Emotion Regulation Strategies
To develop a range of strategies for managing strong emotions.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Personal, Social & Emotional
- Learning area: Personal, Social and Emotional Development
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Uses calming strategies
- Identifies when feeling overwhelmed
- Seeks help when needed
- Shows increasing self-regulation
Materials
- Calm down corner
- Breathing exercise visuals
- Emotion thermometer
- Sensory calm resources
Instructions
TEACHING STRATEGIES WHEN CALM: Don't try to teach calming strategies during a meltdown—children can't learn when dysregulated. Teach strategies during calm moments through games, books, and practice.
TEACHING DEEP BREATHING: 'When we have big feelings, breathing helps. Breathe in slowly through your nose—smell the flowers! Breathe out through your mouth—blow out the candles!' Make breathing visual with pinwheels or bubbles.
USING PHYSICAL STRATEGIES: Some children need to move: 'When you feel angry, you could squeeze this stress ball, do 10 star jumps, or push against the wall really hard.' Physical release helps some children regulate.
CREATING CALM SPACES: Make a cosy, inviting calm corner (not a punishment area). Include cushions, soft lighting, calming bottles, family photos, sensory items. Teach children to use it: 'If you need to feel calm, the cosy corner can help.'
TEACHING RECOGNITION: Help children notice body signals: 'When I feel angry, my face goes hot and my hands go tight. What does YOUR body feel like when you're angry?' Recognising early signs helps children catch themselves before meltdown.
USING EMOTION THERMOMETERS: Visual scales help children identify intensity: 'Where are you on the thermometer? A bit worried or VERY worried?' This builds self-awareness and communication about feelings.
CO-REGULATING FIRST: When children are dysregulated, co-regulate before expecting self-regulation. Stay calm yourself, offer comfort, reduce stimulation. Say 'I'm here. Let's calm down together. Breathe with me.'
PRACTISING REGULARLY: Practice calming strategies during calm times—not just when upset. 'Let's all do our calm breathing before story time.' Regular practice makes strategies automatic.