Ep 157: Movement as Regulation: Spicy Kids

Move Your DNA Weekends 2025

Biomechanist Katy Bowman and Parent Coach Mary Van Geffen talk about “Movement As Regulation” for spicy kids. Independent, non-conformist, neurodivergent and sensitive kids can be particularly thrown off kilter by social and movement restrictions. Mary and Katy discuss the need for these kids to express their feelings in a physical way. They unpack different types of movement, focussing particularly on outdoor play, big-body movement, combative play and controlled destruction, all of which can defuse the intensity of feeling and foster a sense of autonomy.

Learn how as a parent, the number one tool in your toolbox is your body; why physical closeness, modelling movement and moving with your kids can support their physical and emotional needs. They give numerous fun examples of games and strategies you can try with the spicy ones® in your life.