Is behavior change really the first priority when dealing with challenging kids? It turns out, focusing on the nervous system might be key to long-term solutions. Discover why even baffling behaviors make sense when you dig deeper. The discussion highlights the significance of creating a safe and regulated environment for children. Plus, learn about vital resources and community support that can aid parents and professionals navigating this journey together. It's all about connection and understanding!
33:29
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
insights INSIGHT
Behavior Change Isn't Always First
Behavior change is a legitimate goal but not always the starting point for long-term improvement.
Addressing the nervous system's regulation and safety is essential for meaningful behavior change.
insights INSIGHT
Behavior as Smoke, Nervous System Fire
Behaviors signaling distress are like smoke indicating fire in the nervous system.
Treating the behavior alone ignores the underlying causes and leads to repeated issues.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Prioritize Nervous System First
Focus first on regulation, connection, and felt safety in the nervous system.
Behavior change will follow as a byproduct of healing and nervous system integration.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
When you're dealing with whining, hitting, defiance, back talk…well, of course you want it to stop. But what if behavior change isn’t actually the place to start? Not for long-term behavior change, at least.
In this episode, I explore why behavior change does matter, but why it’s not the first goal, especially for kids with vulnerable nervous systems.
HEADS UP! I’m not necessarily asking YOU- the one facing these out of control behaviors- to change your goal of behavior change. But…what if the people who are helping you could stay focused on that truth?!
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why all behavior makes sense—even the baffling kind
What happens when we shift from changing behavior to addressing the nervous system
How holding two truths at once helps you feel more regulated, even in hard moments