Access Keys:

 
 
St Patrick's Primary School, Ardboe, Dungannon

Primary Three Take Time to Explore Self-Regulation Zones

15th Sep 2025

The children have been learning how to use technology to identify their feelings. 

Teaching children about self-regulation zones is really important because it helps them manage their emotions, behavior, and interactions in a healthy and constructive way. Self-regulation is a core skill for emotional intelligence, and it’s essential for learning, social relationships, and overall well-being. Here are a few reasons why it matters:

1. Emotional Awareness and Expression

By learning about self-regulation zones, children can better understand their emotions. For example, when they’re in the "Red Zone"  😡 (angry, upset, out of control), they can recognise it and take steps to calm 😌 themselves down before reacting impulsively.

2. Problem-Solving Skills

Understanding that emotions exist in different zones (calm, anxious, angry, etc.) empowers children to develop strategies for shifting to a more appropriate zone. They can learn techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or taking a break to manage their feelings.

3. Building Empathy

When children can identify their own emotional states, they can better recognise how others feel too. This promotes empathy,  🥰 and helps them understand how their actions affect the people around them.

Starting with the Self-Regulation Activity helps the children 🧒🏻👦🏽 👧 🧑🏽👩🏻👧🏼 to settle and get ready for the day ahead.