: In high-stress moments, appeal to the child's "upstairs brain" by asking for their help or input, rather than triggering their "downstairs brain" with commands or threats.
: Build the "memory muscle" by asking children about their day and helping them integrate past experiences with their current reality. The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strateg...
: Help children pay attention to what is happening inside them—their physical sensations, mental images, feelings, and thoughts—to develop "mindsight." : In high-stress moments, appeal to the child's
: Physical movement can help shift a child’s emotional state. If they are stuck in a "downstairs" tantrum, jumping or running can help "reset" the brain. If they are stuck in a "downstairs" tantrum,
By applying these strategies, parents move away from reactive "survival" parenting toward parenting. This approach fosters a child who is more resilient, emotionally balanced, and capable of handling life’s challenges with a integrated, healthy mind.