Using the Right Strategy at the Right Time ⏲️

How often have you observed a student repeat the same behavior, even though they can articulate what they did wrong afterward? It’s a mix of frustration and realization—they know the expectation, but when it matters most, they’re unable to access it.

The key lies in the neurobiology of brain and body states. When a student is dysregulated, their brain and body are not in a state where they can access the higher brain regions needed for problem-solving or understanding the consequences of their actions. This is why timing is everything when it comes to implementing strategies.

Have you ever learned a new strategy during a training, tried it in the classroom, and found it actually escalated the situation? You’re not alone. The effectiveness of a strategy is often not just about what you do, but when you do it. When students are dysregulated, their brain stem takes over, and approaches that rely on reasoning or logic can fall flat. Matching strategies to the student’s current brain and body state is crucial for success.✨

Key Insights

To effectively manage dysregulated moments:

  • Avoid escalating the situation: Address students in ways that meet them where they are—starting with their brain and body states.
  • Prepare brains and bodies to learn: Understanding and aligning strategies with their current state can increase the likelihood of a successful intervention.

Practical Takeaways

When supporting students with their behavior:

  • Match the strategy to the state: Choose strategies that align with the student’s current brain and body state. Mismatched approaches can inadvertently escalate behavior.
  • Be present in the moment: In situations of dysregulation, co-regulation is key. Help students move through their dysregulated state with appropriate strategies.

As you continue your journey of supporting educators and students, remember that small shifts can create significant changes. Understanding and working with the neurobiology of behavior can help you navigate these challenges with greater success. You’re not alone in this work—we’re here to support, encourage, and grow alongside you.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible community. We can’t wait to hear how these insights and strategies make a difference in your classrooms.

In partnership and support, 💛 

Judy & Team SEI

In Case You Missed It: Video 3 – The Classroom is a Nervous System: Working with Daily Regulation & Dysregulation Cycles

Learn how regulation and dysregulation affect students and adults throughout the day. In this video, Judy explains how moments of regulation in the midst of dysregulation can help shift student behaviors and improve overall well-being. By viewing your classroom as a collective nervous system, you can support entire groups of students without overwhelming your own system.

Ready to empower yourself and your students? Watch the video series now!