What is the Zones of Regulation?
The Zones of Regulation (ZOR) is a simple approach to developing self-regulation skills in children. We use the ZOR across the school, from Reception up to Year 6. Children are supported in identifying and naming their emotions and then introduced to a range of 'tools' to help manage these emotions. To aim is to support children in developing their emotional literacy skills so that they can use their 'toolbox' to regulate their emotions independently.
Why teach self-regulation?
Regulation is something everyone continually works on whether we are aware of it or not. We all encounter trying circumstances that can test our limits. If we can recognize when we are becoming less regulated, we are able to do something about it to manage our feelings and get ourselves to a healthy place. This comes more naturally for some, but for others it is a skill that needs more attention and practice. This is the goal of The Zones of Regulation.
Sorting our emotions into 4 zones
Feelings are complicated. They come in different sizes, intensities, and levels of energy that are unique within our brains and bodies. To make them easier to talk about, think about, and regulate, The Zones of Regulation organises our feelings, states of alertness, and energy levels into four coloured Zones – Blue, Green, Yellow, and Red. The simple, common language and visual structure of The Zones of Regulation helps make the complex skill of regulation more concrete for learners and those who support them. We learn to regulate our Zones to meet our goals and task demands, as well as support our overall well-being.
The four zones
A core belief of The Zones of Regulation is that all the zones are okay. We routinely experience several of the Zones across a day. It’s critically important that we don’t convey the message that the Green Zone is the only acceptable Zone to be in. Acknowledge, accept, and support these feelings, never make anyone feel like the Green Zone is the norm.