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How do I help my child regulate when they're feeling dysregulated?


Published: Apr. 29, 2025Updated: Jun. 6, 2025

If a child's behavior is challenging, we need to address not just the behavior but the underlying root cause, the need, emotion, and experience of the individual. Regulation involves an approach that helps teach kids the tools and strategies to be able to navigate their day successfully even when they feel strong emotional reactions.

To help kids regulate, parents can explore supports like speech therapy, social skills training, and structured play, and teach kids to recognize and respond to social cues, set boundaries, and communicate needs effectively. Parents can also teach kids self-advocacy skills through visual aids, Social Stories, or assistive technologies.

For more ideas, see our article Tips for Building Better Emotional Regulation. Another resource is this short zones of regulation video from Dr. Scott Akins.

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