This term we have introduced The Zones of Regulation to the students. This has been an exceptionally useful tool for our children. The Zones of Regulation is a framework designed to foster self -regulation and emotional control. It was developed by Leah Kuypers in 2011 (OT/Autism specialist in America). 

How does it work? It groups emotions into 4 Zones; Blue, Green, Yellow and Red and teaches us to recognise how we are feeling and what we can do in each zone to help deal with our emotions in an acceptable way. There are no bad zones but operating in the green zone is preferable. People may move through the zones during the course of their day. 

Why use The Zones of Regulation? If we teach our children “good” coping and self-regulation skills, they can help themselves when they become anxious, sad or stressed. Teaching our children about using helpful strategies when they are in a calm state will give them the tools to deal with overwhelming emotions when they occur. We all benefit by being able to recognise our emotions, what triggers certain emotions in us and what we can do to regulate our emotions.

If you would like more information regarding The Zones of Regulation please go to https://www.zonesofregulation.com/index.html