WELLBEING AND INCLUSION

How can I reframe my language when my child is dysregulated?

When children are emotionally dysregulated, a simple request or demand can trigger an escalation of challenging behaviours. This is because the amygdala, also known as the threat detection part of a child’s brain, is on high alert, and a simple request or demand can trigger a fight-flight-freeze response, where you may see behaviour increases in severity. 

If a child is anxious or dysregulated, they can find a perceived lack of control to be distressing, which is often why we see emotional escalations around times when children are told to do something, such as bedtimes or transitioning to the car during school drop off. Reframing the language we use when communicating with dysregulated children is a simple way to manage and help their emotional state and prevent escalations in behaviour. 

Try some of the examples below:

Source: Think Psychologists https://www.thinkpsychologists.com.au/ 

Virginnia Gilham – Inclusive Practices Leader