13/12/2024
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EMOTION DYSregulation : How to help children self-soothe
One of our second graders had a major MELTDOWN after losing a game in class. This is pretty normal for young kids—they’re still learning how to deal with the concept of losing. But this time, it was tough. The student just couldn’t calm down.
The teacher, who knows this child well, tried the usual comforting hugs, but they weren't working. The outburst got so intense that the student started scratching their body. The student was given pieces of paper to redirect the anger to paper-tearing but the meltdown continued to escalate that another teacher had to step in and move the child to another room.
In that room, there happened to be a ribbon that needed tying. The student started to “help” tie knots. The child’s breathing steadied, and the focus on the knots brought calmness. Soon enough, the child was ready to return to class. This kind of hands-on activity helps this student regulate emotions. It may be a different activity for every child.
We understand this approach isn’t always easy in busy classrooms. But it’s worth trying instead of constantly getting mad at them. Learn strategies that help kids self-regulate. HINDI po nakakatulong kung palagi lang silang pagagalitan. You can’t reason with a DYSREGULATED child. CONNECT and REDIRECT first, then work through the behavior. If we can help them self-soothe, not only will they learn how to regulate their emotions, the classroom will be more peaceful as well.
Here are other ways you can help regulate a young student's outbursts in the classroom:
✅ Fidget with Erasers or Rubber Bands
Provide them with an eraser to squish or a rubber band to stretch. These small items can help release nervous energy.
✅ Organizing Classroom Supplies
Ask them to sort crayons, markers, or pencils by color or size. This task encourages focus and mindfulness.
✅ Stacking Books or Manipulatives
Let them stack books or blocks. The repetitive motion can have a calming effect.
✅ Drawing or Coloring
Keep scrap paper or coloring pages handy for students who need a creative outlet to process emotions.
✅ Simple Cleanup Tasks
Ask them to tidy up a corner of the classroom, wipe a desk, or straighten chairs. Movement and responsibility can help them refocus. Most students love helping out teacher :)
And here are ways parents can help regulate at home while teaching them life skills (no need to buy anything for this!)
❤️ Folding Towels or Clothes
The repetitive motion of folding can be calming and provides a sense of accomplishment.
❤️ Sorting Objects by Color or Size
Use items like buttons, socks, or even toys. Sorting helps kids focus and redirect their emotions.
❤️ Matching Socks
This combines focus and movement, creating a mindful moment while helping with chores.
❤️ Washing Dishes by Hand
The warm water and bubbles can be soothing while the repetitive action helps calm nerves.
❤️ Sweeping or Dusting
Physical movement like sweeping can release pent-up energy while offering structure.
