VIDEO-The Science Behind Emotional Regulation: Mirror Neurons and How They Shape Our Parenting

When your child is upset, do you ever notice yourself feeling just as overwhelmed—even if the situation has nothing to do with you? That’s not just empathy; it’s neuroscience. In this video, Dr. Adam explores the science behind emotional regulationand how something called mirror neurons plays a powerful role in the emotional connection between you and your child.

Mirror neurons are specialized brain cells that cause us to “mirror” the emotions and behaviors of those around us. For parents, this means your child’s distress can actually trigger similar emotional responses in your own brain—making it harder to stay calm when they’re struggling. But here’s the good news: by learning to regulate your own emotions, you create a calm, stable emotional environment your child can mirror in return. This process, called emotional co-regulation, is a vital part of your child’s emotional development and resilience.

In this video, we break down how mirror neurons work, why they matter in parenting, and practical steps you can take to stay grounded—even in the middle of a meltdown. Understanding this emotional dance between you and your child can shift the way you show up as a parent, creating deeper connection and healthier emotional habits for both of you.

Parenting isn’t just about managing your child’s emotions—it’s about learning to manage your own. By embracing the science behind emotional regulation, you can create deeper emotional connections with your child and equip them with the tools they need to navigate their own feelings throughout life. If you’d like some support learning how to better manage your reactions (most of use were never taught how to do this well in Childhood), Dr. Kayfitz specializes in working with adults and parents and is currently accepting new clients.  You can book your first apppointment with him at the link below.