Season 2, Episode 17: Letting Go of Self-Blame – Grace Over Guilt in 2026 Walk With Me Mom: From Burnout to Balance

We’re deep into our 2026 Graceful Parenting: Thriving with Autism series, and today we tackle one of the heaviest burdens autism moms carry: self-blame.

That relentless voice whispering, “If I had started therapies sooner… fought harder… been more patient… structured better… given each child exactly what they needed… maybe things would be different.” If your chest tightens hearing that, this episode is your gentle release.

Nicki gets raw about her own layered guilt—replaying meltdowns with her non-verbal son, wondering if she missed signs or mishandled moments; feeling stretched thin with her brilliant, creative, ADHD-wired daughter who’s so much like her “mini-me,” yet worrying she couldn’t always give her the focused connection she deserved. The pull between children with different needs creates a special kind of guilt that says you’re failing someone no matter what.

But here’s the truth Nicki learned (and wants you to hold tight): Frustration, needing breaks, imperfect days, divided attention—none of it means you’re failing. It means you’re human, loving fiercely in a complex reality.

Graceful parenting isn’t perfection. It’s showing up with intention, learning as you go, and extending yourself the same compassion you give your kids.

Nicki shares 5 practical steps to release the weight:

1. Name the narrative out loud (“I didn’t handle that well”)
2. Separate intention from outcome—your love and effort count
3. Reframe the story (“I showed up with what I had—that’s enough”)
4. Look for evidence of grace in tiny daily wins
5. Give yourself permission to be imperfect—it models resilience for your children

Today’s Grace Affirmation My child’s challenges are not my fault. I parent with love, intention, and care. I replace self-blame with self-compassion.

Faith Encouragement “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” —Romans 8:1 (NIV)

No condemnation for your parenting. Not for the hard days, the missed signs, the breaks you took, or the things you couldn’t afford or control. God’s grace covers every “should” you’ve carried. You didn’t cause your child’s autism or ADHD. You are the reason they are loved, seen, advocated for, and held.

Resources & Support Ready to release self-blame and parent with more peace, clarity, and grace? → One-on-one coaching tailored to your family: www.walkwithmemom.com → Join the private community for autism moms—a judgment-free space to breathe and connect → Email Nicki directly: info@nickibradley.com (she reads every message)

You are a good mom. You’re parenting with deep intention and love—even when it feels uneven. You don’t have to carry the guilt alone.

Next week: Honoring exhaustion without guilt—because rest is part of the love you give.

#AutismMom #GracefulParenting #SelfCompassion #Neurodiversity #SpecialNeedsParenting #FromBurnoutToBalance

Please email any questions, comments, to info@nickibradley.com

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Visit: www.walkwithmemom.com

Season 2, Episode 16: Letting Go of Typical Parenting Standards Walk With Me Mom: From Burnout to Balance

In this powerful kickoff to our 2026 Graceful Parenting Series, Nicki confronts the crushing weight of “typical” parenting expectations—the unspoken rulebook that says kids must hit every milestone on time, eat everything, play “the right way,” and socialize like neurotypical peers.

If those standards have left you feeling like you’re failing your autistic child (or yourself), this episode is your permission slip to set them down.

Nicki shares raw reflections from her own journey—comparing her non-verbal son and high-functioning daughter to checklists and waiting-room kids, the guilt that followed, and the quiet relief that came when she finally stopped measuring her family against a mold that was never designed for them.

We flip the script on the most painful expectations:

• “Kids should eat a wide variety of foods” → Progress is one new texture in six months, not perfection
• “Play with toys the right way” → Lining up, spinning, scripting is play—and connection
• “Make friends easily” → Meaningful connection on their terms matters more than playdates
• “Milestones on schedule” → Your child is on their own timeline, not “behind”
• “Good moms are always patient” → Exhaustion doesn’t make you bad—it makes you human

Plus a gentle faith encouragement from 2 Corinthians 10:12: Comparison was never God’s standard for you or your child.

Today’s Grace Affirmation My child does not need to be typical to be thriving. Their way of learning, playing, and communicating is valid. I release comparison and trust our unique path.

Resources & Support Ready to parent with more clarity, confidence, and grace? → One-on-one coaching for autism moms: www.walkwithmemom.com → Join the private community where grace—not perfection—is the standard → Email Nicki directly: info@nickibradley.com (she reads every message)

You are a good mom. You’re doing this with intention and love—even on the heavy days. You don’t have to carry it alone.

Next week: Letting go of self-blame.

Share this episode with another autism mom who needs the reminder. You’ve got this. I’m walking with you.

Please email any questions, comments, to info@nickibradley.com

Don't forget to Like, Share & Subscribe!

Visit: www.walkwithmemom.com

Episode Title: Special Episode: Graceful Parenting - Thriving with Autism | Season Introduction (2026)

Season 2: Walk With Me Mom: From Burnout to Balance – 2026 Theme Launch

Episode Description:

Kick off 2026 with grace. 💙

In this heartfelt season premiere, Nicki shares her raw journey as mom to a non-verbal autistic son and an autistic/ADHD daughter—years of chasing “perfect” parenting, battling self-blame, and carrying bone-deep exhaustion while brushing it aside.

This year’s theme, Graceful Parenting: Thriving with Autism, flips the script:

• Ditch typical milestones and one-size-fits-all standards
• Release self-blame for your child’s unique neurology
• Honor real exhaustion (not just “mom tired”) without shame
• Redefine thriving as presence, flexibility, and kindness—especially toward yourself

Nicki grounds the conversation in faith with powerful reminders from 2 Corinthians 12:9 (“My grace is sufficient for you”) and Isaiah 40:11 (God gently leads those with young), affirming that weakness is an invitation to lean on grace, not a failure.

Whether you’re feeling validated, challenged, or hopeful, this episode sets the tone for honest, shame-free support all season long.

Mentioned in this episode:

• One-on-one coaching for overwhelmed autism + neurodivergent moms → www.walkwithmemom.com
• Private community for ongoing encouragement → www.walkwithmemom.com
• Email for questions: info@nickibradley.com

Grace Affirmation to carry with you: “My child does not need a perfect parent—they need me.”

Next week: Letting Go of Typical Parenting Standards.

You’re not alone. You’re already doing something brave. I’m walking with you. 🤍

#AutismMom #NeurodivergentParenting #GracefulParenting #AutismAcceptance #FaithAndParenting #MomBurnout #SpecialNeedsMom #ThrivingWithAutism

Please email any questions, comments, to info@nickibradley.com

Don't forget to Like, Share & Subscribe!

Visit: www.walkwithmemom.com

Walk With Me Mom: From Burnout to Balance Episode 15: Calm in the Storm – Managing Meltdowns with Your Autistic Child

Nicki Bradley, autism mom walking beside you through the chaos.

Episode Highlights

• Meltdown ≠ Tantrum
• Real-life pivot
• Proactive tools
• During the storm
• After the storm
• Mom’s reset Scripture Anchor

“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10 Heart stillness when physical stillness is impossible.

Quick Action Steps

1. Build a mini calm-down kit (3 items max).
2. Practice one co-regulation move (deep breath, firm hug).
3. Plan your 2-minute post-meltdown reset.

Connect & Get Support

• Share your meltdown win: info@nickibradley.com
• Join the faith-filled community: www.walkwithmemom.com
• Book 1:1 coaching: www.walkwithmom.com/book-session

Next Week – Episode 16: Sensory Soothing Strategies

You’re not failing—you’re guiding. One breath, one breakthrough at a time.

Please email any questions, comments, to info@nickibradley.com

Don't forget to Like, Share & Subscribe!

Visit: www.walkwithmemom.com

Walk With Me Mom: From Burnout to Balance Episode 14: Steady Steps – Building Routines for Your Autistic Child

Nicki Bradley, mom of two autistic kids and your guide from chaos to calm.

Episode Highlights

• Why routines matter
• One child, one routine
• The power of visual
• Start small, stay consistent
• Adjust, don’t perfect

Scripture Encouragement

“For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.” – 1 Corinthians 14:33 Peace over pressure—invite Him into the sock-lineup and checklist chaos.

Action Steps

1. Identify your toughest daily transition.
2. Create a 3-step visual routine (pictures or checklist).
3. Prep one thing tonight (clothes, lunch, bag).

Connect & Get Support

• Share your routine wins: info@nickibradley.com
• Join the community: www.walkwithmemom.com
• Book a Balance Starter Session: www.walkwithmom.com/book-session

Next Week – Episode 15: Managing Meltdowns

You’re enough. One steady step at a time.

Please email any questions, comments, to info@nickibradley.com

Don't forget to Like, Share & Subscribe!

Visit: www.walkwithmemom.com

Hey, amazing moms! In Episode 13 of Walk With Me Mom: From Burnout to Balance, host Nicki gets real about the challenges of navigating food sensitivities with autistic kids. From mealtime meltdowns to texture aversions, Nicki shares her journey with her non-verbal son’s love for crunchy, spicy foods and her daughter’s hard pass on “funny smells.” This episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt encouragement to help you survive the dinner table battles and plant seeds for progress.

Key Takeaways:

• Sensory needs are real.
• Respect comfort foods.
• Exposure without pressure.
• Get creative, but keep it simple.
• Celebrate small wins.
• Let go of guilt.

Nicki reminds us not to grow weary in doing good. Every small effort—every grape, every patient moment—is seen by God. Your consistency is planting seeds for a harvest, even if it’s not visible yet.

Call to Action:

• Reflect tonight: What small win can you celebrate at the dinner table? A new food touched? A calm meal?
• Need support? Nicki offers one-on-one coaching for autism moms navigating food challenges or sensory issues. Email info@nickibradley.com or visit www.walkwithmemom.com to book a session.
• Join the community: Connect with other moms in the Walk With Me Mom Private Community Group at www.walkwithmemom.com.
• Spread the love: Share this episode with another autism mom to support her journey.

Tune in Next Week:

Episode 14 will dive into building routines that work for you and your child. Don’t miss it!

Stay amazing, keep planting those seeds, and know you’re not alone on this journey.

Please email any questions, comments, to info@nickibradley.com

Don't forget to Like, Share & Subscribe!

Visit: www.walkwithmemom.com

Hey, amazing moms! In Episode 12 Nicki dives into the heart of finding joy in the everyday moments of raising autistic kids. This quick 10-minute episode is all about spotting those small, soul-filling moments of connection—whether it’s a high-five on the basketball court, a giggle during a bike ride, or a quiet moment in a blanket fort. Nicki shares personal stories about her son’s love for the outdoors and her daughter’s imaginative world, reminding us that joy often lives in the small stuff, not perfection.

Key Takeaways:

- Joy isn’t always loud or picture-perfect—it’s in the quiet, messy moments of connection.

- Pause and ask yourself nightly: “Where did I feel connection today?” This simple question can help you notice and grow those joyful moments.

- For tough days, know you’re not alone—joy will come, even if it’s quieter than expected.

Faith Encouragement:

Inspired by Zechariah 4:10, Nicki reminds us not to overlook small beginnings. Those little moments of joy are holy ground, and God rejoices with you in them.

Call to Action:

- Tonight, reflect: “Where did I feel connection today?” Write it down or pray over it.

- Feeling overwhelmed? Nicki offers one-on-one coaching for autism moms. Email her at info@nickibradley.com or visit www.walkwithmemom.com to book a session.

- Join the *Walk With Me Mom* Private Community Group at www.walkwithmemom.com to connect with other moms.

- Share this episode with another autism mom to spread the joy!

**Tune in Next Week:**

Episode 13 will explore Navigating Food Sensitivities with Your Autistic Child. Don’t miss it!

Stay amazing, keep leaning into the small moments, and we’ll walk together again soon.

Website: www.walkwithmemom.com

Please email any questions, comments, to info@nickibradley.com

Don't forget to Like, Share & Subscribe!

Visit: www.walkwithmemom.com

In this heartfelt episode, Nicki dives into the art of noticing the silent signals our non-verbal autistic children send every day. Through a personal story about her son’s disrupted evening walk and the meltdown that followed, Nicki shares how she learned to decode his unspoken needs by following his lead. This episode is a reminder to slow down, stay curious, and honor the unique ways our kids communicate—even without words. Nicki also offers a moment of faith-based encouragement, referencing Galatians 6:9, and invites listeners to join her coaching sessions or the Walk With Me Mom Community Group for support.

Key Takeaways:

· Non-verbal autistic children communicate through routines, behaviors, and subtle cues.

· Missing these signals can lead to meltdowns, but reflecting and observing can uncover their meaning.

· Parenting is about learning your child’s unique language, not just teaching them ours.

· You’re not failing—you’re sowing seeds of trust and love, even in the hardest moments.

Resources Mentioned:

· Personalized Coaching: Book a one-on-one session with Nicki to create tailored strategies for your family at www.walkwithmemom.com.

· Walk With Me Mom Community Group: Join a judgment-free space for autism moms to connect, share, and grow together at www.walkwithmemom.com.

Call to Action:

· Share this episode with another autism mom who might need encouragement to spot those silent cues.

· Visit www.walkwithmemom.com to book a coaching session or join the community.

· Tune in next week for an episode on finding joy in everyday moments with your autistic child.

Quote of the Episode:
“Being a mom to a non-verbal autistic child is not about teaching them our language. It’s about learning theirs.”

Please email any questions, comments, to info@nickibradley.com

Don't forget to Like, Share & Subscribe!

Visit: www.walkwithmemom.com