10 tips to help children build self-regulation skills

Help children learn to identify and label their emotions.🗨️ "I see you're feeling frustrated right now."

Practice simple techniques like “smell the flower, blow out the candle.”🕊️ Helps calm the nervous system in the moment.

Create a kit with fidgets, coloring pages, stress balls, or noise-canceling headphones.🧺 Promotes healthy coping strategies.

Play turn-taking or “Simon Says” to build impulse control.🎲 Great for younger kids!

Consistent routines give kids a sense of safety and control.🛏️ Especially important for bedtime and transitions.

Kids mirror adult behavior. Narrate your coping:🗣️ "I'm taking a breath because I'm feeling overwhelmed."

Before correcting, connect.👂 "I get why you're upset. That was really hard."

Timers, charts, and emotion cards help children process what’s expected.⏳ Especially helpful for neurodiverse kids.

Short practices like body scans or mindful listening build emotional awareness.🌳 Just 1-2 minutes a day can make a difference.

Encourage progress:👏 "You calmed down so quickly today—great job using your breathing!"

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