PDA most commonly stands for Pathological Demand Avoidance.  But Dr. Casey Ehrlich prefers to call it Pervasive Drive for Autonomy or Protective Demand Avoidance.  Today, Dr. Ehrlich unpacks why understanding PDA and nervous system responses starts with supporting children's drive for autonomy and equality.

She and Dr. Emily also discuss the alarming issue of burnout in children, and the transformative power of play therapy in regulating emotions.

If you're looking to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for neurodivergent children, this episode is a must listen.

---

Casey Ehrlich, Ph. D. (she/her) is a social scientist, parent coach and educator, and the CEO and founder of At Peace Parents, LLC.

---
Sign up for Dr. Emily's weekly newsletter at www.learnwithdremily.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit learnwithdremily.substack.com.

Learn with Dr. Emily is edited by Earfluence.

Helpful Resources
Parent Workshops - https://learnwithdremily.substack.com/s/parent-workshops
Professional Development - Bring Dr. Emily to Your School - https://www.learnwithdremily.com/schools
For Teachers - Regulation Roster and Reframing Behavior Worksheet - https://www.learnwithdremily.com/roster or https://www.learnwithdremily.com/reframingbehavior
Parent Referral Tracker - https://www.learnwithdremily.com/tracker