Understanding Nervous System Dysregulation in Children

Navigating the complexities of childhood behavior requires patience, understanding, and a proactive approach. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, an integrative mental health expert, recently shared invaluable insights on how parents can better support their children when they struggle with sensory dysregulation.

Imagine a bustling household with children of all ages—each with unique personalities and challenges. Some may struggle with focus, others with emotional outbursts or sensory defensiveness. These behaviors may not always signal clinical issues but are often manifestations of a dysregulated nervous system.

Reframing Children’s Behavior

Dr. Roseann emphasizes the importance of reframing how we view these behaviors. Rather than hastily labeling and diagnosing, it’s crucial to address these symptoms head-on. Signs of under and overstimulation—such as unfocused behavior, memory issues, and emotional irritability—are clues that our children’s nervous systems need better regulation.

One of the most poignant points made was the significance of parental self-regulation. Just as we set examples in other aspects of life, our emotional well-being directly impacts our children. Handling our critical language and personal triggers can create a more stabilizing environment. Children are like sponges, absorbing and mirroring our stress levels and coping mechanisms.

Create a calmer mealtime environment and involve your child in cooking and food choices. Such activities not only make meal times enjoyable but also improve their relationship with food, addressing sensory issues and picky eating habits. Small changes, like introducing a variety of nutritious foods and allowing the child to take responsibility and pride in their meals, can yield significant results.

Take an Aerial View to Assess Behavioral Challenges

Every child is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Roseann speaks to this with her 360° aerial view approach to behavioral issues. By observing, understanding antecedents, and considering sensory needs, parents can make more informed decisions about interventions. Whether it’s alternative therapies, dietary changes, or stress management techniques like breathwork, a multi-faceted approach can lead to meaningful improvements.

For parents wary about psychiatric medication, especially those raising children with autism, it’s empowering to know there are alternative interventions. Early, holistic interventions focusing on individual needs can positively influence learning, attention, and overall well-being.

Remember, the journey of addressing dysregulation and behavioral issues is complex, requiring consistent observation and understanding. Reinforcement and expert support are essential, especially for neurodivergent children. Brain scans and an understanding of stimulation levels can offer further insights into the nervous system’s role in managing stress.

To all parents navigating these challenging waters, you are not alone. Dr. Roseann provides a wealth of practical solutions and resources on her website and podcast, aimed at supporting both you and your child.

By fostering a nurturing environment, practicing self-regulation, and adopting a comprehensive approach, we can help our children thrive. Let’s commit to one impactful action today that could make a significant difference in their lives.

By implementing these insights and adapting to the unique needs of our children, we can create a foundational environment that goes beyond addressing immediate issues—setting the stage for lifelong resilience and well-being.

OT is IN #31: Cultivating Calm: Understanding Nervous System Dysregulation in Children and Practical Solutions for Parents

In this episode, Dr. Roseann and I explore the importance of moving beyond clinical labels to understand under and overstimulation signs such as unfocused behavior, memory issues, and emotional irritability. Dr. Roseann emphasizes the critical role of parental self-regulation in supporting children, discusses her disapproval of psychiatric medication as a frontline treatment, and advocates for alternative, empowering interventions.

Join us as we discuss the significance of a holistic, 360-degree approach to identifying and addressing behavioral issues, the power of breathwork, practical solutions for sensory and nutritional challenges, and the essential need for individualized therapy. We also highlight the importance of consistent parental reinforcement and the complexity of catering to neurodivergent children’s unique needs. Don’t miss this discussion packed with valuable insights and actionable strategies for parents and caregivers.

In this episode you’ll hear about:

Nervous System Dysregulation in Children
Impact on Behavior including: Unfocused behavior, Memory issues, Emotional irritability, Sensory defensiveness
Approaching Behaviors without Clinical Labels
Addressing dysregulated behaviors instead of focusing on labels
Highlighting bio-individual nature of children’s behavior
Parental Self-Regulation
Importance of parental consistency and reinforcement
Managing critical language and personal triggers
Transitioning from a sympathetic to a parasympathetic state through breathwork
Environmental changes to create a calmer mealtime atmosphere
Alternative Interventions over Medication
Addressing parents’ resistance to psychiatric medication
Seeking alternative interventions for dysregulation in children with autism
Early intervention with multiple approaches
Empowering parents with individualized therapy
Observing and Understanding Children’s Behavior
Importance of consistent observation
Identifying and understanding antecedents before addressing behaviors
Observing the underlying reasons for children’s behavior
Nutritional and Sensory Factors
Sensory issues and nutrient deficiencies
Impact of picky eating on the nervous system
Introducing a variety of nutritious foods
Cooking with kids to improve their relationship with food
Seeking Expert Help
Conducting brain scans to understand nervous system activity
Accessing practical solutions and resources on Dr. Roseann’s website and podcast
Importance of seeking personalized expert support for neurodivergent children

Links and Resources From Today’s Show

Connect with our Guest, Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge

Dr. Roseann stands as a mental health pioneer, media persona, and the architect of The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health, Neurotastic™ Brain Formulas and Dr. Roseann, LLC. She’s committed to altering mental health perceptions and interventions, offering a message of hope through science-endorsed methods that promote a calm brain. Her BrainBehaviorReset® Program and It’s Gonna be OK!™ Podcast has been a cornerstone for thousands facing daunting challenges such as PANS/PANDAS, OCD, anxiety, and ADHD/executive functioning, significantly bettering the lives of children and families.