When I was teaching, fostering emotional intelligence and providing tools for kids to navigate their feelings was one of my greatest joys. Even though I’ve stepped away from teaching to care for my babies and explore flexible work, I still find myself using my teaching experience A TON!

As a human with BIG FEELINGS myself, I firmly believe that equipping our children with the vocabulary, strategies, and safe spaces to explore and express their emotions is crucial for their well-being, and helps them as they mature into adulthood.

So, I’ve whipped up this resource that I’m pretty stoked about. But before we dive in, let’s talk prework. Picture this: me, a grown-up, using the Zones of Regulation chart to remind myself what to do when my big feelings come knocking. Yep, even us adults need a little nudge sometimes!

Spend some time talking about feelings using tools like the Zones of Regulation chart. Encourage them to identify different emotions and discuss strategies for managing them. You can make it fun by acting out scenarios and strategies. “Show me what it looks like to be FRUSTRATED/CALM/LONELY” ,” Lets pretend to be REALLY MAD and then pick what strategy we could use to calm down.” Swap personal experiences of when you’ve had strong feelings and how you navigated them. Here are some examples of questions you could ask: “Can you think of a time when you felt really annoyed? What did that feel like in your body? What happened after you had that big feeling?” Remind your child that all feelings are ok, and that it’s normal to feel anger, sadness, frustration etc.

Understanding and practicing emotional regulation has numerous benefits for children. It helps them build resilience, improve their relationships, and enhances their overall mental health.

Research studies have shown that children who develop strong emotional regulation skills exhibit:

  • Improved Academic Performance: A study published in the journal Developmental Psychology found that children with better emotional regulation skills tend to have higher academic achievement compared to their peers. By effectively managing their emotions, children can concentrate better on their studies and engage more productively in learning activities.
  • Enhanced Social Skills: Research published in Child Development suggests that children who can regulate their emotions are more likely to form positive relationships with peers and adults. They demonstrate better empathy, communication, and conflict resolution skills, which are crucial for navigating social interactions effectively.
  • Reduced Behavioral Problems: Studies have indicated that children who struggle with emotional regulation are more prone to behavioral issues such as aggression, defiance, and impulsivity. By learning to identify and manage their emotions, children can reduce disruptive behaviors and cultivate a more positive classroom and home environment.

Creating a safe space or a calm corner in your home can be incredibly helpful in supporting your child’s emotional regulation. Consider including items such as soft pillows for comfort, fidget toys for tactile stimulation, calming sensory bottles, mindfulness books, and art supplies for expressive activities.

To aid you further, here are a few recommended books that delve into the realm of feelings: ( no affiliate links)
All About Feelings

what are feelings lift the flap

questions and answers about feelings

the feelings book

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to customize the space based on your child’s preferences and needs.

Anyway, I hope you find this resource as game-changing as I do. And if you need a laugh or a shoulder to lean on in your emotional regulation journey, you know where to find me!

HERE is the link to the editable version of the chart.

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