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.

Self-Regulation Therapy Singapore | Emotional Regulation OT | Ray of Joy