Is a Nervous System Imbalance Sabotaging Your Child’s School Year?
If you’re a parent who’s tried everything—behavior charts, talks with counselors, maybe even considered medication—and you’re still looking for answers, we get it.
Some of us have been there ourselves, staying up at night worrying about sending our children with ADHD or SPD back to school. We’ve dreaded the phone calls from teachers about focus issues, dealt with the meltdowns over homework, and watched our brilliant children struggle in an environment that just doesn’t seem to work for their brains.
And you’re not alone. A staggering 1 million more U.S. children were diagnosed with ADHD in 2022 than in 2016, and nearly 1 in 6 children now face sensory processing challenges. Yet for many, the approach to these conditions is stuck in the past, focused on managing symptoms instead of getting to the root cause.
But what if there was a completely different approach—one that helps children not just survive the school year, but actually thrive?
Janine’s Story: From Overwhelmed to Thriving
Let us tell you about Janine. She came to our office as a teenager, overwhelmed by sensory processing struggles. Things like physical touch, crowds, and loud noises would send her into a state of anxiety. It made school and even simple tasks like going to the store incredibly difficult for her and her family.
We discovered that Janine was so easily overwhelmed because her nervous system had a ton of built-up stress. Through Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care, we helped calm the “noise” inside her sensitive body. Today, Janine says chiropractic “helps me live.” When she gets overwhelmed now, her anxiety is at a level 3 or 4, a huge difference from the 8 or 9 it used to be. She’s doing so well that she’s even considering becoming a chiropractor herself!
Janine’s story is amazing, and what’s so encouraging is that she’s not the only one who has seen this kind of transformation. So, let’s talk about the real reason behind ADHD, SPD, and all the tough transitions of the school year.
The Real Root Cause of ADHD and SPD Struggles
The truth is, ADHD and SPD are often linked to an overactive “fight or flight” nervous system. This is the imbalance that’s sabotaging your child’s school year.
This overactive state leaves children constantly on edge, making it almost impossible to focus, switch between activities, or manage their emotions at school. At the same time, their “rest and digest” system—which is key for learning and emotional balance—is underactive.
This imbalance often starts with what we call “The Perfect Storm”—early life stressors like prenatal stress, birth interventions, or environmental factors that leave the nervous system stuck in a state of dysfunction.
But here’s the good news: there are drug-free strategies that can make a huge difference. Let’s explore five powerful approaches that can transform your child’s school experience this year.
1. The Sleep Foundation That Changes Everything
Good sleep is absolutely essential for managing ADHD and SPD symptoms. It’s when the brain processes emotions and recharges for the next day. But many children with these conditions struggle with sleep, creating a frustrating cycle.
What you can do:
- Gradually adjust bedtimes and wake times by just 15 minutes every few days.
- Create a calming bedtime routine to signal to the nervous system that it’s time to wind down.
- Make the bedroom a sleep-friendly environment with minimal distractions.
Improving sleep can dramatically improve focus and emotional regulation during school. Think of sleep as the foundation that makes everything else possible.
2. Creating a Structure That Actually Works
Children with ADHD and SPD often struggle with executive function. This isn’t a character flaw—it’s how their nervous system processes information and manages tasks.
Creating an organized home with a “command center,” designated spots for school stuff, and color-coded systems can help reduce anxiety and make children feel more in control.
The key insight here is that this isn’t just about being neat. It’s about reducing the mental load on an already overwhelmed nervous system, freeing up that energy for learning and growth.
Practical steps:
- Create a dedicated homework station with all supplies within reach.
- Use visual schedules and color-coding for different subjects or activities.
- Establish consistent routines for morning and after-school transitions.
- Have a specific place for backpacks, shoes, and other school materials.
3. The Exercise Connection That Rivals Medication
Dr. John Ratey’s research in his book, “Spark,” shows that exercise can be as effective as medication for some children with ADHD. Physical activity can improve cognitive function, boost mood, and help manage anxiety naturally.
Specifically, morning physical activity helps activate the “rest and digest” nervous system and improves brain function throughout the day. This gives children the internal regulation they need to succeed academically and socially.
Simple ways to incorporate movement:
- Start the day with 10-15 minutes of physical activity.
- Try jumping jacks, running in place, or dancing.
- Walk or bike to school if you can.
- Encourage movement breaks during homework time.
The key is consistency, not intensity. Even gentle movement can make a big difference in your child’s ability to focus and regulate emotions.
4. Nutrition and Hydration: Fueling the Nervous System
Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in nervous system function. A well-nourished brain is better equipped to handle the demands of school.
Focus on:
- Consistent mealtimes to keep blood sugar stable.
- Enough protein to support brain chemicals.
- Staying hydrated throughout the day.
- Limiting processed foods and artificial additives that can increase hyperactivity.
5. Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care: The Missing Piece
Maybe you’ve tried all the strategies above and still haven’t seen the changes you’re hoping for. It might be time to consider what could be the missing foundational piece.
Through gentle, specific adjustments, Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care works to release tension in the overactive nervous system while activating the calming “rest and digest” system, including the vital vagus nerve.
Many practices like ours in Orland Park, IL now use advanced technology, like INSiGHT Scans, to pinpoint exactly where nervous system stress is happening. This allows them to create personalized care plans that can lead to:
- Better focus and attention
- Improved emotional regulation
- Enhanced sleep quality
- Fewer behavioral challenges
- Easier transitions and adaptability
This approach addresses the foundation—the nervous system—which then allows all the other strategies (sleep, organization, and exercise) to work even more effectively.
The Hope You’ve Been Looking For
If you’re reading this and thinking, “This sounds exactly like my child,” please know that you are not alone, and there is hope. At Health From Within in Orland Park, IL, we’ve helped so many families find real solutions by addressing the nervous system first.
Your brilliant, sensitive, amazing child can thrive. The struggles you’re seeing aren’t permanent limitations—they’re signs that their nervous system needs support to function optimally.
Next steps:
- Start with the basics: Implement the sleep, exercise, and environmental strategies we’ve discussed. These can make an immediate difference while you explore other options.
- Consider a neurological evaluation: If you’ve tried many approaches without lasting success, it might be time to have your child’s nervous system assessed by a practitioner trained in neurologically-focused care.
- Trust your instincts: You know your child better than anyone. If something doesn’t feel right, keep searching for answers.
We want to support you every step of the way. If you’re local, please contact us today to schedule a consultation. If you’re not in our area, you can check out the PX Docs directory to find an office near you.