Self-Regulation Skills
Building the foundation for emotional and behavioral control in everyday situations. Self-regulation is the ability to manage emotions, behaviors, and body movements when faced with challenging situations - a crucial skill affecting success in school, relationships, and daily activities. Through occupational therapy, we help children develop these essential skills using evidence-based strategies, sensory approaches, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. From managing big feelings and controlling impulses to maintaining focus and navigating social situations, our personalized programs support children in developing the self-control they need to thrive.
Self-Regulation Skills
Building the foundation for emotional and behavioral control in everyday situations. Self-regulation is the ability to manage emotions, behaviors, and body movements when faced with challenging situations - a crucial skill affecting success in school, relationships, and daily activities. Through occupational therapy, we help children develop these essential skills using evidence-based strategies, sensory approaches, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. From managing big feelings and controlling impulses to maintaining focus and navigating social situations, our personalized programs support children in developing the self-control they need to thrive.
Areas of Self-Regulation
We address all aspects of self-regulation for comprehensive development
Emotional Regulation
Managing big feelings and emotional responses
- Identifying emotions
- Coping strategies
- Calming techniques
- Emotional expression
Cognitive Regulation
Controlling thoughts and attention
- Focus & concentration
- Task persistence
- Mental flexibility
- Problem-solving
Behavioral Regulation
Managing actions and impulses
- Impulse control
- Following routines
- Waiting & turn-taking
- Safety awareness
Sensory Regulation
Modulating responses to sensory input
- Alertness levels
- Sensory modulation
- Body awareness
- Energy management
Strategies We Teach
Practical tools and techniques for everyday regulation
Calming Strategies
- Deep breathing exercises
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Mindfulness activities
- Heavy work activities
- Quiet corners and breaks
Alerting Strategies
- Movement breaks
- Sensory input activities
- Interactive games
- Music and rhythm
- Physical challenges
Organizing Strategies
- Visual schedules
- Timer use
- Task breaking
- Routine establishment
- Environmental structure
Age-Appropriate Programs
Tailored approaches for different developmental stages
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
Foundation skills through play
- Basic emotion identification
- Simple coping tools
- Routine following
- Sensory awareness
School-Age (6-12 years)
Academic and social regulation
- Complex emotion management
- Peer interaction skills
- Classroom behaviors
- Self-advocacy
Adolescents (13+ years)
Independence and self-management
- Stress management
- Executive functioning
- Social navigation
- Future planning
The Zones of Regulation®
We incorporate evidence-based programs like The Zones of Regulation® to help children understand and manage their emotional states.
Blue Zone
Low energy: sad, tired, sick, or bored
Green Zone
Calm and ready: happy, focused, and ready to learn
Yellow Zone
Heightened state: excited, anxious, or frustrated
Red Zone
Intense emotions: angry, terrified, or out of control
Help Your Child Master Self-Regulation
Strong self-regulation skills are the foundation for success in school, relationships, and life. Let us help your child develop these essential abilities.
Let's connect!
We'd love to have a free 15-minute chat with you to discuss any queries you may have. Think of it as a friendly strategy session to help you explore your child's communication development.
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