Self-regulation is something everyone continually works on, whether we are aware of it or not. We all encounter trying circumstances that test our limits from time to time. If we are able to recognize when we are becoming less regulated, we are able to do something about it to feel better and get ourselves to a better place. This comes natural for some, but for others it is a skill that needs to be taught and practiced. This is the goal of The Zones of Regulation.
What are The Zones of Regulation?
The Zones curriculum provides strategies to teach students to become more aware of, and independent in controlling their emotions and impulses, managing their sensory needs, and improving their ability to problem solve conflicts.
The curriculum is designed to help move students toward independent regulation and incorporates social thinking concepts and numerous visuals to teach students to identify their feelings and level of alertness. The Zones will also help students to understand how their behaviour impacts those around them and learn what tools they can use to manage their feelings and states.
The Four Zones: Our Feelings & States Determine Our Zone
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.
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.
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 Blue Zone is used to describe low states of alertness and down feelings, such as when one feels sad, tired, sick, or bored.
The Zones can be compared to traffic signs. When given a green light or are in the Green Zone, one is “good to go.” A yellow sign means to be aware or take caution, which applies to the Yellow Zone. A red light or stop sign means stop, and when one is in the Red Zone, this is often the case. The Blue Zone can be compared to the rest area signs where one goes to rest or re-energize.