Simple Ways to Optimize the Nervous System for Learning Success: Polyvagal Theory 101

Dr. Debra Em Wilson joins the Voices in Montessori podcast to discuss Polyvagal Theory and how we can apply it to the work we do with our students. Debra is a teacher and the author of The Polyvagal Path to Joyful Learning: Transforming Classrooms One Nervous System at a Time. She explains the three main nervous system states - ventral vagal, sympathetic, and dorsal vagal - and how each state provides valuable information about learning readiness.

Dr. Wilson explains that dysregulation is caused by disconnection from regulating resources. So what are the regulating resources for the nervous system, and how do we teach ourselves and others to access those resources when needed? She provides a formula for safety, connection, and retuning the nervous system. Dr. Wilson explains how these skills can be utilized by teachers and taught to our students, resulting in more joy - both in and out of the classroom.