The Vagal Playground: Play, Presence & Nervous System Rewiring

Teach clinicians how to use polyvagal-informed play (Porges) to change physiology, and strengthen neuroception of safety.

1. Identify the three autonomic states and name blended states during play, linking each to observable play behaviors and vagal physiology.
2. Demonstrate three play-based interventions grounded in Porges’ polyvagal framework that recruit ventral vagal tone, teach vagus nerve basics, and strengthen neuroception of safety.
3. Explain the powers of play and how play-based corrective sensory experiences change physiology, rewire limbic responses, and restore a felt sense of self.
4. Design a 10-minute play sequence that uses sensory play, titrated challenge, and repair to promote bottom-up rewiring of the trauma-impacted brain and body.
5. Coach a caregiver to lead one 60-second daily play ritual and one 10-minute caregiver-child practice that repeatedly cues safety, consolidates neuroception of safety, and supports reattachment to self.