Thoughtful Thursday & Toddler Brains
ON THE BLOG
TODDLER BRAINS
The other day my 4 year old granddaughter didn't get something she wanted.
She got mad.
She yelled.
She pouted.
She stomped off.
Just like a 4-year-old who throws a tantrum when they don't get what they want, our lower brain, which is responsible for our survival, reacts similarly to danger or pain.
It seeks pleasure and conserves energy to keep us alive.
On the other hand, our higher brain, which functions like an adult in the story, is responsible for creativity, imagination, decision making, and problem-solving.
We need both brains as they work together to regulate our behavior and emotions 24/7.
When we react emotionally to a situation, it can often make things worse.
However, maintaining control of our emotions can help us soothe our lower brain and find solutions to the problem.
So, next time your toddler brain starts to freak out, don't get mad at it.
Instead, remind it that everything will be okay, calm and soothe it, and even love it for how it keeps you alive.
Then, get to work on thriving in your life with the help of your higher brain.
