Wellbeing @ KPS

This term KPS will begin to incorporate the Zones of Regulation within our spaces. This approach is designed to support children recognise and manage their emotions in a structured well. Supporting our students with self regulation strategies, KPS recognises that these skills are vital for everyone to lead successful lives. Mentor teachers will begin this term by embedding the zones into their everyday language and support children to identify ways to manage the emotions they may also be feeling. Below is a guide written by Stephanie, our school based psychologist, to further explain the zones. 

Understanding the Zones of Regulation: A Guide for Parents

What is self-regulation?

Self-regulation can go by many names, such as self-control, self management, and impulse control. It is defined as the best state of alertness of both the body and emotions for the specific situation. For example, when a student plays on the playground or in a competitive game, it is beneficial to have a higher state of alertness. However, that same state would not be appropriate in the library.

What are the Zones of Regulation?

The Zones of Regulation categorise emotions and states of alertness into four distinct zones, each represented by a different colour:

• Blue Zone (Low Energy): This zone represents feelings like sadness, tiredness, or boredom. Children in this zone may feel lethargic or withdrawn.
• Green Zone (Good to Go): The green zone signifies a calm and focused state. Children in this zone are typically happy, focused, or ready to learn.
• Yellow Zone (Caution): This zone represents a heightened state of alertness and elevated emotions such as excitement, frustration, or anxiety. Children may find it challenging to concentrate or control impulses when in the yellow zone.
• Red Zone (Stop, I Need Help): The red zone indicates an intense state of heightened emotions such as anger, rage, or panic. Children in the red zone may struggle to make good decisions or control their actions.

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How Can Parents Support Their Children?

• Identify and Label Emotions: Encourage your child to recognize which zone they are in throughout the day. Use examples from their own experiences to help them understand each zone.
• Teach Coping Strategies: Help your child develop a toolbox of strategies to manage their emotions depending on the zone they are in. This could include deep breathing exercises, using a grounding strategy,  taking a break, or talking to a trusted adult.
• Model Self-Regulation: Children learn a lot by observing their parents. Show them how you manage your own emotions and problem-solve calmly when faced with challenges.
• Practice Patience and Understanding: Learning to regulate emotions takes time and practice. Be patient with your child as they navigate their feelings and encourage their efforts.