The Zones of Regulation are a self-regulation framework that helps children identify and manage their emotions, energy, and attention. In OOSH settings, where children transition between school, home, and care environments, this tool can be especially powerful for fostering independence, resilience, and social-emotional wellbeing.
In early childhood education, our relationships with families are foundational but they’re not always easy to navigate. When a child’s behaviour begins to impact the safety or wellbeing of others, educators often find themselves caught between professional responsibility and fear of offending parents. Over time, many have grown hesitant to speak up, even as biting, pushing, and dysregulation become more frequent in toddler rooms.
Below are practical, emotionally intelligent ways to initiate these conversations with families—rooted in respect, partnership, and a shared commitment to every child’s wellbeing.
In early childhood education, our relationships with families are foundational—but they’re not always easy to navigate. When a child’s behaviour begins to impact the safety or wellbeing of others, educators often find themselves caught between professional responsibility and fear of offending parents. Over time, many have grown hesitant to speak up, even as biting, pushing, and dysregulation become more frequent in toddler rooms.
Below are practical, emotionally intelligent ways to initiate these conversations with families—rooted in respect, partnership, and a shared commitment to every child’s wellbeing.
This template is to document violent incidents that occur.
This template is used to reflect and assess a child's behaviour.
This template is used to identify and reinforce positive behaviour and addresses a child's specific behavioural needs.
Supporting a toddler with challenging behavior requires a combination of strategies and resources tailored to their developmental stage. The following article provides information on Strategies To Support Toddlers With Challenging Behaviour, Positive Reinforcement For Toddlers, Teaching Emotional Regulations To Toddlers and more.
Funded by NSW Department of Education and Phoenix support, Understanding and Supporting Children's Behaviour is a self-paced course that consists of six webinars, free for NSW Educators.
EPEC Education has developed a free webinar on "Guiding the Positive Behaviour of Children." It provides suggestions and strategies for fostering a peaceful and supportive environment for children.
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