Our genes are not the only determinants of our behaviors; there are many other outside factors. However, a growing number of parents are relying on genetic testing to make parenting easier.

Experts say that understanding genetics can help us set children up for success and also help contextualize their actions.

We’re not talking about ancestry here, but rather functional genomics testing, which is a branch of genetics that looks at the function and interaction of genes so that you can make more informed health decisions.

The DNA 360 Functional Genomics Report is the leading product in this field, offering 38 comprehensive health reports and precise insights into everything from an individual’s toxin clearance efficacy to vitamin absorption profiles, making parenting easier. And, since your DNA is static, the earlier the test is done, the sooner parents can improve lifelong outcomes.

Practical Examples: How Genetic Insights Can Help Parents

Adapting to Poor Toxin Clearance

The UGTB15 gene helps clear environmental toxins from the body. However, the functionally influential single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1902023 of this gene determines the speed at which the gene functions. The suboptimal version of the gene slows down detoxification, leaving your child at greater risk of inflammation or certain diseases, which, in addition to worse health outcomes, can spill over into mood and behavior issues.

But, knowing that your child is worse at detoxing, let’s you prioritize clean eating, all-natural products, and activities that promote sweating or other detox-supportive lifestyle practices.

Handling Negative Experiences and Building Resilience

Similarly, if genetic testing reveals variations such as poor 5-HTTLPR or ADRA2B function—both of which are associated with increased sensitivity to trauma— it might put your children’s reactions into context or provide you with extra urgency to help them build resilience.

For example, children with these variations may benefit from early emotional regulation training and supportive interventions to help them cope with both acute and long-term stress. 

Improving Grades and Academic Performance

There are also genetic answers to addressing one of the most significant sources of parenting stress: school. A variant of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) called Val66Met reduces how much BDNF gets released in your brain. This can influence the severity of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) because lower BDNF activity may impact brain areas involved in attention, emotional regulation, and memory.

However, if you knew your child had this variant, you could improve their attention by placing extra emphasis on increasing BDNF through regular exercise, omega-3-rich foods, and mindfulness.

From behavior to health and achievement, a functional genomics DNA test can improve outcomes while making the struggle of parenting easier. See more examples of how a DNA 360 Functional Genomics Report could help you raise your child by viewing a sample report.