Self-regulation is the ability to manage emotions, behaviours, and body movements in response to various situations. It includes the skills to calm ourselves when upset, focus attention, and manage impulses, all while being aware of how our behaviour affects others. In early childhood, developing self-regulation is foundational for a child’s emotional, social, and cognitive growth, setting the stage for lifelong success.
Why Is Self-Regulation So Important in Early Childhood?
In the early years, children’s brains are incredibly receptive to learning new skills, especially those related to managing emotions and behaviour. During this crucial period, children begin developing the ability to cope with frustration, wait their turn, and navigate social interactions—all components of self-regulation. Developing these skills early on is essential for the following reasons:
Emotional Development: Self-regulation helps children understand and express their emotions in a healthy way. Instead of reacting impulsively to anger or frustration, children who develop these skills learn how to calm themselves, express feelings, and seek help when needed.
Social Skills: Children who regulate their emotions effectively are more likely to form positive relationships. They learn to share, cooperate, and engage in social problem-solving. These skills are critical for making friends, working in groups, and creating a sense of belonging.
Academic Success: Self-regulation is closely linked to focus and attention. Children who can manage their impulses and emotions tend to have better concentration, allowing them to engage in learning activities with persistence. Research shows that children with well-developed self-regulation skills are better equipped to navigate challenges in educational settings.
Resilience: Learning self-regulation builds resilience. Children who can manage their emotions are more likely to bounce back from setbacks and frustrations. They develop problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the capacity to manage stress—traits essential for well-being throughout life.
How Do Children Develop Self-Regulation?
Self-regulation skills are developed through interactions with trusted adults and peers. When children have consistent, supportive relationships, they feel safe enough to express emotions and learn how to manage them. Strategies such as co-regulation, where an adult helps guide a child through their emotions, are vital. Adults model how to calm down, focus, and adapt, teaching children these skills through observation and practice.
Activities that foster self-regulation in early years settings include:
Mindfulness exercises: These help children become more aware of their emotions and bodies, learning how to breathe deeply and find calm when feeling overwhelmed.
Play: Play is a powerful tool for teaching self-regulation. Through role-play, games, and structured activities, children learn to take turns, manage excitement, and problem-solve.
Creating safe environments: Environments that offer children predictable routines, spaces for retreat, and opportunities for independent exploration build the foundation for self-regulation skills.
Why Self-Regulation Is Central to Well-Being
Self-regulation is not just about managing behaviour; it’s about well-being. When children develop these skills, they experience a sense of control and security, which supports their mental health. A child who can navigate their emotions and adapt to changes is more likely to feel competent and confident.
At Informed Early Years, we emphasise self-regulation as a critical strand of early childhood development. We provide workshops, e-learning courses, and coaching to help parents and professionals implement strategies that foster these skills in children. Building self-regulation early in life is an investment in children’s future, ensuring they grow into resilient individuals capable of thriving in diverse situations.
Take the Next Step
Explore our resources and courses to learn more about how you can support self-regulation in your practice or at home. Together, we can create environments where children learn the skills needed to navigate life’s challenges with resilience, confidence, and emotional health.
Warmest regards,
Carly Blackburn
Founder, Informed Early Years
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