In this episode, I first lay the foundation for why we need investment parenting. It all has to do with co-regulation.

Children with trauma histories/ Capital Letter Syndromes have altered brain development. The main outward sign of past trauma is what we often refer to as “bad behavior” or the inability to self-regulate (if you want it to sound more science-y and less critical). The truth is, when it comes to behavior, we must remember that every behavior expresses a need.

When it comes to kiddos with a trauma history/Capital Letter Syndrome, the ability to self-regulate is absent. It’s CAN’T not WON’T Regulate. In simple plain language that means, he cannot calm himself. He can’t help but be overwhelmed to the point that he is either hiding under the table (flight), not responding to what you are asking of him (freeze), or running away from the situation (flight). He CAN’T. Not physically able. Not emotionally able. In this scenario, the adult must take the reins and help the child by co-regulating. Co-regulation helps a child develop a new pattern for stress regulation.

Grab a cup of coffee and join me to learn how to practice investment parenting with co-regulation!