The Zones of Regulations is a researched based program or curriculum that is designed to foster self-regulation and emotional control in our students. Self-regulation is sometimes referred to as 'self-control' or 'self-management'. If we can help or support the students in recognizing when their bodies and brains may be excited, angry, frustrated, silly, happy, focused, sad or tired, we can give them the necessary strategies to be in control of not only their bodies, but also their learning. It is absolutely okay to have all of these feelings (or be in all of the zones), but we have to 'manage' our feelings so that we can get back to the green or 'Ready to Learn' zone.
It made this counselor's heart very happy to see the connections that our Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grade students made to the colors or zones when we introduced it to them this week.
Below is a link to one of the Kindergarten presentations we did at Miller:
Below is a link to one of the 1st and 2nd grade presentations we did at Craddock:
Zones defined a little:
Blue Zone ~ is used to describe a state of reduced alertness, such as when one feels sad, tired, sick or bored; the body and brain are slow or sluggish.
Green Zone ~ is used to describe a regulated state of alertness. The brain and body are calm, happy, focused or content; they are "Ready to Learn."
Yellow Zone ~ is used to describe a heightened state of alertness, however the person has some control over their body or brain. Someone may feel anxious, frustrated, silly or nervous and may be wiggly or squirming.
Red Zone ~ is used to describe an extreme heightened state of alertness or very intense feelings. Someone may experience anger or excitement, and may not be able to control their body and brain.
