Emotional Regulation
Difficulty recognising and or communicating feelings and managing these when experiencing strong emotions.
Use emotion coaching techniques with high empathy and high guidance. This helps the learner feel understood while learning how to manage emotions constructively.
Support the learner in recognising early signs of emotional escalation using visual tools (e.g., the Incredible Five-Point Scale). This builds emotional awareness and helps the learner respond before becoming overwhelmed.
Model the language of emotion in everyday interactions. This teaches the learner how to name and express feelings appropriately.
Ensure safety for the learner, peers, and staff when the learner is highly dysregulated. This protects everyone and allows space for the learner to regain control.
Observe body cues and help the learner recognise them, replacing unsafe behaviours with safe alternatives. This supports self-regulation and teaches positive coping strategies.
Develop a co-regulation plan with agreed coping strategies (e.g., time out, safe space, walking, deep breathing, movement breaks). This provides the learner with tools to manage emotions and transitions effectively.