Are you overwhelmed by emotional dysregulation in yourself or your family? Nisa Esther Harris's Polyvagal Playdate offers a groundbreaking, somatic approach to restoring emotional balance. Using the engaging children's story "Polly's Bagel Magic," this interactive guide simplifies the Polyvagal theory, making it accessible for both parents and professionals. Through hands-on activities and DIY tools, you'll learn sensory-based techniques to manage stress, foster connection, and improve family relationships. Whether you're seeking solutions for ADHD, anxiety, or simply better emotional regulation, Polyvagal Playdate provides a practical, compassionate path towards healthier, more connected family life. This book serves as a therapy companion, caregiver guide, and family activity book all in one.
Review Polyvagal Playdate
"Polyvagal Playdate" isn't just another parenting guide; it's a lifeline. Reading it felt like discovering a hidden pathway to understanding and managing the often-overwhelming world of emotional regulation, both for myself and for the children in my life. Nisa Harris has masterfully woven together complex scientific concepts – the Polyvagal Theory, in this case – with relatable storytelling and practical, hands-on activities. The book doesn't shy away from the challenges of managing difficult emotions, but instead, presents them with a gentle, empathetic approach.
What impressed me most was the accessibility of the information. Harris avoids jargon, instead employing clear, concise language and clever metaphors, making the often-complex Polyvagal Theory surprisingly easy to grasp. The "Polly's Bagel Magic" story, a delightful children's tale woven into the text, serves as a brilliant tool for explaining these complex ideas to young children in a way that's engaging and memorable. It’s a testament to the author's skill in bridging the gap between complex scientific understanding and practical application.
Beyond the storytelling, the book is packed with tangible tools and techniques. The interactive elements – the activities, the DIY guides – truly set it apart. It’s not just passive reading; it's a journey of self-discovery and skill-building. The somatic approach, focusing on the body's connection to emotions, resonated deeply with me. It offers a different lens through which to view and address emotional challenges, moving beyond solely cognitive strategies.
The book's impact extends beyond individual emotional regulation; it strengthens family connections. The focus on creating a safe and understanding environment within the family unit is crucial, and the book provides a framework for achieving this. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of emotions within a family system, highlighting how a parent's well-being directly impacts their children, and vice versa. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of self-care for caregivers, often a neglected aspect of parenting and family life.
While the book is tailored to parents and professionals working with children, its message resonates far beyond this audience. The techniques are applicable to adults as well, offering a path towards greater self-awareness and emotional resilience. The emphasis on recognizing and responding to triggers, and the gentle, encouraging tone, makes it a valuable resource for anyone struggling with managing their own emotions or supporting someone who is.
In short, "Polyvagal Playdate" is a valuable and impactful book that seamlessly integrates scientific knowledge with practical application, creating a resource that is both informative and empowering. It's a book I wholeheartedly recommend, and one I will undoubtedly refer back to again and again. It's a testament to the power of compassionate understanding and the transformative potential of somatic awareness.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.44 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 191
- Publication date: 2024
Book table of contents
- Know the Book
- Polly's Bagels and the Polyvagal Theory: What is Polyvagal Theory?
- Why Plain, Garlic and Poppyseed Flavored Bagel in the Story?
- Matching Bagel /Vagal / Nerve States
- 'Polly's Bagel Magic'
- Further Discussion Opportunity
- Our Senses and the Vagal Nerves
- Safe Space, Inner Critic, and Boundaries
- How do Polly's "Bagel Breaks" Relate to the Polyvagal Theory?
- How can you Tell When You are Playing Out 'Old Patterns that Your Body Learned?
- Who Can Benefit From Taking "Bagel Breaks" & Rewiring Their Nervous System?
- Self-Check-In.
- Primary Colors Mix, Your Nervous System States Mix Too
- Adapted Siegel Hand Brain Model _ What if You Can't Tell What Bagel/ Vagal State You are in Now?
- Intentions and Core Beliefs
- Goals: What do You do Once You Know Your Bagel / Vagal State?
Preview Book
