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What is Self-Regulation?
When children are born, the brain is ready to make connections that support the beginnings of self-regulation. As children become toddlers and then preschoolers, their brain capacity for self-regulation increases rapidly. As I have mentioned in previous posts, this capacity will not be fully realized without a supportive environment; just like literacy and math skills. For mathematical development, we encourage open-ended, playful exploration that allows for children to solve problems in naturalistic situations. The situations are meaningful, and children gain a deeper understanding of number, quantity, size and patterns. Self-regulation is the same, in that, children need structured environments to hone the skill. Offering supportive relationships and direct teaching for self-regulation skills is crucial to this important skill.
What is Self-Regulation in the Early Childhood Classroom?
Self-regulation encompasses various aspects crucial for a child's development:
Impulse control
Expressing emotions
Recognizing emotions
Focusing on a task
Making good decisions
Resolving conflict
Time spent in providing a caring, affectionate relationship & safety and security for a child plays a foundational role in promoting their well-being across the lifespan. Helping children to manage their thoughts and feelings is crucial as they navigate these learning experiences. A big part of self-regulation is controlling impulses and behaviors. We must teach children how to behave in social settings such as mealtimes, shopping, listening to stories, and being in a group of peers.
What Can You Do at Home?
Here are some practical tips for fostering self-regulation at home:
Let your child do some things on their own.
Support them to do new things and solve problems.
Talk to your child about feelings. Help them find ways to calm themselves.
Help your child understand routines.
Be sure to say goodbye when you leave your child.
Make time to play with other children. Go to the park, have playdates, or join a playgroup.
In conclusion, self-regulation is a vital skill that children need to develop for their overall well-being and success in life. By providing a supportive environment both at home and in the early childhood classroom, we can help children cultivate these essential skills from a young age.
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