5 tips to help your child be more regulated
Children with neurodevelopmental challenges typically have extreme challenges with self-regulation.
While you or I or other children are able to regulate ourselves when excited or over-stimulated, children with neurodevelopmental challenges often have imbalances in their autonomic nervous system which makes it difficult to self-regulate.
Other times they may develop maladaptive coping strategies to soothe themselves such as chewing on their shirt, spinning in circles, flapping their hands or humming.
These are all strategies to stimulate their nervous system and soothe it/balance it.
Below I've put together a list of 5 things you can do to help balance your child's nervous system and over time, help it become more resilient and strong.
5 tips to support your child's nervous system
1) Epsom Salt Baths - Epsom salts are calming to the nervous system.
If baths can’t be taken daily or when a child is in crisis, try foot baths. They can often soak their feet while watching TV, coloring, etc.
2) Essential Oils - Certain essential oils such as lavender have a calming effect on the nervous system.
A diffuser can be set up in the house and oils can be applied to the skin or clothing during the day.
3) Fish Oil - Fish oil supplements are positive for the brain and nervous system health.
Nordic Naturals has gummy options that are more palatable for those with picky tastes.
4) Joint Compression - Compressing the big joints of the body such as the shoulders, elbow, knees and ankles sends positive, calming proprioceptive information to the brain.
5) Therapy Swing - Swinging and spinning can often help a child become more regulated by stimulating the vestibular and proprioceptive systems.
I hope these suggestions help your child as they have so many others!