Parent Learning and Support
Self-regulation
Resources to help you understand what sits behind big reactions and difficult moments, and support your child to manage their emotions, energy and attention with more ease.
What it is and why it matters
What it is
Self-regulation is a child's ability to manage their emotions, energy levels and attention so they can respond to everyday situations in a measured way. It develops gradually, and relies on a child first feeling supported and understood by the adults around them.
Why it matters
When self-regulation is still developing, children may have big reactions to small setbacks, find transitions difficult, or struggle to settle, focus or recover after becoming upset. Over time, this can affect learning, friendships, and how a child feels about themselves.
How these resources help
Rather than focusing on behaviour alone, the resources on this page help you understand what may be making regulation harder for your child right now. With that understanding, support at home can be more structured and better matched to what your child needs.
Coming soon
Regulation Ready
Regulation Ready is a structured program for parents who want a clear way to understand and support their child's self-regulation. It is currently in development, and will bring together what we know about the systems behind a child's emotions, energy and attention into a step by step approach for home.
Looking for more personalised support?
If you would like individualised assessment and guidance for your child, Skill Sense® OT also offers telehealth occupational therapy services. An assessment is the starting point for tailored, one to one support.
Every child deserves to be understood.
Every parent deserves the tools to help.
