Families For Life | Emotions and Play: Preschoolers
When we talk about a child’s ‘upstairs brain’, we mean the part that helps them think clearly, solve problems and manage their feelings. It’s where focus, memory and self-control live. But the upstairs brain is delicate. When a child feels safe and comforted — through a calm word, a steady routine or a caring touch — it stays switched on. That’s when they can listen, learn and make good choices.
When stress hits, the brain flips into ‘survival mode’. The upstairs brain goes quiet, and the ‘downstairs brain’ takes over — fuelling big emotions such as anger or fear, and quick reactions like fight, flight or freeze.
Gentle, consistent responses from adults can bring the upstairs brain back online. Small acts, such as naming an emotion or keeping routines steady, help children reconnect and feel safe to learn again.
Contributed by: Beanstalk (ECDA)