Promoting Emotional Regulation: What Parents Can Do at Home
Emotional regulation is the ability to recognize, manage, and respond to emotional experiences in a socially acceptable manner. For children with autism or behavioral challenges, managing emotions can be particularly difficult, often leading to meltdowns, anxiety, or withdrawal. This blog post explores strategies that parents can use at home to help their children improve emotional regulation, with evidence-backed insights from peer-reviewed studies, professional organizations, and ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy practices.
The Importance of Emotional Regulation in Children
According to a study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, emotional dysregulation is commonly associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. Children with emotional regulation difficulties may struggle to express their emotions appropriately, leading to an increase in externalizing behaviors such as aggression or self-injury. This study emphasizes the importance of early interventions to teach emotional regulation strategies and notes that ABA techniques can play a key role in improving a child's ability to manage their emotional responses.
The American Psychological Association (APA) also highlights the need for emotional regulation training for children, particularly those with developmental delays. The APA suggests that skills like mindfulness, cognitive restructuring, and emotional labeling are crucial in helping children better understand their emotions and respond to stress. Their research shows that when children are equipped with these strategies, they can better cope with challenges, leading to improved behavior at home and in school.
Additionally, a comprehensive review in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders explored how interventions that focus on emotional regulation can positively impact children with ASD. The study found that children who were taught to recognize their emotions, use calming techniques, and engage in structured problem-solving were able to reduce the frequency and intensity of emotional outbursts. The authors argue that these interventions should be embedded in daily routines to maximize their effectiveness and that parental involvement is key to ensuring consistency in practice.
How C-H-S Can Help
Emotional regulation is essential for helping children with autism or behavioral challenges manage their feelings and behaviors. At C-H-S, we understand that emotional regulation doesn't stop at the therapy session; it continues at home, in school, and in the community. Our ABA therapy programs are designed to teach children emotional regulation strategies that can be reinforced by parents and caregivers at home. Here's how we incorporate these strategies:
- Teaching Emotional Labeling: At C-H-S, we help children identify and express their emotions through ABA-based interventions. We use visual aids, such as emotion charts and social stories, to help children learn to name and understand their feelings. Parents are trained to continue using these tools at home to reinforce their child’s emotional awareness.
- Creating Calming Strategies: We work with families to create personalized calming strategies, such as setting up a sensory-friendly space at home, or teaching children how to use deep breathing techniques during stressful moments. These "calming corners" or designated spaces help children develop self-soothing skills, which can be practiced both in therapy and at home.
- Mindfulness and Self-Regulation Techniques: Our ABA therapists teach mindfulness exercises, including breathing techniques and progressive muscle relaxation, that help children stay calm in stressful situations. Parents are taught how to integrate these exercises into daily routines, so children can practice them at home and in other environments.
- Using ABA Techniques at Home: At C-H-S, we teach emotional regulation using positive reinforcement, prompting, and other ABA strategies. We train parents to use these same techniques at home, such as providing reinforcement when children successfully use calming techniques or prompting them to identify their emotions when they start to become upset.
- Modeling Healthy Emotional Responses: Children often learn by observing adults. We encourage parents to model calm, healthy emotional responses to challenging situations, which helps children learn how to manage their own emotions. C-H-S provides guidance and support to parents in modeling these behaviors.
- Parent Training for Consistent Reinforcement: We believe in the importance of parent involvement in reinforcing emotional regulation strategies at home. Our team works closely with parents to provide the skills and knowledge necessary to support their child's emotional growth, ensuring that these techniques are practiced consistently across all environments.
By focusing on both in-session learning and at-home reinforcement, C-H-S provides a comprehensive approach to teaching emotional regulation skills that promote long-term success.
Let's work together
If you are interested in learning more about how our ABA therapy programs can help your child develop emotional regulation skills, contact C-H-S today. We provide personalized care plans that not only focus on therapy but also equip families with the tools to support their child’s emotional growth at home. Schedule a consultation now to take the first step toward helping your child manage their emotions and thrive.
At C-H-S, we are committed to delivering high-quality, compassionate care that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our clients.
Phone: 858-666-7247