Ep. 221: A Brain-Based Way to Understand Baffling Behavior

Could you use a short refresher about what I mean when I say your child’s "owl brain flew away"? Or do yoRu know someone who is willing to listen to a short explanation of how you’re approaching your child’s baffling behaviors?

In this episode, I revisit - briefly- what behavior really is and the owl, watchdog, and possum brain metaphor. I explain why it's such a helpful way to understand your child's baffling behaviors. I also talk about what actually helps those protective brains calm down so the owl can return.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What the owl, watchdog, and possum brains really represent in your child’s behavior.
• How to recognize which brain state is in charge.
• Why our goal isn’t to fix the behavior but to offer regulation, connection, and safety.

Resources mentioned in this podcast:

• Focus on the Nervous System to Change Behavior {EP 84}
  • Webinar and eBook - Focus on the Nervous System
• START HERE podcast
• Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors
• All Behavior Makes Sense infographic
• Owl, Watchdog, Possum fridge sheet packet

Read the full transcript at: RobynGobbel.com/brainbasedunderstanding

The Guided Journal will ship to your mailbox on September 21 2026 if you pre-order NOW!

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If you pre-order TWO or more copies of the new Guided Journal for Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors, you'll get a FREE ticket for Baffling Behaviors LIVE in Richmond, VA!  A four-hour training for parents and caregivers- plus you'll get lunch, snacks, coffee, and some great take-home materials.

You can also SPONSOR this event! Help my team and I really nurture and care for burned out parents.

RobynGobbel.com

Grab a copy of USA Today Best Selling book Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors robyngobbel.com/book

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Sign up on the waiting list for the 2027 Cohorts of the Baffling Behavior Training Institute's Immersion Program for Professionals robyngobbel.com/Immersion

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Over on my website you can find:
Webinar and eBook on Focus on the Nervous System to Change Behavior (FREE)
eBook on The Brilliance of Attachment (FREE)
LOTS & LOTS of FREE Resources
Ongoing support, connection, and co-regulation for struggling parents: The Club
Year-Long Immersive & Holistic Training Program for Parenting Professionals: The Baffling Behavior Training Institute’s (BBTI) Professional Immersion Program (formerly Being With)