Self Regulation

Self regulation (0r emotional self regulation) is the ability to respond to the ongoing demands of experience with the range of emotions in a manner that is socially tolerable and sufficiently flexible to permit spontaneous reactions as well as the ability to delay spontaneous reactions as needed.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Self regulation (0r emotional self regulation) is the ability to respond to the ongoing demands of experience with the range of emotions in a manner that is socially tolerable and sufficiently flexible to permit spontaneous reactions as well as the ability to delay spontaneous reactions as needed. It can also be defined as extrinsic and intrinsic processes responsible for monitoring, evaluating, and modifying emotional reactions. Emotional self-regulation belongs to the broader set of emotion-regulation processes, which includes both the regulation of one’s own feelings and the regulation of other people’s feelings.

KEY POINTS

  • Self-regulation allows kids to manage their emotions, behavior and body movement when faced with tough situations.
  • Self-regulation isn’t the same thing as self-control.
  • Kids with ADHD and sensory processing issues often struggle with self-regulation.

RESOURCES

SHARED WISDOM

  • Suggestions for Self-Regulation Programs for grades K-12 (Counselor Talk, February 2019)

    • PAX — has a training for teachers and teaches students how to self-regulate.
    • The Zones of Regulation curriculum —  with 4th and 5th graders — should be available through Amazon or Social Thinking
    • The new DOE SEL toolkits — LOTS of lessons…100 lessons for educational neuroscience, and dozens of others.
    • Conscious Discipline — as philosophy for self regulation building wide (elementary).  It took 3 years to implement and began with a book study for all staff.  This has brought positive changes in the building.
    • Feeling Buddies — In addition, counselor provides K-2 lessons on self regulation and using the safe place.
    • Go Strengths online program — There is a weekly group of targeted students for grades k-6.
    • Morning meetings are being implemented in some elementary schools — teachers indicate that they are making a big difference
    • High school — self-regulation is addressed on a case by case basis
    • Small mindfulness based groups — taught by a local counseling agency to some students

CONTENT FEEDBACK

If you have suggestions, feedback, or resources, please email counselor1stop@inspiresuccess.org and let us know.