Zones of Regulation

Zones of Regulation Parents information

We have introduced the Zones of Regulation.

There are 4 zones: Green, Blue, Yellow, Red

There is no ‘bad’ zone

All children will experience all of the zones at some point

Not all children will need lots of tools to support regulation

This the link to a song we have used in school to introduce the Zones to the children.

🟦🟩🟨🟥 The Zones of Regulation Song for Kids

What are the zones?

The Green Zone is used to describe a calm state of alertness. A person may be described as happy, focused, content, or ready to learn when in the Green Zone. This is the zone where optimal learning occurs.

The Yellow Zone is also used to describe a heightened state of alertness and elevated emotions; however, one has some control when they are in the Yellow Zone. A person may be experiencing stress, frustration, anxiety, excitement, silliness, the wiggles, or nervousness when in the Yellow Zone.

How might my child behave when they are in the Yellow Zone?

•Avoiding situations

•Avoiding social settings

•Biting nails

•Sleeping issues

•Tearful

•Struggling to concentrate

•Hyper-vigilant

The Blue Zone is used to describe low states of alertness and down feelings, such as when one feels sad, tired, sick, or bored.

How might my child behave when they are in the Blue Zone?

•absence of feelings

•irritability

•lack of pleasure

•lack of motivation

•tearful

•withdrawn

•difficulty in concentrating

The Red Zone is used to describe extremely heightened states of alertness and intense emotions. A person may be elated or experiencing anger, rage, explosive behaviour, devastation, or terror when in the Red Zone.

How might my child behave when they are in the Red Zone?

•Excessive outbursts

•Fighting

•Shouting

•Irritability

•Acting dangerously

•Lack of control

•Resentful

How can I help my child?

When they are in the Yellow Zone - breathing techniques, movement, resistance bands, stress balls and a calm down sequence can all help.

When they are in the Blue Zone - soft sensory items to touch and cuddle such as cuddly teddys, fidget tools, theraputty, talking about their emotions, colouring and drawing can all support children in the Blue Zone.

When they are in the Red Zone - weighted blankets and toys, grounding techniques, sensory tools and deep pressure can all help.