Helping Little Nervous Systems Feel Safe: How We Use Polyvagal Theory in Paediatric OT

Helping Little Nervous Systems Feel Safe: How We Use Polyvagal Theory in Paediatric OT

At Seeds OT, we believe that connection comes before correction. Helping a child feel safe in their body is the foundation for learning, emotional regulation, and growth. That’s why polyvagal theory is an important part of how we support children and families.

You might be wondering, what is polyvagal theory—and what does it have to do with occupational therapy?

What is Polyvagal Theory?

Polyvagal theory was developed by Dr Stephen Porges. It gives us a framework for understanding how the nervous system responds to safety, danger, and stress. It helps explain why some children:

• shut down or become overwhelmed in busy places

• have trouble with transitions or unexpected changes

• react strongly to situations that seem small from the outside

• seem constantly “on edge,” anxious, or overly alert

Rather than seeing these behaviours as intentional or defiant, polyvagal theory helps us recognise them as the body’s way of trying to protect itself. It’s not misbehaviour—it’s a nervous system doing its best to feel safe.

The Three Main States of the Nervous System

Polyvagal theory describes three main states:

When a child feels safe and connected, they’re in what’s called a "ventral vagal" state. In this state, they can engage socially, play, learn, and feel calm.

When a child perceives a threat, their nervous system may shift into "fight or flight," also known as the sympathetic state. This can look like anxiety, anger, restlessness, or impulsivity.

If the nervous system becomes overwhelmed and the child can’t escape or fight, they may go into a "shutdown" state (dorsal vagal). This can look like zoning out, going flat, or withdrawing emotionally or physically.

Children (and adults) move between these states throughout the day. But some kids can become stuck in fight, flight, or freeze, which affects how they experience the world, how they interact with others, and how they learn and grow.

How We Use Polyvagal Theory at Seeds OT

At Seeds OT, we use polyvagal theory to guide the way we interact with children and design therapy. We start by creating a sense of safety—through warm connection, predictability, and gentle curiosity.

We look beneath the behaviour to understand what a child’s nervous system might be communicating. For example, if a child becomes dysregulated, we might offer calming sensory input, movement, or quiet co-regulation—depending on what that particular child needs in the moment.

We also work closely with parents and carers, helping you understand your child’s cues and how to support them at home and in the community. We know that when you understand your child’s nervous system, it becomes easier to respond with confidence and care.

Every strategy we offer is tailored to your child’s individual nervous system. Some kids need more movement. Others need quiet and softness. Others need strong, stable routines. All children need to feel safe.

What This Might Look Like in Therapy

A child who tends to melt down after school might benefit from deep pressure play and a quiet space to unwind before doing anything else.

A child who fidgets constantly may need movement breaks woven into their day—not as a reward, but as something their body genuinely needs to stay regulated.

A child who shuts down when asked to try something new might need a slow, playful approach that builds confidence and trust before we focus on the task itself.

Why It Matters

When we understand how the nervous system works, we stop asking, “Why is my child doing this?” and instead ask, “What does their nervous system need right now?”