Dana Ainsworth: Nervous System Regulation, Behavior as Communication & Trauma Informed Practice

In Season 11 Episode 12, Hayley Spira‑Bauer speaks with Dana Ainsworth, founder of Tomorrow House, about reframing student behavior through the lens of nervous system regulation rather than discipline or motivation. Drawing from her own lived experience, teaching background, and research in trauma, polyvagal theory, and education policy, Dana explains how adverse childhood experiences, outdated school structures, and rapid technological change contribute to widespread student dysregulation. The episode highlights practical, classroom‑ready strategies—like breathwork and behavior‑as‑communication—to support both educators and students, while calling for deeper alignment between research, policy, and everyday school practice.