Self-regulation is something everyone continually works on whether or not we are cognizant of it.  We all encounter trying circumstances that test our limits from time to time.  If we are able to recognize when we are becoming less regulated, we are able to do something about it to manage our feelings and get ourselves to a healthy place.  This comes naturally for some, but for others it is a skill that needs to be taught and practiced. This is the goal of The Zones of Regulation.The Zones framework provides strategies to teach students to become more aware of and independent in controlling their emotions and impulses, manage their sensory needs, and improve their ability to problem solve conflicts.  

THE FOUR ZONES:  OUR FEELINGS & STATES DETERMINE OUR ZONE
The Red Zone is used to describe extremely heightened states of alertness and intense emotions.  A person may be elated or experiencing anger, rage, devastation, or terror when in the Red Zone. 
The Yellow Zone is also used to describe a heightened state of alertness and elevated emotions, however one has more control when they are in the Yellow Zone.  A person may be experiencing stress, frustration, anxiety, excitement, silliness, the wiggles, or nervousness when in the Yellow Zone.  
The Green Zone is used to describe a calm state of alertness. A person may be described as happy, focused, content, or ready to learn when in the Green Zone.  This is the zone where optimal learning occurs.  
The Blue Zone is used to describe low states of alertness and down feelings such as when one feels sad, tired, sick, or bored.  

Week 1 - I will read the story 'Howard B. Wigglebottom and the Monkey on His Back.'  We will discuss telling the truth.  Zones will be introduced to the learners, along with emotions for each zone.
Week 2 - We will role play our emotions with the 'Inside Out' characters and discuss how we are feeling today along with different strategies that can be used for each emotion.  ie.  what puts you in the red zone and what strategies can be used to get you out of the red zone and into the green zone.  We will play a game of Zones Jeopardy!
Week 3 - We will make a strategy wheel to use to help regulate our emotions. We will use the Inside Out Characters to discuss what our emotions look like and feel like.
Week 4 - Learners will create a toolbox of strategies.  We will also create a worry monster to help battle our worries away.
Week 5 - We will listen to the story 'Make it A Mindful Day' and review our strategies to help us regulate when we are in the red zone.

All lessons include fun read alongs and songs!  Activities are hands on!!!!