Therapist Lisa Dion discusses nervous system regulation in neurodivergent children

A groundbreaking discussion on supporting parents of neurodivergent children took place during a recent Indian Prairie CUSD 204 meeting, focusing on the critical role of nervous system regulation. The session highlighted insights from Synergetic Play Therapy, emphasizing how understanding the nervous system can transform parenting approaches.

The speaker, a certified expert in Synergetic Play Therapy, introduced the concept of polyvagal theory, explaining how children's responses to perceived threats often manifest as what appears to be defiance. "90% of the time, it's not defiance," the speaker noted, stressing that these behaviors are rooted in the child's nervous system responses. Parents often misinterpret these reactions, leading to frustration and ineffective discipline strategies.

A key takeaway was the importance of adults managing their own nervous systems to serve as external regulators for their children. The speaker pointed out that children, particularly those who are neurodivergent, look to adults for cues on emotional regulation, as their prefrontal cortex—responsible for such regulation—is still developing. "Calm is not the point," the speaker emphasized, urging parents to move beyond simply telling children to "calm down" without providing the tools to achieve that state.

The discussion also introduced the concept of "neuroception of safety," which is crucial for effective emotional regulation. The speaker explained that when children are in a state of survival mode, they are not in a position to learn or make healthy choices. Teaching moments are ineffective during these dysregulated states, highlighting the need for parents to create a safe and supportive environment.

This meeting underscored the significance of understanding the interplay between emotional regulation and parenting strategies, offering valuable insights for families navigating the challenges of raising neurodivergent children. As the community continues to engage in these discussions, the hope is to foster a more supportive environment for both parents and children alike.