Does your child have sensitivities to sound? Difficulties with auditory processing? Behavioral outbursts? Inability to focus or sit still? Anxiety in social situations?
After many years of research by Dr. Stephen Porges, The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) was developed based upon his Polyvagal Theory. It is a five day intervention designed to bring your child’s nervous system from a state of feeling defensive, cautious, or nervous (otherwise known as a fight or flight state) to a feeling of calmness and safety. A state of calmness (otherwise known as self-regulation) encourages better focus, listening, and socializing with family and friends.
Your child will listen to child themed and popular vocal music one hour per day for five days. The uniquely designed music helps to exercise the muscles of the middle ear which are a direct connection to the viscera and nervous system which controls self-regulation. The SSP music provides signals of safety to calm the body’s defense systems which then enhances focus, listening, and looking.
It is recommended to use the SSP in conjunction with an occupational therapy program. SSP helps to balance your child’s nervous system, which in turn increases the benefit of an occupational therapy program as it further impacts the neuroplasticity of the brain through consistent exposure.