Each year, we share some of the books, articles, websites, videos and podcasts we at iLs have found compelling. We hope they will supplement your understanding of the principles of learning and neuroplasticity that are central to how and why iLs is effective. And some, we hope, will just put a smile on your face.
Books:
The Pocket Guide to The Polyvagal Theory: The Transformative Power of Feeling Safe by Stephen W. Porges, PhD
The conversational style of this book makes Polyvagal Theory much more accessible. It’s a helpful companion to a practice using the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
Social Emotional Development in Early Intervention: A Skills Guide for Working with Children by Mona Delahooke, PhD
Dr. Lucy Jane Miller calls this a “hopeful and sensitive book”. And, indeed, it incorporates the principles of the Polyvagal Theory to support the social-emotional and cognitive growth of children. As Dr. Delahooke says, “when we feel safe in body and mind, we can explore, take risks, learn and grow.”
The Art of Being Human: Learning to Live a Meaningful, Joyful Life by Joanna Hambidge
This book is a delightful reminder for people of all ages to make each day meaningful and worthy of the gift it is. It would be a terrific addition to your library or waiting room.
If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face? by Alan Alda
Among the praise for the book, this blurb stood out: “Alan Alda is a man with a mission. He began with a passion to help scientists communicate with a lay audience, then realized that the skills and insights of improv that he’d learned as an actor could be transformative for everyone for whom communication is essential. And that is who will find his book invaluable: everyone.”—Deborah Tannen, #1 New York Times bestselling author of You’re the Only One I Can Tell and You Just Don’t Understand
Articles:
The message in this enjoyable 3-minute read by Ruth Whippman, “Happiness is Other People,” is that good social relationships are the strongest, most consistent predictor there is of a happy life”. Dr. Porges would approve.
“The Amazing, Tumultuous, Wild, Wonderful Teenage Brain” by Daniel Siegel, MD looks at adolescence as not just a period of brain growth to survive, but as a possibility for building resilience, independence and self-awareness.
Websites/Newsletters:
Helpful information and ideas for parents, therapists and friends of children of all ages and abilities.
Like the name indicates, this really is a “great” monthly newsletter. They also offer a specific email tailored to individual grades and developmental stages with plenty of ideas for supporting your child’s learning.
Developed by Dr. Jennifer Brout and Shaylynn Hayes, both sufferers of Misophonia, the website Misophonia International is a resource connecting researchers, sufferers and advocates of Misophonia. It provides scientific resources like books and articles about the disorder.
Videos/Podcasts:
TED Radio Hour: “Nadine Burke Harris: How Does Trauma Affect a Child’s DNA?”
In twelve minutes, learn more about how one’s biology and experiences – especially Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) – determine who we are.
TED-Ed on Music: “Why We Love Repetition in Music” by Elizabeth Hellmuth Margulis
A short (4 ½ minute) description of why rhythmic repetition in music can be so mesmerizing and how the “mere exposure effect” can make things grow sweeter simply as they become familiar.
Interoception: The New Topic in Autism
Kelly Mahler at Mahler Autism Services has created this very helpful 5-minute video that clearly describes our 8th sensory system: Interoception.
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