34. A Real Mum’s Story: Boundaries That Work, with Tess Bonde
Description
In this special episode, Nina chats with Tess, a mum-of-two and long-time listener, who shares how she used the calm boundary script from Episode 8 in a moment when her daughter was yelling at her.
It’s a real story about emotional boundaries, staying steady under pressure, and what happens when you choose connection over control - even when it’s hard.
You’ll Learn:
- How to use calm boundaries when kids are rude, yelling or dishonest
- The “I won’t let you X, but you can Y” structure in action
- Why pausing (see Episode 3) can shift the whole energy in your home
- How calm boundaries can open space for repair, respect, and deeper understanding
Why This Episode Matters
Tess’s story reminds us that calm boundaries do work - even when kids push hard. This isn’t a polished expert take - it’s one mum showing up with love, courage, and the skills she’s learned along the way.
It’s a raw and real example of parenting under pressure - and a beautiful reminder that connection often comes after a boundary is held kindly but firmly.
One Small Shift
Next time your child is rude, yelling, or being dishonest, try:
“I won’t let you speak to me that way. I’m happy to talk when we’re both calm.”
Then pause. Breathe. Hold the boundary with calm confidence — and trust that connection often follows.
And just as important: be kind to yourself.
As Tess shared, speak to yourself the way you’d speak to a friend or acquaintance. Progress doesn’t come from perfection — it comes from compassion and practice.
Take the Next Step
If emotional blow‑ups, backchat, or lying are becoming frequent in your home - and you want support turning them into moments of calmness and repair - book a free 20‑minute clarity call. I’ll help you identify what’s really going on and give you 1–2 simple, effective tools to try straight away.
Links and Resources
- Recommended episodes of Your Calm Parenting Path
- Book a free 20-minute Clarity Call here.
Let’s Connect
- Follow Nina on Instagram
- Website: mindfulparentinglifestyle.com.au
- Email: nina@mindfulparentinglifestyle.com.au
About the Hosts
Nina Visic is a mindful parenting coach, podcast host, and mum of three based in WA. She supports parents to move from yelling and reactivity to calm, confident connection. Her work blends practical tools with deep compassion — because parenting isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence.
In this episode, Nina chats with Tess - a long-time listener and past client - who brings the boundary tools to life in the middle of a real parenting moment. It’s raw, real, and a powerful reminder that calm parenting is possible, even when emotions are big.



