Introducing The Zones of Regulation
In Concept 2 (C2), we explore the four Zones of Regulation and how they are used to categorize and identify the variety of feelings and energy states we all experience. Learning about The Zones of Regulation framework provides us with an easy way to think about, communicate around, and care for our feelings. C2 is meant to be an introduction to the four Zones and to establish the common language that learners and leaders will use throughout the curriculum and daily life. Since every person experiences a wide range of feelings, we stress that all the Zones are okay, and you should not attach judgement or shame to any one Zone.
We highly encourage you to refer to Module C: What is The Zones of Regulation? or Chapter 2 in Getting Into The Zones of Regulation to familiarize yourself with The Zones of Regulation framework and learn more about the following Zones of Regulation Key Principles:
- Zones are based on feelings, not behaviors.
- All the Zones are okay.
- Our experience of The Zones is unique.
- The Zones of Regulation is not a compliance-based model.
- The Green Zone is not the goal.
Learning Targets
- I can name and describe the four Zones of Regulation.
- I can sort, or categorize, feelings into the four Zones of Regulation.
Vocabulary
Emotions: Feelings we have.
Category: A group of things or ideas that are similar.
Zone: A category used to describe our feelings on the INSIDE (including emotions and energy).
Key Climate Practice
Post the Zones of Regulation visual created in the C2 Group Activity in an accessible location.
- Hands On: Represent or mirror emotions using Play-Doh, Wicki Stix, white boards, etc.
- Vocabulary: Pair new terms with alternate synonyms/expressions to develop familiarity. Category/Categorize: group, sort.
- Pare it Down: Skip the three slides after the slide titled Sort the Feelings and before the Group Activity, if needed.
- Break it Up: Focus on one Zone at a time throughout the concept and Group Activity: The Zones Poster, including the video: What are The Zones of Regulation? and The Four Zones slides.
- Simplify: Introduce 1-2 emotions per Zone, adding more over time.
- Check for Learning: See Alternative Formative Assessment options in the Concept Guide.
Books to Support Early Learning
For additional books to use with each zone see the full book list.
The Way I Feel
by Jann Cain
- Which emotion was new to you?
- Are you having any of the feelings from the book right now?
The Feelings Book
by Todd Parr
- What emotions from the book have you had?
- Which Zones did you see in this book?
The Color Monster: A story about emotions
by Anna Llenas
- What’s your favorite emotion page in the book? What do you like about it?
- Pick an emotion that’s not in the book. How would you show it?
For learners with limited recognition of emotional vocabulary, facial expressions, or body language, you may want to pause and practice these skills prior to introducing the four Zones. Consider the learners’ age, development, language, and emotional foundation when constructing Zones visuals to ensure they are relevant and meaningful to your learners. For example, use an adaptive set of visuals such as Boardmaker® (or a similar app), drawings, or photos to create the Zones visual. Use iconography that is representational of your learners.
Learners with a history of trauma may feel uncomfortable when discussing or identifying their own feelings and these discussions may trigger upsetting memories. It might be simpler for learners to recognize and talk about the feelings of others before discussing their own emotions. You can opt to not address questions about identifying one’s personal emotions in this lesson, since future lessons will cover recognizing physical signals and cues for each Zone.
Culture plays a large role in how we think about and communicate around emotions, including the language we use and our comfort or openness in discussing them. The emotion words we use in this concept, and the curriculum moving forward, are based on American English. Some terms may not have the same meaning across language and culture. For example, the word “silly” can have a negative connotation when translated to Spanish. Use your best judgement to translate and/or rename emotions in a way that is culturally responsive. Additionally, different cultures may associate the Zones colors with other feelings and emotions. For example, some colors in Chinese culture have symbolic meanings, e.g., yellow= power and red= joy or luck. It is helpful to understand what associations your learners may have based on their culture and lived experiences. Approach cultural differences with curiosity; consider having discussions with families and community members regarding their approach to emotional awareness and expression.
- Group Activity
- Illustrated Emotions (one set per whole group, preselected and cut out)
- Blue, green, yellow, and red construction paper (one set per whole group)
- Tape or glue
- Scissors
- C2 Check for Learning (one per learner)
- C2 Bridge (one per learner) Spanish Version
- Geared Activity of choice (quantity will vary)
Self-Awareness
Self-Management
Social Awareness
Responsible Decision Making
Relationship Skills
Pacing Suggestions
For 20-30 Minute Sessions (The chart below aligns to the table of contents in the Interactive Presentation)
DAY 1
C2 Introduction
- Learning Targets & Key Vocabulary
- Hook: Emotion Challenge
C2 Core Lesson
- Categorizing
- Video: What are the Zones of Regulation?
DAY 2
- Digital Game: Sort Feelings
- Group Activity: The Zones Poster
DAY 3
C2 Geared Activities
C2 Wrap Up
- Review & Check for Learning
- Keep it Real!
Presentation Guide
Interactive Presentation
Group Activity
Check for Learning
Bridge
Spanish Version
Geared Activities
For guidance on selecting activities, see the Geared Activity Overview from the Getting Started page.
Gear 1
Gear 2
Gear 3
Alphabetical Emotions
Emotional 20 Questions
Zones Visuals
Extend Learning
Additional Zones Climate Practices
Own your Zone: This is a phrase used to describe using Zones language to name your own feelings throughout the day or week, and to do so with confidence and without judgment. For example, you might comment “I’m feeling tired in the Blue Zone this morning.” This establishes a safe climate for learners to explore their own feelings in your setting.
Literature link: Ask learners to identify how fictional characters in literature are feeling and what Zone they may be in. Challenge learners to provide details from the text and/or images that provide clues to the feelings they’ve identified, such as facial expressions and body language. If learners point out a character’s behavior, make sure to relate it to the feeling to which it would correlate. For example, if a character slammed the door (behavior), point out that they may be feeling angry in the Red Zone and have a lot of energy in their body (feeling).
Expand vocabulary:
- Add the vocabulary words “emotions,” “category,” and “Zone” to your word wall or vocabulary list (if applicable). Use them in academic discussions and conversations with learners. Continue this practice moving forward in the curriculum.
- Pick a feeling that wasn’t included in your Zones Poster. Discuss the new emotion and which Zone it can be added to. Ask learners to think about how and when they have experienced that feeling. Over time, add new emotions to each of the four Zones to expand learners’ emotional vocabulary and understanding.
Expand your visuals: Post additional Zones visuals/posters in places where learners spend a lot of time (e.g., cafeteria, classroom, kitchen, bedroom).
Bridging The Zones
Share the C2 Bridge with families, caregivers, and other team members. Encourage them to create and post a Zones Visual in their space.
More Zones Resources
Exploring Emotions App: The second app from The Zones of Regulation, Exploring Emotions, is designed to foster regulation skills in an engaging manner, while simulating realistic everyday situations. It helps learners gain skills to consciously regulate their feelings using The Zones within their environments. Currently available for download on iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac, Chromebook (Android Compatible). One app download may be used for up to 26 unique learners. (Ages 4+.)
For more information: zonesofregulation.com/explore-and-purchase-the-zones-products/ or visit your app store.