What is Polyvagal Theory? An Introduction for Parents and Teachers

As parents, teachers, or therapists, we want to help kids feel safe, calm and ready to learn and play. But sometimes, kids can seem to have big reactions, unexpected meltdowns, or seem checked out. Kids don't always have the words to let us know what is going on or even to understand what they are experiencing. So their bodies do the talking for them through behaviors, emotions, and even reactions to daily routines. It can leave us feeling confused and wondering, Why is this happening, and what can we do to help?

This is where Polyvagal Theory comes in, it's a science backed way to understand what is going on in a child's nervous system. It also helps us comprehend why feeling safe is the foundation for learning, socializing, and participating in daily activities. It was developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, a neuroscientist and psychologist. Polyvagal Theory explains how our body and brain work together to respond to stressors that are a part of everyday life. It offers a lens through with which we can better support a child's (and our own) emotional regulation, engagement and connection.

3 States of Autonomic Nervous System

Polyvagal Theory explains how our autonomic nervous system has 3 distinct states that influence how we respond to stress.

1. Social Engagement System (Ventral Vagal Pathway)

   1. associated with feelings of safety, calm, connection, and readiness to learn, play and engage.

   2. A child can make listen, follow directions, have fun with others,

   3. Nervous system is tipped toward safety and connection

      
      

2. Fight or Flight Mobilization (Sympathetic Nervous System)

   1. activated when there is perception of danger, child feels anxious, overwhelmed or unsafe

   2. You might see fidgeting, running away, yelling, arguing, or easily distracted.

   3. Nervous system is tipped toward protection

      
      

3. Freeze or Shutdown (Dorsal Vagal Pathway)

   1. This is shutdown mode, kids may get quiet, go limp, avoid eye contact, or seem like they've checked out.

   2. "This is too much. I need to disappear or shut down"

   3. Nervous system is tipped toward survival and protection.

Why this Matters for Kids?

Polyvagal Theory helps us remember:

Regulation comes before learning.

Connection comes before correction. 

When a child's nervous system is shifted toward protection in either fight/flight or freeze/shutdown, engagement in childhood occupations ranging from play to learning is limited. This state of heighted arousal or immobilization can hinder a child's capacity to explore their environment, interact with peers, or even focus in the classroom. By supporting the child's body and nervous system through connection and co-regulation everything else, attention, behavior, participation, gets easier.  But when the nervous system is stuck in protection or survival mode, it becomes difficult or impossible to engage.

Next Steps

Talk to your pediatric occupational therapist about Polyvagal Theory informed therapy.

Learn more about Polyvagal Theory at https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/ and https://www.rhythmofregulation.com/polyvagal-theory

Wanting to understand your own nervous system in order to be a sturdy parent or teacher, read the book Anchored by Deb Dana.