Zones of Regulation at Moriac
The Zones of Regulation is an approach used to teach self-regulation by categorising all the different ways we feel into four zones. At Moriac Primary School, we integrate this framework into our curriculum and school culture to support the emotional well-being of our students.
🔵 Blue Zone
Low alertness / Low energy state
- Feelings: Sad, tired, sick, bored, hurt, shy
- Example: A student who is lethargic or withdrawn might be in the Blue Zone.
- Goal: Regain energy or motivation (e.g., stretching, movement, connection).
🟢 Green Zone
Optimal state for learning and social interaction
- Feelings: Calm, focused, happy, content, ready to learn
- Example: A student listening attentively and participating is likely in the Green Zone.
- Goal: Maintain this state through healthy habits, awareness, and coping tools.
🟡 Yellow Zone
Heightened alertness / Elevated emotions
- Feelings: Excited, anxious, silly, nervous, frustrated, confused
- Example: A child might be overly excited before a fun event or anxious before a test.
- Goal: Use strategies to calm or refocus (e.g., deep breathing, asking for help, ready to learn strategies, calm corner, wellbeing hub).
🔴 Red Zone
Extreme emotions
- Feelings: Angry, terrified, elated, out of control
- Example: A student having a meltdown or yelling may be in the Red Zone.
- Goal: Help them regain control and return to a regulated state.
🧠 How It’s Used
- Visuals and posters are used in classrooms.
- Students check in with their zone each day
- Teachers and support staff teach tools and strategies to move between zones effectively.
🌟 Important Notes:
- No zone is “bad”—each zone is valid and serves a purpose.
- The goal is to build awareness and teach strategies to manage transitions between zones.
- It's most effective when practiced regularly, and integrated into daily routines.