
Stamback
Kara
coaching and
neurofeedback
Kids and Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback as a resource for kids is one of the things I'm most excited about. It's so hard to watch a child struggle with feelings and thinking that they can't control and that frighten them or compromise their ability to function well in life. Neurofeedback calms down the central nervous system and makes it easier to interface with the challenges and stresses of life. Neuroptimal Neurofeedback is such a wonderful resource because it works on a foundational level so that as a child's brain becomes more optimized, all boats rise with the tide: Focus increases, improves sleep habits, they get over their upset more quickly (and get upset less often).

Although neurofeedback is not a treatment for any symptom or diagnosis, it can benefit any brain and a more functional brain can have an effect on how we operate in life. Common reasons parents seek out neurofeedback for their kids: anxiety, fear, ADHD, managing emotional difficulties associated with dyslexia, autism spectrum, Asperger syndrome, developmental disorders and even concussions. This is not a treatment for any diagnosis. It does not treat the symptoms of any of the issues listed, it is just a training that strengthens the brain which helps a person self-regulate more effectively which supports all other functioning.
"Brain training makes my brain feel more organized. I have better access to my words after training which makes homework so much easier."
Here are the things I love about neurofeedback with kids:
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They don't have to talk. I think therapy could benefit a lot of children but it's hard for them to feel comfortable talking to an adult, often they don't have the maturity to know what's bothering them or to be able to use the new perspective that a therapist can offer or quite often they have already talked about themselves more than they want to with parents, teachers, principals or therapists. Neurofeedback skips that and helps them reorganize their brain without the discomfort of looking at what's wrong
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It avoids the stigma of feeling like there's something wrong with them, it's just "brain maintenance". My daughter calls it "the calm down machine". Everybody can benefit from calming down. Self consciousness is a developmental struggle that is a quiet but oppressive force for children of every age. This modality, although kids may think it's "weird", is easier for them to be a part of. The logic of it is more like taking vitamins for general health than taking a pill for an ailment.
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It doesn't require any effort on their part. They do not have to focus on anything, participate or do anything to help the process. It is sometimes a struggle for them to sit still and they can be uncomfortable with weird things attached to their head but they adjust to that pretty quickly and you notice that they settle down into the routine and usually enjoy the relaxing nature of it by the end of the series.
Note: this modality has a lot of potential but parent's expectations are a factor. I offer a parent consultation to discuss what you can expect, what to look for, how to manage your expectations for yourself and your child. But that being said, helping a child calm down is a gift for them and a gift for you and affects more that you may imagine.
One more note: I highly recommend that you consider doing this program with your child. It's not necessary, of course, but it gives it more credibility, normalizes it and puts you "in it together". The biggest selling point is the result it can have on you, your life and your family. If you have a child that needs to calm down, than you're likely making up for it in some way. It's taking a toll on you. You will be a more effective, patient, creative parent and you will enjoy parenting more. I offer a discount if you and your child would like to do sessions at the same time. You could also consider a coaching program to support your role as a parent. Ask me about it.