Wellbeing

Emotional Regulation

Emotional regulation in children refers to their ability to manage and respond to their emotional experiences in a healthy and flexible manner. Effective emotional regulation is crucial for social interactions, academic success, and overall positive mental health, as it helps children navigate challenges, resolve conflicts, and build resilience.

Children learn best through observation. Showing them what to do rather than verbally directing is sure to generate better results. For example, when a child grows up with parents who treat each other with respect and care and resolve their conflicts with empathy and compassion, they will learn to be emotionally balanced and resilient themselves.

There are many ways we can help our children develop the skills to regulate their emotions. Some examples of this are:

Model Emotional Regulation: Demonstrate healthy ways to manage emotions by expressing your own feelings appropriately and showing coping strategies.

Teach Emotion Recognition: Help children identify and label their emotions using feelings charts or books. Healthy discussions around awareness and naming our feelings is the first step in regulation.

Practice Deep Breathing: Introduce simple breathing exercises, like inhaling for four counts, holding for four, and exhaling for four. This can calm the nervous system.

Create a Calm Down Space: Designate a quiet area with calming items (e.g., soft toys, books, art supplies) where children can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed. This is an option they can chose, rather than somewhere they are sent as a punishment.

Use Visual Aids: Utilise tools like emotion wheels or mood meters to help children visualize and communicate their feelings.

Encourage Problem-Solving: Guide children through identifying problems and brainstorming solutions, helping them feel more in control of their emotions and situations.

Establish Routines: Consistent daily routines provide a sense of security and predictability, which can reduce anxiety and help with emotional stability.

Promote Physical Activity: Encourage regular physical activities, such as playing outside or sports, to help children release pent-up energy and improve mood.

Teach Positive Self-Talk: Help children develop affirmations or positive statements they can use to combat negative thoughts during emotional distress.

Use Storytelling: Share stories that involve characters experiencing and managing emotions. Discuss these scenarios to help children understand various emotional responses.

Encourage Mindfulness Practices: Introduce simple mindfulness exercises, such as focusing on the present moment, which can help children become more aware of their emotions without judgment.

By integrating these strategies into daily life, parents and educators can support children in developing healthier emotional regulation skills, fostering resilience and better emotional wellbeing.

As always, please feel free to reach out for more information about anything related to Friendology, student wellbeing or individual concerns you may have. I am contactable via compass, through the office or via email – louise.jarvis@education.vic.gov.au

Have a lovely weekend,

Louise Jarvis

Wellbeing Specialist Teacher