What is one of the most important life skills impacting health, relationships, and achievement? Self-regulation.
Self-regulation can be broadly defined as the ability to manage and control oneself. This relates to one’s emotions (moods and feelings) as well as one’s behaviors (actions). It is recognizing when you are experiencing stress or over excitement. It is how you use tools and strategies to adjust your moods and work through feelings. It is exhibiting appropriate behaviors in spite of what you are feeling.
As educators and/or parents, we teach self-regulation to children constantly. It’s what we are doing when we help them complete a task they don’t feel like doing but should (eg. sharing and cleaning up after themselves). It’s also what we are doing when we help children work through emotions such as sadness or frustration.
It’s important to note that research is increasingly showing the connection between a child’s self-regulation and that of their adult caretakers. Meaning, we influence a child’s self-regulation not just through our teaching, but also through our modeling and practice of self-regulation skills. At any moment, how we manage our own emotions and behaviors – that show up in the words and tone we use or through the thoughtful or impulsive decisions we make – can determine how a child responds. It is a cyclical process. So, how can we as the more social-emotionally skilled person in an interaction with a child manage our own emotions and behaviors and support him/her to a favorable outcome? Breathe.
One of my favorite TEDTalks is Breathing happiness by Emma Seppälä. In this Talk, Seppälä uses examples of work with military in combat and veterans experiencing PTSD to explain how we can manage our breathing to change our mood and gain “the presence of mind” to negotiate the most difficult and stressful situations. Seppälä describes the strategy of “square breathing” (inhaling for a count of four, holding for a count of four, exhaling for a count of four, holding for a count of four and repeating) as a way to lower the heart rate and gain composure. I have found this strategy to be a helpful tool to use with students and for myself. Note: I alter the language when working with young students to “Suck in like you are drinking a juice box; hold it. Now, blow out like birthday candles.”
Self-regulation is a skill we continue to develop throughout adulthood. Square breathing is hopefully a helpful tool you can add to your belt. I wish you a wonderful school year and happy breathing!
Learner, Thinker, Writer: Rhonda Mitchell serves Trinity School as the Early Elementary Division Head
I needed this today. Whew! Loved the explanation about sucking in through a juice box straw and blowing out birthday candles for my kindergartner and second grader! 🙂
Discover a wide range of stylish men shoes online in pakistan.
Step out in style with Adoro’s party wear shoes in Pakistan! Whether you’re attending a formal occasion or just looking for fashionable shoes, we have the perfect pair for you. Our shoes are made from premium materials that combine both comfort & style. From classic to trendy, find the perfect pair to add sparkle to your wardrobe today! With Adoro, you’ll always look your best no matter what the occasion..
Get the essence of prayer with our quality Jaye Namaz in Pakistan. Improve a closer relationship with your feelings and religion with our collection. Visit our online store and get it now.
Discover the latest chiffon dress designs by Ramsha – perfect for any occasion. Stay stylish and trendy with our stunning collection.
Discover the stunning collection of bridal dresses for walima at Afrozeh. Perfectly designed to make your special day unforgettable.
Looking for the perfect board games to entertain your kids? Look no further! Discover a wide range of Pakistani board games and play your favorite board games today. Join the fun now!.
Looking for a stylish way to complete your outfit? Adoro’s Men Casual Shoes are a perfect choice! Crafted with quality materials, they come in an array of colors and styles that will add flair to your look. Plus, their comfortable fit and durable construction ensure they’ll keep up with your everyday activities. Get ready to make a statement – it’s time to step up your style with Adoro’s Men Casual Shoes!
Explore the offerings at https://onlinecasinoazerbaijan.org/kazino-bonuslari/depozitsiz-bonus for an unparalleled gaming experience. Unlock exciting rewards like bonus without deposit to maximize your fun. With bonus without deposit, you can enjoy thrilling games and win big without risking your own money!
As educators and parents, we constantly teach children self-regulation skills, such as helping them complete tasks they don’t want to do and working through difficult emotions quordle
Your support has been invaluable to my professional development, and I will always be grateful.
five nights at freddy’s game
ECS presents stylish women chappal design, blending comfort and fashion effortlessly. Explore our collection for the perfect footwear statement. Shop now!
Explore Jazmin’s summer dresses for women, featuring lightweight fabrics and vibrant designs perfect for the warm season. Create your unique style with our unstitched collection, tailored to your taste. Shop now at Jazmin, your top choice for premium women’s apparel in Pakistan.z
Are you looking for sale on brands in Pakistan? So come to Jazmin and get a sale on the latest dresses in all over Pakistan with fast delivery. Do not miss out on this opportunity to update your wardrobe with our massive collection. Shop Now!
Buy the latest men formal shoes in all sizes with different colors at reasonable Prices. We deliver a product on COD in all over Pakistan with fast delivery.
Her Beauty offers the best facial cleanser in Pakistan. From oil cleansers to face cleansers, find the perfect product to rejuvenate your skin.
Shop the latest collection of Ammara Khan unstitched dresses for women. Perfect for every occasion, our designs are unique and stylish.
Shop the latest women dresses at Nishat Linen. Explore our wide range of stylish and trendy dress designs for women in Pakistan.
Check out Ammara Khan’s new long shirt design! Stylish, comfy, and perfect for any occasion. Elevate your look effortlessly!
Elevate your summer wardrobe with Nishat Linen’s Lawn Shirt collection. Explore chic designs crafted with quality materials for effortless style. Shop now for the perfect addition to your ensemble.
Find the best Fancy Lights price in pakistan at Chahyay. Illuminate your space with our range of stylish and affordable lighting options.
Visit Declare to check out the newest selection of beautiful new dresses. Discover your ideal dress for every event with our selection of stylish party dresses. Shop now and step up your fashion game with Declare’s trendy designs.
Discover luxury pret fashion at Declare. Elevate your wardrobe with our premium clothing collection for those who appreciate timeless elegance and styles.
Elevate your wardrobe with our curated selection of t shirts for ladies. Explore a diverse range of styles, from classic crew necks to trendy graphics, crafted with premium quality materials for ultimate comfort and style. Whether you’re looking for a casual everyday staple or a statement piece to stand out, our collection has something for every fashion-forward woman. Shop now and redefine your wardrobe with our latest arrivals!