confetti” moments to reconnect with your child

About Danielle C. BakerDanielle C. Baker works with parents, educators, and professionals to support children’s development and family wellbeing. With a background in physics and early childhood education, her work focuses on helping parents better understand their children, particularly neurodivergent kids, while also supporting the wellbeing of the parents themselves.

Her approach blends child development, practical parenting tools, and a deep understanding of the pressures families face today.

Connect with Daniellehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/danielleconnected

https://www.beingconnected.ca

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnwgKvwbvlmTHTQeQQyCjEw

Connect with Jill If this episode sparked something, take a screenshot, share it to your stories, and tag me — I LOVE seeing what resonates.

And if you’re craving more tools for time, energy, rest, and personal rhythms, come hang out over on Substack or tune in next week for more Energy + Hours.

• Website: https://www.jillwright.ca

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/energyandhours