Emotional Regulation Skills in Children: A Pathway to Growth

What Are Emotional Regulation Skills?

Emotional regulation is the ability to understand, manage, and express emotions in a healthy way. For children, developing these skills is vital for social interactions, academic success, and overall well-being.

A woman is helping a little girl stretch her legs.

Emotional Regulation Milestones

Understanding emotional regulation milestones can help caregivers and professionals recognize when a child might need additional support:

Infants (0-12 months)

  • Soothing through caregiver interventions (e.g., rocking, cuddling).
  • Expressing basic emotions like happiness, sadness, and discomfort. ď»ż

Toddlers (1-3 years)

  • Beginning to name simple emotions (e.g., happy, mad).
  • Demonstrating early coping skills, such as seeking comfort when upset.
  • Starting to manage short periods of waiting or frustration.

Preschoolers (3-5 years)

  • Using words to express needs and feelings more consistently.
  • Practicing turn-taking and sharing with guidance.
  • Understanding simple rules and consequences.

School-Age Children (6-12 years)

  • Recognizing and labeling complex emotions (e.g., embarrassment, pride).
  • Applying self-regulation strategies like deep breathing or asking for help.
  • Managing conflicts with peers more independently. 

Adolescents (13+ years)

  • Developing empathy and understanding others' perspectives.
  • Using problem-solving techniques to handle stressful situations.
  • Reflecting on emotions and how they influence behavior.

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Emotional Regulation

Occupational therapy (OT) helps children develop the foundational skills needed to manage emotions effectively. Through personalized interventions, OTs address: 

  • Sensory Integration

    Helping children process sensory input in a regulated way.

  • Executive Functioning Skills

    Building strategies for impulse control and flexible thinking. Learn more about Executive Function.

  • Self-Regulation Techniques

    Teaching calming strategies like deep breathing or visual schedules.

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Examples of OT Activities for Emotional Regulation:

Sensory-Based Play: Activities like swinging or fidget toys to support sensory needs

Body Awareness Exercises: Helping children recognize physical signs of stress or overstimulation. 

Routine Building: Establishing structured daily routines for predictability and security

How Speech Therapy Supports Emotional Regulation

Speech therapy (ST) plays a crucial role in helping children develop communication skills that support emotional regulation. Therapists work on:

  • Expressive Language Skills

    Teaching children how to label and express emotions effectively.

  • Social Communication

    Practicing turn-taking, empathy, and perspective-taking.

  • Problem-Solving Conversations

    Building the language needed to navigate conflicts and challenges.

  • Reintegrating into Daily Activities

    Encouraging safe participation in school, hobbies, and sports.

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Examples of ST Activities for Emotional Regulation:

Emotion Flashcards: Using visuals to help identify and discuss feelings. 

Role-Playing Games: Practicing scenarios to handle frustration or disappointment.

Storytelling: Encouraging children to narrate experiences to process emotions.

Benefits of Combining OT and ST for Emotional Regulation

When OT and ST work together, the results can be transformative. By addressing both sensory and communication needs, children gain:

Improved self-awareness and expression

Better coping strategies for managing emotions. 

Stronger relationships with peers and adults. 

How We Help Your Child Thrive

Delays in addressing sports injuries can lead to chronic issues or prolonged recovery times. Engaging PT and OT services early ensures proper healing and minimizes the risk of long-term complications, allowing young athletes to thrive on and off the field.

Start the Journey Today

Contact us to learn more about how occupational and speech therapy can help your child develop emotional regulation skills. Together, we can nurture resilience, confidence, and joy in your child’s life.

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