Nervous system Regulation: Building Capacity
Nervous system regulation isn't about being calm all the time. We are all going to become stressed, overwhelmed, frustrated, anxious or dysregulated at times. That's part of being human.
The aim is to build capacity in the nervous system so that we can notice when we're becoming dysregulated, recognise what is happening in our body, and gradually find our way back to regulation.
For children, this capacity develops over time and often begins through co-regulation with a safe adult. Before children can consistently regulate themselves, they need experiences of being supported by someone who can stay present with them while they move through big feelings.
As parents, we can help by becoming more aware of our own nervous system too. When we notice our own activation and learn ways to regulate ourselves, we're better able to support our children when they're struggling.
The goal isn't "never get dysregulated."
It's developing the capacity to move through dysregulation and come back to connection, safety and ourselves.
In this video, we'll explore some simple ways to understand and support nervous system regulation for both you and your child.
