Ep. 145 - Concepts of attachment and self-regulation

In episode 145, Erin and Michelle delve into the concepts of attachment and self-regulation, highlighting their significance in parenting and child development. The hosts discuss how attachment forms a secure base, allowing children to regulate stress and explore their environment. Attachment theory categorizes relationships as either secure, which supports effective self-regulation, or insecure, where stress regulation can be more challenging. Brain research reveals that secure attachments foster more integrated neural activity between the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for emotional regulation. The conversation touches on the potential effects of having mixed attachment styles with different caregivers and how secure attachments can mitigate the impact of insecure ones. As children grow, they develop social referencing skills, using their caregivers to navigate and interpret social and emotional contexts. Co-regulation—where caregivers model emotional regulation and validate children’s emotions—is emphasized as a key supportive strategy. Emotional awareness and using natural, age-appropriate language to describe emotions help children understand and articulate their feelings. Practical techniques like deep breathing are also explored as essential tools to support self-regulation, even if results take time and consistency.

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Parenting Understood is a podcast aimed at helping parents become more confident and relaxed in their parenting. We explore the current research on different parenting and child development topics and break it down into an easy to understand, relatable content. We know there is an abundance of information out there which can make it feel overwhelming. Maybe trying to determine what’s fact vs opinion makes you want to bury your head in the sand. Let us help you find and understand the evidence based resources you need, to feel more confident in the choices you make as parents. Join us each week to get a breakdown of the current research and let us guide you to becoming a more confident and relaxed parent, able to provide the sensitive and responsive care your child needs.