Center for Optimal Brain Integration

Five-year-old Michael had been living with ongoing stress at home, so his body was often on high alert at school. One morning in class, a sudden loud crash from a dropped chair sent him into panic and his heart raced, he covered his ears, and began to cry and yell, unable to calm down. Instead of directing him with lots of words, his teacher gently guided him toward the block area where Mateo usually felt safe and he began stacking blocks and knocking them down, then rebuilding and knocking them down again.

As the play continued, Michael shifted into pretend play, turning the blocks into a “safe tower” and inviting the teacher to help protect it, which allowed him to regain a sense of control and have connection with a safe adult. Within minutes, his body softened, his voice steadied, and he was able to rejoin the class.

Using play to move from fear back to regulation without needing complex language or direct instruction (or punishment, threats, bribes, direction and correction to make him listen).

“Play supports emotions and is an essential pathway to creating emotional safety and optimal regulation.”

We are so proud of one of our COBI family members Robin Newman Pence for this incredible 2-minute testimonial of the power of Wellness Coaches in Elementary Schools. She talks about how when children are sent to the office they are not learning anything. Dr. Viktor Frankl says that in between when we are triggered emotionally and when we react harshly, there is a space in between. In that space we have the power to choose. Robin says, that counselors, coaches, wellness coaches can be that space in between to support the teacher and more importantly take time to connect, calm and teach the student resilience and coping skills. We love you Robin! Thank you for all you do in Marin County at the Mariposa Center.

Certified Wellness Coach | Robin Pence Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.