6-Step Compact Path

When you have some capacity but not enough for all 12 steps

If even this 6-step path feels like too much, use Emergency Mode instead.

The Survival Curriculum

If life explodes and 12 steps feels impossible, here’s the 6-step survival curriculum:

Step	Focus	From
1	Brain states + parent pause	Step 1
2	Connect before correct	Step 2
3	Naming feelings	Step 5
4	Choices + play	Step 8
5	Sturdy leadership	Step 10
6	Repair	Step 12

What You’re Skipping

Special time depth (Step 4)
Full simplicity project (Step 3)
Descriptive noticing refinement (Step 9)
Sibling ladder details (Step 11)
Emotion coaching depth (Step 6)
Description & information skills (Step 7)

These are all valuable, but they’re not essential for survival.

When to Use This

Life is in crisis mode but not full Emergency Mode
You’re returning from Emergency Mode and need a bridge
12 steps feels overwhelming right now
You want the core toolkit without the refinements

When to Return to Full Curriculum

Crisis has passed
You’re hitting ~70% on these 6 steps
You notice gaps (sibling conflicts, missing connection time)
You have capacity for one more thing

Return to the full curriculum when ready. There’s no rush.