Zones of Regulation

What are The Zones of Regulation?

The Zones of Regulation is designed to help students consciously regulate their actions, which in turn leads to increased control and problem-solving abilities. We use these four colors to help students identify how they are feeling in the moment:

Key Concepts 

• There are no "bad" zones. Everyone experiences all of the zones at different times. The goal isn't to be in the Green Zone 100% of the time, but to recognise which zone we are in and manage our emotions appropriately. 

• A "Toolbox" for every student. This supports teaching students "tools" (calming techniques, sensory supports, or thinking strategies) to help them move between zones and return to a calmer state when needed.

• Regulation is a skill that is taught, not just a behavior that is expected. Just like maths or reading, it takes practice, patience, and repetition.

Why Use The Zones?

Using a consistent framework across the school and at home provides several benefits:

• Common Language: Teachers, parents, and children all use the same terms (e.g., "I'm starting to move into the Yellow Zone - I might need some help").

• Use of Colours: By categorising feelings by color, it removes the "good vs. bad" judgment from emotions and ensures that different types of emotions are identified. 

• Self-Awareness: It teaches students to notice the physical or mental signals their bodies give them.

How Parents Can Help at Home

To support your child's emotional growth, you can:

1. Model your own zones: "I’m in the Blue Zone because I didn't sleep well; I think I’ll take a walk to wake up."

2. Avoid "Why?": When a child is in the Red Zone, asking "Why are you doing this?" is often unproductive. Instead, identify the zone: "I can see you are in the Red Zone. Let’s try a tool together."

3. Celebrate Tool Use: Praise your child when they recognise which zone they are in, such as "Yellow" and choose a tool (like deep breathing) to stay in control.