Understanding the Zones of Regulation: A Guide for our Families
The Zones of Regulation is a framework used to help children learn how to recognise and manage their emotions. It's a tool that the school uses that encourages self-regulation and helps children understand how to cope with different feelings in healthy ways. The Zones are divided into four coloured categories, each representing a different emotional state.
The Four Zones:
-
Blue Zone – Feeling Sad, Tired, or Sick
When we are in the Blue Zone, we feel down, tired, or sometimes sick. It can be when we're bored or when something isn’t quite right. Strategies to help children in the Blue Zone might include taking deep breaths, resting, or doing something calming like listening to music. -
Green Zone – Feeling Happy, Calm, and Focused
The Green Zone is where we want to be most of the time. It’s when we feel happy, calm, focused, and ready to learn. In this zone, we are in control of our actions and can think clearly. Strategies to stay in the Green Zone include taking deep breaths, staying organised, and using positive self-talk. -
Yellow Zone – Feeling Frustrated, Anxious, or Excited
The Yellow Zone is a heightened state where we may feel nervous, frustrated, or even overly excited. We are not in control, but we are still able to manage our feelings. Strategies to help in the Yellow Zone include using calming techniques like breathing or taking a break, and talking about our feelings to understand them better. -
Red Zone – Feeling Angry, Out of Control, or Frustrated
The Red Zone is when we feel out of control, angry, or overwhelmed. Our bodies and emotions are in a heightened state, and we may find it hard to think clearly. When in the Red Zone, it’s important to take a step back and use strategies like deep breathing, counting to ten, or asking for help.
How Can Parents/Carers Help?
-
Talk About Feelings: Encourage children to recognise and talk about what zone they are in. By understanding their emotions, children can start to manage them more effectively.
-
Use Visual Supports: Many children benefit from visual reminders, such as a chart or poster of the zones. This can help them quickly identify their feelings and decide what to do next.
-
Practice Coping Skills: Teach your child strategies for moving between zones. For example, deep breathing, taking breaks, or finding a quiet space can help bring a child from the Red Zone to the Green Zone.
-
Reinforce Positive Behaviour: Praise your child when they use effective coping strategies or demonstrate self-regulation.
For more tips and resources, please feel free to come and ask the staff in school!