Theraverse . November 1, 2022

When a child is distressed and dysregulated what they need is a safe and emotionally available adult to help co-regulate their nervous system this not only calm and regulate emotions but it plays an important role in their mental health .

And also one needs to know that experiencing co-regulation is a prerequisite for developing effective self-regulation. We are all not born with nervous systems and brains that know how to calm down when upset or how to manage distress. Nor do we magically learn these skills by being left alone to figure it out when we are upset or distressed – we might develop some coping skills but they are usually not that great for our wellbeing in the long-term.

What we need in order to learn self-regulation is to see and feel someone else being regulated when we aren’t. Again and again and again . As a parent /caregiver we have to first practice and master the art of regulation because children pay close attention to every single thing we do and they imitate and practice accordingly . Today ask yourself if you’re setting a right example in all areas of your life and be a good role model because this plays a huge role when it comes to nurturing to your child’s mental well-being .

This is a wonderful visual explanation of co-regulation. When their storm meets our calm – co-regulation occurs ❤️