{"id":479,"date":"2022-09-12T20:58:25","date_gmt":"2022-09-12T20:58:25","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/?p=479"},"modified":"2022-09-04T03:14:31","modified_gmt":"2022-09-04T03:14:31","slug":"18-zones-of-regulation-activities-to-help-kids-manage-their-emotions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/2022\/09\/12\/18-zones-of-regulation-activities-to-help-kids-manage-their-emotions\/","title":{"rendered":"18 Zones of Regulation Activities To Help Kids Manage Their Emotions"},"content":{"rendered":"

Learning to identify and regulate emotions is a big job, especially for little kids! However, this skill is essential for students to master in order to be successful in school (and in life), and luckily there are plenty of Zones of Regulation activities and games to help teach them.<\/p>\n

Zones of Regulation, a curriculum developed by Leah Kuypers, an OT and autism resource specialist, helps kids understand and learn to manage their emotions. Rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy, it is a framework that uses four colors\u2014blue, green, yellow, and red\u2014to help students identify their feelings and levels of alertness. The curriculum also provides strategies to support emotional regulation. Teaching students how to read their bodies\u2019 signals, detect triggers, read social context, and consider how their behaviors impact those around them leads to improved emotional control, sensory regulation, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills.<\/p>\n

To learn more about the Zones of Regulation, check out this unit by The Calming Corner, these resources from He\u2019s Extraordinary, and this slideshow from the Montana CEC.<\/p>\n

Here are 18 engaging Zones of Regulation activities to support the emotional growth of your students.<\/p>\n

1. Identify feelings by giving them a color<\/h2>\n

\"an<\/p>\n

Being able to recognize emotions is important. This color wheel will help kids start to identify their emotions by associating them with different colors. Once they have a grasp on what emotions feel like, students can begin to learn strategies to deal with them. And check out some Zones of Regulation activities that incorporate this emotion wheel.<\/p>\n

Source: He\u2019s Extraordinary<\/p>\n

2. Play a round of Monster Feelings Match-Up<\/h2>\n

\"monster<\/p>\n

Identifying and labeling feelings in oneself and others is a life skill that takes lots and lots of practice. One of kids\u2019 favorite Zones of Regulation activities is Monster Feelings Match-Up. This fun game teaches kids how to identify their feelings and manage their emotions and also fosters their conversation skills.<\/p>\n

Source: Pocket of Preschool<\/p>\n

3. Go on an emotions scavenger hunt<\/h2>\n

\"an<\/p>\n

A super-fun activity to help students identify feelings by using emojis and their power of observation. Recently updated for at-home learners as well as whole-class Zoom lessons, check out the full lesson plan. Best for grades K\u20136.<\/p>\n

Source: Mosswood Connections<\/p>\n

4. Make cootie catchers<\/h2>\n

\"Template<\/p>\n

You know kids are going to make cootie catchers anyway, so why not make a version that helps kids review and understand the Zones of Regulation? Each color-coded corner teaches students the feelings and coping skills that go along with each zone. Best for grades 3 and up.<\/p>\n

Source: Everybody Is a Genius<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

5. Play the Emotions Sorting Game<\/h2>\n

\"action<\/p>\n

Linking Zones of Regulation activities to fun experiences helps kids make connections. For example, this simple Emotions Sorting Game inspired by Disney-Pixar\u2019s Inside Out <\/em>helps kids learn and explore emotions. The game is a printable download available from the source below.<\/p>\n

Source: Mom Endeavors<\/p>\n

6. Make a calm-down sandwich<\/h2>\n

\"parts<\/p>\n

When students get angry or frustrated, they can use this coping strategy to help calm themselves down. Ask them to brainstorm six things that make them happy or feel calm inside. Then, have them write down their strategies on each piece of a calm-down sandwich.<\/p>\n

Source: Corner on Character<\/p>\n

7. Play Behavior Bingo<\/h2>\n

\"picture<\/p>\n

Distinguish between awesome actions (like showing respect and encouraging others) and bummer behavior (like using hurtful words or goofing off during work time) with this fun version of bingo. Five awesome actions in a row = BINGO! Great for small groups or whole class, grades 1\u20134.<\/p>\n

Source: Counselor Keri<\/p>\n

8. Practice impulse control with this version of Candy Land<\/h2>\n

\"one<\/p>\n

Games are the best way for kids to learn without even realizing they\u2019re learning! These custom-made cards go along with the standard version of Candy Land and help kids learn impulse-control skills. Best for grades K\u20133.<\/p>\n

Source: Ashley Hughes<\/p>\n

9. Make emotion regulation spinners<\/h2>\n

\"self<\/p>\n

This fun activity is a great addition to your calm-down corner. Students can pick strategies that work for them to get into the green zone and back on track. Best for grades K\u20135.<\/p>\n

Source: WholeHearted School Counseling<\/p>\n

10. Play a round of What Zone Would I Be In if \u2026?<\/h2>\n

\"template<\/p>\n

This free activity includes 30 cards with hypothetical situations, plus a page for sorting the cards into the zones. Read the cards and let students decide which zone THEY feel they would be in if this happened to them. You can ask questions about why they feel that way to encourage discussion.<\/p>\n

Source: He\u2019s Extraordinary<\/p>\n

\n
\n

11. Teach the Zones of Regulation with this fun song<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n

This catchy tune, set to the tune of \u201cShake, Rattle and Roll,\u201d teaches kids all about the different emotions in the Zones of Regulation and strategies to deal with them.<\/p>\n

Source: Singalong Songs<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

12. Create a sensory-break center in your classroom<\/h2>\n

\"classroom<\/p>\n

Provide students with a safe place to take a break when they need to regulate their emotions. Include resources for strategies that will help them manage. For a free copy of the poster shown and tons of great ideas for what to include in the space, follow the link below. Best for grades K\u20138.<\/p>\n

Source: The Dynamic Duo Adventures in Speech and Special Ed<\/p>\n

13. Stock your sensory-break center with strategy cards<\/h2>\n

\"zones<\/p>\n

These awesome break cards tap into a favorite set of characters: Pokemon! Each card helps students identify which \u201czone\u201d they are in and strategies for managing the emotions they are feeling. Available as a PowerPoint, Google Slideshow, and also a printable PDF. Includes four cards for each of the four zones.<\/p>\n

Source: Social CJ<\/p>\n

14. Empower students with these contingency maps<\/h2>\n

\"contingency<\/p>\n

Throughout the school day, students make behavior choices (for better or worse). Use these picture maps to help students understand the consequences of making different choices. They are very effective because they illustrate the results of both desired and undesired behaviors in a concrete way. Best for students in K\u20135.<\/p>\n

Source: The Autism Helper<\/p>\n

15. Role-play with task cards<\/h2>\n

\"self<\/p>\n

Role-play is a great activity for helping students rehearse acceptable behaviors. These task cards help students build emotional self-control by rehearsing responses to different scenarios that may trigger strong emotions. Best for grades 4\u20137.<\/p>\n

Source: Pathway 2 Success<\/p>\n

16. Build emotional toolboxes<\/h2>\n

\"poster<\/p>\n

What can students do to regulate their emotions when they veer away from the green zone? This toolbox of activities includes a handy flip-book that\u2019s chock-full of ideas. Each tab covers a different zone and gives students strategies to regain control. Best for students in K\u20133.<\/p>\n

Source: Valerie Steinhardt<\/p>\n

17. Encourage self-regulation with these desk nameplates<\/h2>\n

\"Zones<\/p>\n

Post these interactive nameplates on students\u2019 desks to help them self-regulate their emotions and feelings by paying attention to what zone they are in. Throughout the day, students self-monitor their emotional state by sliding a paper clip along the zone boxes on the left. If students are in the yellow, blue, or red zone, they can use one of the strategies in their toolbox to help them get back to green. Each student\u2019s toolbox will vary, depending on which strategies work best for them. Best for grades K\u20135.<\/p>\n

Source: Sunshine on a Cloudy Day<\/p>\n

18. Share resources with families<\/h2>\n

\"logo<\/p>\n

Meltdowns and emotional regulation impact the entire family. Share this blog with families to help them develop strategies with their kids at home. Full of helpful tips and valuable information, this is a great resource to help support calmer, happier kids.<\/p>\n

Source: A Heart for All Students<\/p>\n

Want more tips on behavior management? Be sure to sign up for our newsletters!<\/h3>\n

Also, check out 26 Simple Ways To Integrate Social-Emotional Learning Throughout the Day<\/h3>\n

\"18<\/p>\n

,\"\"<\/p>\n

\n
<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Learning to identify and regulate emotions is a big job, especially for little kids! However, this skill is essential for students to master in order to be successful in school (and in life), and luckily there are plenty of Zones of Regulation activities and games to help teach them.<\/p>\n

Zones of Regulation, a curriculum developed by Leah Kuypers, an OT and autism resource specialist, helps kids understand and learn to manage their emotions. Rooted in cognitive behavioral therapy, it is a framework that uses four colors\u2014blue, green, yellow, and red\u2014to help students identify their feelings and levels of alertness. The curriculum also provides strategies to support emotional regulation. Teaching students how to read their bodies\u2019 signals, detect triggers, read social context, and consider how their behaviors impact those around them leads to improved emotional control, sensory regulation, self-awareness, and problem-solving skills.<\/p>\n

To learn more about the Zones of Regulation, check out this unit by The Calming Corner, these resources from He\u2019s Extraordinary, and this slideshow from the Montana CEC.<\/p>\n

Here are 18 engaging Zones of Regulation activities to support the emotional growth of your students.<\/p>\n

1. Identify feelings by giving them a color<\/h2>\n

\"an<\/p>\n

Being able to recognize emotions is important. This color wheel will help kids start to identify their emotions by associating them with different colors. Once they have a grasp on what emotions feel like, students can begin to learn strategies to deal with them. And check out some Zones of Regulation activities that incorporate this emotion wheel.<\/p>\n

Source: He\u2019s Extraordinary<\/p>\n

2. Play a round of Monster Feelings Match-Up<\/h2>\n

\"monster<\/p>\n

Identifying and labeling feelings in oneself and others is a life skill that takes lots and lots of practice. One of kids\u2019 favorite Zones of Regulation activities is Monster Feelings Match-Up. This fun game teaches kids how to identify their feelings and manage their emotions and also fosters their conversation skills.<\/p>\n

Source: Pocket of Preschool<\/p>\n

3. Go on an emotions scavenger hunt<\/h2>\n

\"an<\/p>\n

A super-fun activity to help students identify feelings by using emojis and their power of observation. Recently updated for at-home learners as well as whole-class Zoom lessons, check out the full lesson plan. Best for grades K\u20136.<\/p>\n

Source: Mosswood Connections<\/p>\n

4. Make cootie catchers<\/h2>\n

\"Template<\/p>\n

You know kids are going to make cootie catchers anyway, so why not make a version that helps kids review and understand the Zones of Regulation? Each color-coded corner teaches students the feelings and coping skills that go along with each zone. Best for grades 3 and up.<\/p>\n

Source: Everybody Is a Genius<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n

5. Play the Emotions Sorting Game<\/h2>\n

\"action<\/p>\n

Linking Zones of Regulation activities to fun experiences helps kids make connections. For example, this simple Emotions Sorting Game inspired by Disney-Pixar\u2019s Inside Out <\/em>helps kids learn and explore emotions. The game is a printable download available from the source below.<\/p>\n

Source: Mom Endeavors<\/p>\n

6. Make a calm-down sandwich<\/h2>\n

\"parts<\/p>\n

When students get angry or frustrated, they can use this coping strategy to help calm themselves down. Ask them to brainstorm six things that make them happy or feel calm inside. Then, have them write down their strategies on each piece of a calm-down sandwich.<\/p>\n

Source: Corner on Character<\/p>\n

7. Play Behavior Bingo<\/h2>\n

\"picture<\/p>\n

Distinguish between awesome actions (like showing respect and encouraging others) and bummer behavior (like using hurtful words or goofing off during work time) with this fun version of bingo. Five awesome actions in a row = BINGO! Great for small groups or whole class, grades 1\u20134.<\/p>\n

Source: Counselor Keri<\/p>\n

8. Practice impulse control with this version of Candy Land<\/h2>\n

\"one<\/p>\n

Games are the best way for kids to learn without even realizing they\u2019re learning! These custom-made cards go along with the standard version of Candy Land and help kids learn impulse-control skills. Best for grades K\u20133.<\/p>\n

Source: Ashley Hughes<\/p>\n

9. Make emotion regulation spinners<\/h2>\n

\"self<\/p>\n

This fun activity is a great addition to your calm-down corner. Students can pick strategies that work for them to get into the green zone and back on track. Best for grades K\u20135.<\/p>\n

Source: WholeHearted School Counseling<\/p>\n

10. Play a round of What Zone Would I Be In if \u2026?<\/h2>\n

\"template<\/p>\n

This free activity includes 30 cards with hypothetical situations, plus a page for sorting the cards into the zones. Read the cards and let students decide which zone THEY feel they would be in if this happened to them. You can ask questions about why they feel that way to encourage discussion.<\/p>\n

Source: He\u2019s Extraordinary<\/p>\n

\n
\n

11. Teach the Zones of Regulation with this fun song<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n

This catchy tune, set to the tune of \u201cShake, Rattle and Roll,\u201d teaches kids all about the different emotions in the Zones of Regulation and strategies to deal with them.<\/p>\n

Source: Singalong Songs<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

12. Create a sensory-break center in your classroom<\/h2>\n

\"classroom<\/p>\n

Provide students with a safe place to take a break when they need to regulate their emotions. Include resources for strategies that will help them manage. For a free copy of the poster shown and tons of great ideas for what to include in the space, follow the link below. Best for grades K\u20138.<\/p>\n

Source: The Dynamic Duo Adventures in Speech and Special Ed<\/p>\n

13. Stock your sensory-break center with strategy cards<\/h2>\n

\"zones<\/p>\n

These awesome break cards tap into a favorite set of characters: Pokemon! Each card helps students identify which \u201czone\u201d they are in and strategies for managing the emotions they are feeling. Available as a PowerPoint, Google Slideshow, and also a printable PDF. Includes four cards for each of the four zones.<\/p>\n

Source: Social CJ<\/p>\n

14. Empower students with these contingency maps<\/h2>\n

\"contingency<\/p>\n

Throughout the school day, students make behavior choices (for better or worse). Use these picture maps to help students understand the consequences of making different choices. They are very effective because they illustrate the results of both desired and undesired behaviors in a concrete way. Best for students in K\u20135.<\/p>\n

Source: The Autism Helper<\/p>\n

15. Role-play with task cards<\/h2>\n

\"self<\/p>\n

Role-play is a great activity for helping students rehearse acceptable behaviors. These task cards help students build emotional self-control by rehearsing responses to different scenarios that may trigger strong emotions. Best for grades 4\u20137.<\/p>\n

Source: Pathway 2 Success<\/p>\n

16. Build emotional toolboxes<\/h2>\n

\"poster<\/p>\n

What can students do to regulate their emotions when they veer away from the green zone? This toolbox of activities includes a handy flip-book that\u2019s chock-full of ideas. Each tab covers a different zone and gives students strategies to regain control. Best for students in K\u20133.<\/p>\n

Source: Valerie Steinhardt<\/p>\n

17. Encourage self-regulation with these desk nameplates<\/h2>\n

\"Zones<\/p>\n

Post these interactive nameplates on students\u2019 desks to help them self-regulate their emotions and feelings by paying attention to what zone they are in. Throughout the day, students self-monitor their emotional state by sliding a paper clip along the zone boxes on the left. If students are in the yellow, blue, or red zone, they can use one of the strategies in their toolbox to help them get back to green. Each student\u2019s toolbox will vary, depending on which strategies work best for them. Best for grades K\u20135.<\/p>\n

Source: Sunshine on a Cloudy Day<\/p>\n

18. Share resources with families<\/h2>\n

\"logo<\/p>\n

Meltdowns and emotional regulation impact the entire family. Share this blog with families to help them develop strategies with their kids at home. Full of helpful tips and valuable information, this is a great resource to help support calmer, happier kids.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n

<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Learning to identify and regulate emotions is a big job, especially for little kids! However, this skill is essential for students to master in order to be successful in school (and in life), and luckily there are plenty of Zones of Regulation activities and games to help teach them. Zones of Regulation, a curriculum developed<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":480,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-479","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-classroom"],"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/479","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=479"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/479\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":729,"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/479\/revisions\/729"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/480"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=479"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=479"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/onlineduatease.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=479"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}