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Sensory Processing

Understanding the Vagus Nerve and Its Role in Your Child’s Regulation

Author: Tayla Gabin, Paediatric Occupational Therapist
4 min read

As parents, we often see our children experience a range of emotions, from joy to frustration, calm to chaos. Understanding what helps children regulate their emotions and behaviour is key to supporting their development. One vital component in this process is something many of us may never have heard of: the vagus nerve.

In this blog, we’ll explore the vagus nerve, its importance to emotional and physiological regulation, and how parents can help their children activate it to foster calm and focus.

Young girl being swung by parents when walking

What Is the Vagus Nerve?

The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body, connecting the brain to various organs, including the heart, lungs, and digestive system. The word “vagus” means “wanderer” in Latin, which is fitting, as this nerve “wanders” through many important areas of the body. It plays a crucial role in the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the “rest and digest” system.

The vagus nerve helps regulate heart rate, digestion, and the body’s relaxation response. When it functions well, it promotes a state of calm and helps us recover from stress more quickly. For children, having a well-regulated vagus nerve is essential for maintaining emotional balance, focus, and overall well-being.

The Vagus Nerve and Emotional Regulation

When a child faces stress, such as frustration over a difficult task or a disagreement with a sibling, their body enters a “fight, flight, or freeze” state, part of the sympathetic nervous system. This state is useful in emergencies but can make it hard for children to think clearly, focus, or remain calm during everyday challenges.

The vagus nerve acts like a brake on this stress response. When activated, it helps to slow the heart rate and calm the body down. This is where emotional regulation comes into play. A well-functioning vagus nerve enables a child to move out of stress mode and into a calmer, more regulated state, where they can manage their emotions and behaviours better.

How Can You Help Your Child Activate Their Vagus Nerve?

Thankfully, there are simple, everyday techniques that can support your child’s vagus nerve function and improve their ability to regulate their emotions. Here are a few practical strategies you can try at home:

1. Deep Breathing

Slow, deep breathing is one of the most effective ways to activate the vagus nerve. Encouraging your child to take slow breaths, filling their belly as they inhale and slowly exhaling, can quickly shift them into a calmer state. Practising this together when they are calm can make it easier for them to use when they are feeling overwhelmed.

2. Humming or Singing

The vagus nerve runs through the vocal cords, so activities like humming, singing, or even chanting can help stimulate it. This can be particularly useful for children who enjoy music or who may be feeling anxious and need a simple distraction to help them calm down.

3. Cold Water Splash

Splashing cold water on the face can also stimulate the vagus nerve. This is because the nerve is connected to the part of the body that senses temperature changes. While this method might not work for every child, those who enjoy sensory input might find it soothing during times of high stress.

4. Movement and Exercise

Gentle physical activity such as walking, jumping on a trampoline, or even dancing can help activate the vagus nerve. Regular physical movement helps children regulate their nervous system and process emotions in a healthy way.

5. Gentle Pressure or Massage

For some children, deep pressure through a firm hug or a gentle massage can help activate the vagus nerve. Weighted blankets or soft, soothing touch can also provide comfort and help your child return to a state of calm.

children running through water fountain

Why Is This Important for Parents to Know?

Understanding the vagus nerve gives parents an important tool to support their child’s emotional and physical regulation. It allows you to see that, when your child is upset or stressed, they might not be able to simply “snap out of it.” Their nervous system is playing a significant role in their reactions, and by helping them activate their vagus nerve, you are giving them the tools to manage stress and find balance.

The vagus nerve plays an essential role in your child’s ability to regulate their emotions and stay calm in stressful situations. By using simple techniques like deep breathing, singing, and physical activity, you can help your child activate their vagus nerve, bringing them back to a calmer, more focused state.

The more we understand how our children’s bodies and brains work, the better equipped we are to support them. With these strategies, you can help your child navigate their emotional world with greater ease and confidence.

If you feel like your child is struggling with emotional regulation, talk to an occupational therapist for further guidance. Contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding sensory processing and regulation.

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Self-Regulation: Expectations vs Reality for Kids

Author: Elise Foxall, Paediatric Occupational Therapist
6 min read

Self-regulation has become a buzzword in child development, but when is it realistic to expect a child to regulate their emotions independently? Many assume that by the time a child reaches school age, they should be able to manage their emotions and behaviours with little to no help. However, is this really the case?

Sensory play at MoveAbout Therapy Services.

What Does Self-Regulation Mean for Kids?

Before diving into when children can self-regulate, it’s important to understand what self-regulation actually is. Self-regulation is the ability to manage your energy, emotions, behaviors, and attention in socially acceptable ways. This skill is essential for achieving positive outcomes like building good relationships, learning effectively, and maintaining overall well-being.

While the roots of self-regulation begin in infancy, this skill continues to develop well into late adolescence. Just as a newborn isn’t expected to walk immediately, children need time and growth to independently regulate their emotions.

The Development of Self-Regulation

It’s commonly believed that children start acquiring critical self-regulation skills around the age of two. However, this doesn’t mean they’ve mastered the art of managing their emotions at such a young age. The brain’s frontal lobe, which is responsible for thinking, logic, and reasoning, continues to develop until our mid-twenties. This prolonged development period means that true emotional self-regulation isn’t fully attainable until late adolescence.

Play therapy at MoveAbout Therapy Services.

Supporting Self-Regulation in Children

Given that children won’t fully develop self-regulation skills until much later, how can parents and caregivers support them in the meantime?

One crucial approach is for caregivers to model their own self-regulation. Children learn a lot from observing how adults respond to various situations. When caregivers manage their emotions calmly, children pick up on these behaviors and start to mimic them.

Another key element is the practice of co-regulation. This involves warm, responsive interactions between a child and their caregiver, coupled with the support, structure, and guidance that helps children develop self-regulation. Co-regulation allows children to practice basic self-regulation skills, like focusing attention, adjusting behaviour, and using words to express needs. However, they still rely heavily on external support to manage their impulses and calm down when upset.


Self-regulation is a complex skill that takes years to develop. Expecting young children to handle their emotions independently is unrealistic, as their brains are still growing and maturing. It’s vital for caregivers to understand this developmental process and be ready to guide and support children as they learn to navigate their emotions.

For more information on co-regulation and how to practice it effectively, check out Kim’s blog here.

If you feel like your child is struggling with regulation contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding sensory processing and regulation.

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Supporting Your Child’s Unique Path to Toilet Training

Author: Jake Robinson, Paediatric Occupational Therapist
4 min read

Toilet training is a significant developmental milestone, and respecting your child’s unique readiness, sensory preferences, and developmental journey is key. By embracing their individual pace and providing a supportive environment, you can help make this transition smoother. In this guide, we’ll explore selecting the right equipment, understanding body positioning, using visual aids, and establishing routines that align with your child’s developmental needs.

Girl with soap on hands

1. Choose Equipment That Supports Your Child’s Independence

Creating a child-friendly toileting environment encourages autonomy and reduces anxiety. Here are some practical tips:

  • Smaller toilet seats: When transitioning to an adult toilet, using a smaller seat insert can offer your child stability and comfort, ensuring they feel secure.
  • Step stools: A step stool helps your child climb up independently and provides foot support while seated, contributing to a sense of control and comfort.

2. Respect the Role of Body Positioning

Body positioning plays a critical role in ensuring comfort during toilet training. Maintaining the correct posture helps ease the process:

  • 90-degree angles: Aim for your child’s knees and ankles to form 90-degree angles when seated. This promotes relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles, which can make passing urine or stool easier.
  • Foot support: Using a step stool to support your child’s feet enhances their stability and confidence, reducing the fear of unsteady or dangling feet.

3. Use Visual Aids to Empower Your Child

Children thrive with clear and structured guidance. Visual aids can break down the toileting process in a simple, accessible way:

  • Visual schedules: Create a visual step-by-step guide that includes tasks such as pulling down pants, sitting on the toilet, wiping, flushing, and washing hands. These guides reduce uncertainty and offer reassurance, empowering children to follow a predictable routine.

4. Develop a Consistent Routine

A consistent routine helps your child feel secure and reinforces their ability to recognise their body’s cues. Integrating toileting into daily activities promotes predictability:

  • Morning routine: Encourage your child to use the toilet first thing in the morning.
  • After meals: Children often need the toilet after eating, so offer gentle reminders during this time.
  • Before bed: Establish a bedtime toileting routine to reduce nighttime accidents and provide comfort before sleep.

5. Recognise Your Child’s Cues

Toilet training is more successful when you pay attention to your child’s cues. Common signs of readiness include:

  • Seeking privacy: Some children retreat to a quiet space when they feel the need to use the toilet.
  • Facial expressions: Concentration or discomfort on their face can indicate a need to go.
  • Fidgeting: Shifting from foot to foot may be a sign that your child needs the toilet.
  • Grabbing at pants: Some children pull at their diaper or pants when they feel the urge.

By recognising these cues, you can support your child’s journey with patience and understanding.

6. Occupational Therapy and Toilet Training

For children who need extra support, Occupational Therapists (OTs) can be valuable partners in toilet training. OTs take a holistic approach to help children develop the skills needed for toileting success:

  • Creating tailored plans: Based on your child’s individual needs, OTs develop personalised, step-by-step plans that align with their developmental stage.
  • Assessing readiness: OTs evaluate your child’s motor skills, sensory preferences, and cognitive development to determine readiness.
  • Supporting motor skills: If your child struggles with tasks like pulling down pants or sitting independently, OTs can provide targeted strategies to build these skills.
  • Managing sensory differences: For children with sensory sensitivities, tasks like using toilet paper or hearing the flush can be overwhelming. OTs help children manage these differences and create a more comfortable experience.

Toilet training is a developmental process that benefits from patience, consistency, and a child-centred approach. By selecting the right equipment, focusing on body positioning, using visual aids, and establishing a routine that fits your child’s unique needs, you can help them navigate this transition with confidence. For children facing challenges, Occupational Therapy offers personalised support to ensure a positive and respectful toilet training experience.

With time, understanding, and the right tools, your child will gain independence in toileting when they are ready, at their own pace.

If you feel like your child is struggling with toilet training, talk to an occupational therapist for further guidance. Contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding toilet training, sensory processing, and regulation.

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Proprioception: 10 fun and easy ways to get it into your day!

Author: Emily-Kate Pfeiffer, Paediatric Occupational Therapist
4 min read

Proprioception is a crucial sensory system that enables us to sense the position and movement of our joints, along with the perception of force. This ability helps us navigate our surroundings safely, improving our sense of body awareness and promoting regulation. As a paediatric occupational therapist using a neurodevelopmental and neuroaffirming approach, I believe it’s important to find fun and easy ways to boost proprioception throughout the day. Below are ten simple activities that you can seamlessly incorporate into your child’s routine to increase proprioceptive input.

Child jumping on a trampoline.

1. Animal Walks

Animal walks are a fun way to combine imaginative play with proprioceptive input. Encourage your child to move between rooms using an animal walk. They could crab walk to the kitchen for breakfast or slither like a snake to the bathroom to brush their teeth. These walks help build body awareness and strengthen muscles.

2. Wheelbarrow Walks

This is another playful activity that can be done during daily transitions. Have your child hold their body up with their arms while you or a sibling hold their legs—much like a wheelbarrow. Not only does it build upper body strength, but it also increases proprioceptive input. For extra fun, try wheelbarrow races!

3. Kicking a Soccer Ball

Kicking a soccer ball is a great way for kids to develop motor control and get proprioceptive feedback. Whether they’re aiming for a goal, hitting a target, or kicking against a wall, this activity enhances coordination and can be done indoors or outdoors.

4. Bowling

Set up a simple bowling game using plastic bottles partially filled with water to give them weight. Your child can then use a ball to knock them over. For more challenge and proprioceptive input, use a heavier ball. This activity improves hand-eye coordination while offering great push-pull sensory input.

5. Jumping

Jumping is a fantastic way to incorporate proprioception. Whether it’s on a trampoline, off a chair onto soft pillows, or over obstacles, jumping helps regulate sensory systems. Plus, it’s an easy activity to fit into any part of the day.

Child bear walking up incline

6. Toy Rescues

Turn your hallway or living room into an obstacle course using pillows, blankets, and doonas. Hide toys or puzzle pieces at the far end, and have your child crawl, climb, or tiptoe across to rescue them. Older children might enjoy transforming this into a “floor is lava” game, adding a layer of imagination to the physical challenge.

7. Bear Hugs

Bear hugs offer a quick burst of deep pressure, which can be soothing and regulating. When your child runs up to greet you, scoop them into a tight, squishy bear hug for 10 seconds. This simple moment of connection provides excellent proprioceptive input.

8. Blanket Burrito

Wrap your child snugly in a blanket or doona, leaving their head outside like the filling in a burrito. This compression provides calming deep pressure, which can help regulate the nervous system. Let your child choose to be rolled up during quiet time or as a fun wind-down activity.

9. Tug of War

Grab a rope, towel, or blanket and engage in a friendly game of tug of war. This push-pull activity offers great proprioceptive input, especially when your child uses their entire body to pull against you. For an extra challenge, kneel on the floor while playing to make them work harder to win.

10. Playdough

Playing with playdough is not only a tactile treat but also a wonderful way to engage proprioceptive feedback. Rolling, stretching, and poking the dough helps develop finger strength while providing push-pull input at the joints, making it a sensory-rich activity.

Incorporating these activities into your child’s day can help them better understand their body and how it moves. Whether you’re looking for a quick game or a transition activity, these ideas can easily fit into your family’s routine. Each one offers proprioceptive input, helping children feel more grounded and regulated in their environment.

If you feel like your child is struggling with sensory processing talk to an occupational therapist for further guidance. Contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding sensory processing and regulation.

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Sensory: Tags, Socks, and Rough Objects. Why does my child hate them so much?

Author: Jake Robinson, Paediatric Occupational Therapist
3 min read

Have you ever brought a new piece of clothing to wear, only to find a strange, uncomfortable feeling rubbing on your back? Or put on a pair of socks only to immediately remove them in an attempt to smooth out the ripple or crease rubbing on your foot. This is your body having a sensory response to an unfamiliar or uncomfortable stimuli.

Child sitting on floor putting socks on

Often when we hear kids say “this feels funny” or “I don’t like this”, it is their body experiencing an unfamiliar sensory response. Children are often not able to explain or tell us what is happening. It is also a common reason why some children prefer to wear the same clothes or play with things made of a specific texture as it feels safe and comfortable for their body. 

Sensory Systems

The human body has millions upon millions of sensory receptors all over. These receptors feed information from the environment, your body, and your movements into your sensory systems and brain. Our bodies have eight sensory systems; gustatory (taste), olfactory (smell), visual (seeing), auditory (hearing), tactile (touch), vestibular (sense of gravity and movement), proprioceptive (body awareness), and interoception (internal awareness). These systems are designed to make sense of all the information in your environment, to allow us to act and engage in activities of everyday life. 

Sensory Sensitivity

In the world of occupational therapy, we talk about the importance of using sensory input to help the body feel regulated, but the body can also have challenges tolerating and managing certain sensory inputs. We often refer to this as sensory sensitivity. Sensory sensitivity often occurs when our body is exposed to a sensation that it is not able to understand. This commonly happens for children who have challenges with sensory processing. Sensory sensitivity to touch can cause a large emotional response or can result in children becoming frustrated or refusing to wear clothing. 

Therapist brushing child's hand with therapeutic brush

What can I do about it?

There are many ways to support the body to better tolerate these tactile sensory inputs. A tool that we often recommend is  the Wilbarger Therapressure Protocol. This program is designed to be implemented multiple times throughout the day to reduce tactile defensiveness. Other tools that we may also recommend include compression garments, to support and ground a child’s nervous system. These garments are often worn under the child’s clothing. Other options for intervention include Therapeutic Listening and QuickShifts, which are modulated music designed to promote positive changes to neural pathways in the brain. These strategies and tools are best completed under the guidance of a trained occupational therapist. To find out more about sensory sensitivity and treatment options, reach out to MoveAbout Therapy Services today! 

If you feel like your child is struggling with sensory processing talk to an occupational therapist for further guidance. Contact MoveAbout today. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more education regarding sensory processing and regulation.

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What is Co-Regulation?

Author: Kimberley Taylor, Paediatric Occupational Therapist
5 min read

What is co-regulation? Parents and carers of young children are often engaging in co-regulation without even knowing it – but once you understand the technique, you can use it to support a healthy and supportive environment for your child.“

What is co-regulation? Get down and communicate with kids at their level.

To understand co-regulation, we first need to understand the concept of ‘self-regulation’. Simply put, self-regulation is your ability to adjust your level of alertness to match the task that you are doing. Our level of alertness varies throughout the day, and what might be appropriate at one moment may not be appropriate at another. For example, if you are highly alert in the evening, falling asleep might be difficult. Likewise, if you’re in a low alert state during an important meeting, you could struggle to focus. Self-regulation allows us to correct our level of alertness. 

So, what is co-regulation?

Co-regulation occurs when a parent or another trusted adult supports a child to feel regulated. This is done by modelling, guiding, and coaching the child through their emotions and responses to a situation. It’s teaching through doing. 

Kids can’t self-regulate until they can co-regulate. Typically, the ability to self-regulate doesn’t begin until the age of seven or eight, but co-regulation begins while you’re in the womb. Within neurodiverse populations, the capacity to self-regulate may occur much later in childhood or even not at all. Understanding co-regulation is vital if we are to support our kids in their everyday lives.

Clues to a child’s regulation level:

Posture and movement/activity level

Is the child slouched over? Or are their shoulders high against their ears? Are they moving fast? Or are they moving slow?

Emotional tone 

What feelings/emotions are they conveying in their voice, face, body?

Voice

Are they speaking in a high or low pitch? Does it sound strained?

What is co-regulation? Look for facial clues to understand your child's state of regulation.
Face and mouth

Are they gritting their teeth? Are their eyebrows raised? This can also include any sounds they may be making.

Breath and heart rate

Is their breathing short and shallow? Is their heart beating fast? Are they holding their breath?

How do we achieve co-regulation?

There are a number of strategies we can use help achieve co-regulation:

Be the stronger rhythm

  • Remember that in order to co-regulate, you also need to be regulated. What strategies do you use to calm down or stay focused? Make sure you’re doing something everyday to help keep your own body regulated.
  • Avoid using strategies that are going to dysregulate you. For example, certain types of music, sounds, lighting, etc.

Breath

  • Model taking slow deep breaths to your child whenever you feel frustrated or upset. The more they see you breathe, the more they will breathe. 

Be aware of your voice

  • Bigger is not always better. Raising your voice may only escalate your child even further. 
  • Another way to provide intensity without volume is to whisper, or make your voice song-like.

Position your body

  • Consider where you position yourself. Standing tall in front of your child can be intimidating for them, try crouching down to their level or moving side-by-side rather than in front of them. 
  • Sometimes the best thing you can do is wait and be present in the room. Being a calm presence, without using words, can be powerful for co-regulating your child.  

Use your emotional facial expression

  • Let your child know that you understand how they’re feeling. You can say, “I can see that you’re upset”, “I hear you, you are angry”. Make sure that your tone of voice, gestures, and body language matches your facial expression.

An occupational therapist can help assist and coach you through these strategies and tailor an approach to support your child’s regulation. If you’d like to know more about regulation and how occupational therapy could help your child, contact the team at MoveAbout Therapy Services today.

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