Self-Regulation Activities for Kids

Written by Michele Kamerman, LPC, RPT

            During these tough times, it can be hard for anyone to self-regulate, but especially children.  You may have a child who has a ton of energy, so it’s been difficult for your child to burn it all off with staying at home. You may have a child who has been struggling to focus on school work with having to learn online.  You may also have a child who struggles with regulating their feelings. How is a child supposed to learn how to regulate? 

What is self-regulation? 

Day2Day Parenting defines self-regulation in children as the ability to focus his attention, control his emotions and manage his thinking, behavior and feelings.  A child that is lacking these skills may be distracted easily, have issues controlling one’s body when has a burst of energy, may struggle with keeping body to self, and may act impulsive verbally and physically.

What can parents do?

Children thrive on consistency and routine to promote predictability which in turn supports the child to regulate.  Also, it is helpful to eliminate items that could be overstimulating for your child, such as electronics or loud sounds.  Your child may find that a quiet dim lit area is best for calming down.  If you find that your child is struggling with emotional regulation, it is helpful to find an area they can call their “cool down” spot and include items that offer soothing benefits. Some “cool down” ideas can include:

Yoga

Grounding techniques such as focusing on what they are experiencing with their five senses

Art activities

Blowing bubbles

Stretching

Breathing exercises such as pretending to blow bubbles

Journaling

Squeeze something

If you notice your child is struggling with keeping their bodies to themselves and have a lot of energy, it is also helpful to find ways for your child to burn off their energy whether they run around the yard or play games.  Here is a list of some helpful and active games to play with your child to support their self-regulation:

Simon Says

Red Light Green Light

Freeze Dance

Charades

Tag

Follow the Leader

Hide and Seek

Relays

Twister

All of these games involve the practice of focus, following direction, movement of their bodies, and the practice of being a good sport- how to handle winning or losing.  The more that these “cool down” techniques or energy-burning activities are implemented, your child will eventually be cued in as to what he/she’s body is needing. It will take practice, but with the help from you coaching them to become more aware, the more successful your child will be in self-regulating.

 https://day2dayparenting.com/help-child-learn-self-regulation/

 

If your child is struggling with self regulation, child counseling can help. Contact us today to learn more.

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