Dr. Mona Delahooke’s Brain-Body Parenting offers a compassionate, science-informed approach to understanding and supporting children with challenging behaviors. Grounded in developmental neuroscience and trauma-informed practice, the book shifts the focus from behavior control to regulation: when children act out, their nervous systems—not willpower—are often driving the response.
Delahooke explains how sensory experiences, stress physiology, and early attachment shape behavior, and she outlines practical tools parents and caregivers can use to co-regulate, repair ruptures, and build internal resilience. One practical tool Delahooke recommends is co-regulation using rhythmic breathing plus gentle movement to downshift a child’s arousal.
Why it helps - Sensory input (movement) and a steady rhythm engage the body’s calming systems and give the nervous system an alternate physical focus, restoring access to higher-order thinking. When to use it - During transitions, after meltdowns, or any time the child shows signs of dysregulation (shutting down, hyperactivity, intense crying/anger). Tip - Practice when the child is calm, before it is needed, so the pattern becomes recognizable and easy to access in stressful moments. For complete How to use it, please refer to the book.
The book includes clear explanations of complex brain-body mechanisms, relatable examples, and a toolbox of accessible strategies many of which can be adapted across ages and needs. The tone is empathic and validates parent frustration while offering hopeful solutions.
The author reframes misbehavior as communication and equips adults to respond in ways that heal and strengthen development. This is reminiscent of earlier authors and for that reason, it may seem a little repetitive to some.
Overall, Brain-Body Parenting is a valuable resource for parents who want a kinder, more effective way to help dysregulated children.
