Polyvagal Work with Children and Families

This engaging guide equips therapists with clear, clinically relevant ways to bring the science of connection into their sessions with children and caregivers. It bridges complex neurobiological concepts with real-world strategies for helping kids understand and regulate their nervous systems. Through vivid examples and actionable exercises, readers learn how to explain Polyvagal Theory to children, strengthen co-regulation, and support healing within families. Emphasizing that every nervous system is shaped by relationships, the authors guide therapists in helping parents and caregivers understand their own nervous system patterns so they can provide the co-regulation children need to develop internal wisdom. The book offers specific polyvagal-informed practices—including a nervous system mapping framework, in-session activities, and guidance for therapeutic mixed-state presence—which are designed to help therapists integrate this science into their existing approach while building children’s lifelong capacity for self-understanding and embodied resilience.