The Barrier-Breaking Evolution of Whole Body Regulation

Feb 26, 2025

In this engaging conversation, Elizabeth Sautter, a speech-language pathologist and author, discusses the evolution from whole body listening to whole body regulation. She highlights the essential role of emotional co-regulation in supporting neurodivergent individuals. The conversation explores the negative impact of shame on learning, and the significance of modeling emotional awareness by adults. Elizabeth also emphasizes the importance of understanding individual needs and the shift from a shame-based approach to one rooted in compassion and vulnerability.

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ANECDOTE

Evolution of Whole Body Listening

Elizabeth Sautter shared how she created Whole Body Listening Larry to teach kids about listening.
After feedback about ableism, she evolved this into Whole Body Regulation, focusing more on individual needs than compliance.

INSIGHT

Listening Varies by Individual

Effective listening looks different for every neurodivergent individual.
Enforcing stillness and eye contact can increase cognitive load and dysregulation instead of aiding focus.

ADVICE

Build a Personal Regulation Toolbox

Build a personalized toolbox of regulation strategies based on individual body awareness.
Understand the visible behaviors and internal feelings to support effective emotional regulation.

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Today we're discussing the concept of whole body listening, and its evolution to whole body regulation. Elizabeth Sautter joins Emily Kircher-Morris to talk about that evolution, and what it means to neurodivergent people and those who support them. They discuss emotional regulation and co-regulation, the role of educators and parents in modeling emotional awareness, and the impact of shame on neurodivergent learners. Also, the complexities of vulnerability, and the significant difference between calling someone out, and calling them in.

TAKEAWAYS

The shift from whole body listening to whole body regulation is crucial.
Co-regulation is foundational for emotional regulation.
Adults must model emotional awareness for children.
Understanding individual needs is key to effective learning.
Shame can hinder the learning process for neurodivergent kids.
Brene Brown's work highlights the importance of discussing vulnerability and shame.
Calling in promotes understanding and change more effectively than calling out.
The stages of grief can be applied to the process of unlearning harmful practices.
Self-reflection is essential for educators and parents to shift their approaches.

Be notified when the Therapist Hub opens for new members. It's a great opportunity to transform your practice into a more neurodiversity-affirming place, using tools and methods that benefit all clients. It's also a great resource for accredited CE!

Listen to Emily's other podcast, Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, co-hosted by Amanda Morin.

Elizabeth A. Sautter, MA, CCC, is a speech-language pathologist, speaker, author, and trainer, with expertise in social communication, emotional regulation, and executive functioning. She is the author of Make Social and Emotional Learning Stick! Practical activities to help your child manage emotions, navigate social situations & reduce anxiety, along with many other resources, including an online course and community for parents. Elizabeth collaborates with the Zones of Regulation team as a trainer and is a coauthor of the Zones children’s books, card decks, and games.

BACKGROUND READING

Elizabeth Sautter’s website

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