A–Z Glossary

Limbic system

The limbic system is a brain system involved in emotional responses and heightened sensitivity to danger or stress.

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What to do when a child becomes upset by small disappointments

What to do when a child becomes upset by small disappointments

Understand why small disappointments can feel so big For adults, a small disappointment may look objectively minor. For a young child, however, the intensity is often real. The prefrontal cortex, which supports inhibition, planning, flexible thinking, and perspective-taking, matures gradually across childhood and adolescence. The limbic system, which helps generate threat responses and strong emotions, […]

How to support child in difficult situations

How to support child in difficult situations

Start by regulating yourself In difficult situations, children scan caregivers for cues about danger. This is not manipulation or weakness; it reflects normal neurobiology. A child’s limbic system, especially under stress, is highly responsive to adult tone of voice, facial expression, posture, and predictability. If the adult appears panicked, dismissive, or explosive, the child’s arousal […]