Zones of Regulation

The Zones of Regulation is a behavioural approach used to help kids regulate their needs, emotions and impulses in relation to the environment.

By categorising emotional states into four coloured zones, children develop an improved awareness of their body’s state. We can then develop individualised strategies to adjust their state when needed.

Zones of regulation

The Red Zone is used to describe extremely heightened states of alertness and intense emotions.  A child 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 child 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 child 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.  

By creating a frame of reference for feelings and emotions, your child can learn to recognise how their feelings are connected to their behaviours.

For more information, visit the Zones of Regulation® website.