Self Regulation

So what is self-regulation?

Self regulation is the ability to manage your own energy states, emotions, behaviours and attention, in ways that are socially acceptable. It enables us to monitor and control our own behaviour and adjust the way in which we behave according to where we are.

Self-regulation starts as babies 

Learning about self-regulation starts right at the beginning as babies. We soothe babies in a calming way to help them to reduce their negative feelings and upset, to make them feel safe and comfortable again. 

Over time with our understanding, help and support children will gain more understanding and control so that they can soothe themselves when they are upset, or calm down when they are over excited.

How can you support the development of self-regulation?

•Provide structure and predictability
•Create developmentally appropriate environments
•Define age appropriate limits
•Show empathy and caring
•Be a good role model.

Understanding the rules

Children need to understand that the rules at home might be different to the rules in Pre-School. This helps children to understand that they have to behave differently, in different ways, in different places.  

For example, children playing outside at your setting may move around quickly, climb and be excited. However, when they are indoors they need to understand that there may be different rules, such as using their quiet voices and walking.

The self-regulation journey 

• As they become more mobile, babies and toddlers will move away from their familiar adults to explore their environment, but they will keep returning for a quick cuddle or sit on your lap for reassurance
• Two-year-olds easily become frustrated and may not yet have enough understanding of their emotions or communication to verbalise their feelings. They need our understanding and to feel secure. It is important to stick to the rules and be consistent.
• As children get older their emotional behaviour and independence skills mature, this will help with their self-regulation behaviours. These skills will also help them to build friendships, interact and to share ideas and experiences with other children and adults. 

(Source NDNA) 

Helping your child Self soothe is a fantastic way to support their ability to self regulate as they develop.  Creative education have free training, the Simple Self-Soothe strategies are great for parents and children. It’s 22 minutes, but broken into 7 sections with 5 strategies to self-soothe. The final one is a body scan, which is a 7 minute guided body scan which is great.

Click here to find out more:  Simple Self-Soothe Strategies