Self Regulation
Who requires Self Regulation support?
Self-regulation is a person’s ability to adjust and control their reactions, energy level, emotions, behaviours and attention within the context of the environment. Self regulation is strongly influenced by our sensory processing as well as other things, including cognitive and language function.
Is your child having “melt-down” moments? Perhaps they have difficulty dealing with anger? Demonstrates explosive behaviour? Or your child generally has difficulty when things don’t go their way. If any of these things sound familiar in your home then your child may benefit from OT support for self regulation.
What treatment may include?
At Brant Kids we provide strategies, tools, language and experiences to develop a child’s self regulation skills. OT self regulation work focuses on increasing a child’s understanding of what happens to their body and actions when dysregulated. Together we explore strategies to help a child experience calm and be able to regulate their emotions and body in different situations. Treatment often involves practicing the use of these strategies in session, which offers a safe and supported environment while facing challenges.
Parents are encouraged to be involved and will be taught how to understand their children’s needs, recognize the stressors, and be empowered with strategies to support their child through co-regulation in a variety of situations.
Some common curriculums and treatment approaches that we use at Brant Kids include:
Why OT?
As OTs we find a balance between cognitive (top-down) approaches and sensory (bottom-up) approaches to support the child within stressful situations. Like anything, it takes time for the child to transfer learning from the clinic to “real life”, and requires the support of parents and family. We have heard time and time again from parents and teachers how amazed they are to watch children make progress and get through life more easily and confidently.