Building Strong Foundations: 10 Reasons Why Nervous System Regulation Matters for Young Children and the Transformative Power of Co-Regulation
By: Tesa Emmart, LCPC, LMHC, SEP, Founder of Embody + Mind Collective
Nervous system regulation is crucial for young children as it significantly influences their emotional, cognitive, and social development. Co-regulation, or the process by which a child's nervous system is supported and influenced by interactions with a caregiver or another significant adult, plays a vital role in helping children learn and develop effective self-regulation skills. Here are 10 reasons why nervous system regulation is important in young children and how they learn it through co-regulation:
Emotional Regulation:
Nervous system regulation helps children manage and express their emotions appropriately, fostering emotional intelligence and resilience.
Stress Response:
Learning to regulate the nervous system aids in the development of adaptive stress responses, reducing the likelihood of chronic stress and associated health issues.
Cognitive Function:
A well-regulated nervous system contributes to improved cognitive function, attention, and learning abilities in children.
Social Skills:
Regulation is essential for healthy social interactions, as children with well-regulated nervous systems are better equipped to engage in positive relationships with peers and adults.
Behavioral Self-Control:
Children who learn effective nervous system regulation through co-regulation are more likely to exhibit better behavioral self-control and impulse management.
Sleep Patterns:
Nervous system regulation supports the development of healthy sleep patterns, promoting adequate rest and contributing to overall well-being.
Body Awareness:
Through co-regulation, children develop a heightened awareness of their own bodies, fostering a sense of self and understanding of physical sensations.
Resilience in Adversity:
Children who experience co-regulation are better equipped to navigate challenges, developing a sense of resilience and coping skills in the face of adversity.
Attachment and Bonding:
Co-regulation strengthens the attachment bond between caregivers and children, providing a secure base from which children can explore and learn about the world.
Development of Self-Regulation Skills:
Co-regulation serves as a scaffolding for the development of self-regulation skills. Over time, children internalize the regulatory strategies modeled by caregivers, enabling them to self-soothe and manage stress independently.
In summary, nervous system regulation is foundational for various aspects of a child's development, and co-regulation is a powerful mechanism through which they learn and internalize these essential skills. Caregivers, through their attuned and supportive interactions, play a critical role in helping children build a strong foundation for lifelong well-being. If you find these insights resonating with your concerns for your child's development, consider taking the next step. Reach out to schedule a session with Liz, our experienced clinician specializing in nervous system regulation for young children. Your child's well-being is our priority, and we're here to support their journey. Contact us today to book a session with Liz and embark on the path to nurturing your child's emotional resilience and growth.
