9. Parenting the Nervous System: What Our Kids Teach Us About Repair

Parenting isn’t just about what we say. It's about what our nervous system communicates. In this episode, Leanna shares how co-regulation, attunement, and the 4Ns can transform daily stress into connection. You’ll hear: ✨ Why children sense our stress even when we say “I’m fine.” ✨ How age-appropriate honesty builds safety. ✨ Why “Because I said so” can disconnect and what to say instead. ✨ How the parts of us that never got repair often show up to parent. ✨ Simple ways to use the 4Ns during the holidays to stay grounded and connected.Referenced ResearchFeldman, R. (2017). The neurobiology of human attachments. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 21(2), 80–99. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2016.11.007Lieberman, M. D., et al. (2007). Putting feelings into words: Affect labeling disrupts amygdala activity. Psychological Science, 18(5), 421–428. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2007.01916.xMain, M., & Goldwyn, R. (1998). Adult attachment scoring and classification system. Unpublished manuscript, University of California, Berkeley.Porges, S. W. (2011). The polyvagal theory. New York, NY: Norton.Schore, A. N. (2001). Effects of a secure attachment relationship on right brain development. Infant Mental Health Journal, 22(1-2), 7–66.Schwartz, R. C. (1995). Internal family systems therapy. New York, NY: Guilford Press.Schwartz, R. C., & Sweezy, M. (2021). Internal family systems therapy (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press.Siegel, D. J. (1999). The developing mind. New York, NY: Guilford Press.Siegel, D. J. (2012). The whole-brain child. New York, NY: Random House.Tronick, E. (2007). The neurobehavioral and social-emotional development of infants and children. New York, NY: Norton.Tronick, E., & Beeghly, M. (2011). Infants’ meaning-making and mental health. American Psychologist, 66(2), 107–119. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0021631Research Integrity DisclaimerThis episode draws upon evidence-based frameworks in neuroscience, attachment theory, and trauma-informed practice. Concepts such as neuroception (Porges, 2011), biobehavioral synchrony (Feldman, 2017), rupture and repair (Tronick, 2007), affect labeling (Lieberman et al., 2007), and integration (Siegel, 1999, 2012) are described here in alignment with the published research that informs them.All information shared is intended for educational and reflective purposes only and should not be taken as a substitute for therapy, diagnosis, or medical treatment.Join the NeuroHeir Membership todayConnect with me: Instagram → @aligningwithleannaWebsite → leannahunt.comDisclaimer: Although I am a licensed Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor, The NeuroHeir℠ Podcast is not a substitute for therapy, counseling, or medical treatment. The tools and practices I share are for educational and coaching purposes only. Every nervous system is unique, and what we discuss on this podcast should not replace your own individual therapeutic work or professional support.The focus of this podcast is my coaching work, which centers on education, nervous system practices, and generational healing tools designed to support—not replace—your personal journey with a qualified provider.If you are struggling with your mental health or experiencing overwhelming emotions, please seek support from a licensed professional in your area. You don’t have to do this work alone.