15 Effective Strategies to Help Students Calm Down When Emotions Run High

As a teacher, you know that self-regulation is crucial for a student's success in school. Children who can manage their emotions and behavior are better equipped to learn and engage in the classroom. However, some students struggle with self-regulation, which can lead to disruptive behavior, poor academic performance, and difficulty building relationships with peers.

 1. Teach Self-Awareness - The first step in developing self-regulation skills is helping students become more aware of their emotions and how they impact their behavior. Encourage students to identify different emotions by name and describe what each one feels like physically and mentally.

2. Provide Sensory Tools - Some children find it challenging to regulate their emotions because they are overwhelmed by sensory input such as noise or bright lights. Providing sensory tools such as fidget toys or noise-cancelling headphones can help them stay calm and focused.

3. Practice Mindfulness - Mindfulness practices such as deep breathing or guided meditation can help students develop greater awareness of their thoughts and feelings while learning how to control them.

4. Set Clear Expectations - Establishing clear expectations for behavior helps students understand what is expected of them and how they should behave in certain situations. Be sure to communicate these expectations clearly and consistently.

5. Use Positive Reinforcement - Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool for encouraging positive behavior in the classroom. Praising good behavior reinforces that it's appreciated while discouraging negative behaviors.

6. Take a Break - When a student feels their emotions running high, encourage them to take a break and step away from the situation. This could mean taking a walk around the classroom, going to the bathroom or getting a drink of water.

7. Use Positive Self-Talk - Teach students how to use positive self-talk by reminding themselves of their strengths and accomplishments. Encourage them to say things like "I can do this" or "I am strong."

8. Practice Gratitude - Have students practice gratitude by identifying something they are thankful for each day. This exercise helps students focus on positive aspects in their lives and can improve their overall mood.

9. Engage in Physical Activity - Physical activity is an effective way to release pent-up energy and reduce stress levels in children. Consider incorporating physical activities such as yoga, stretching or even simple exercises into your daily routine.

10. Listen to Music - Music can have a calming effect on people, so consider allowing your students to listen to music during independent work time or breaks.

If a child is struggling to calm down using the above strategies, here are some additional steps you can take to help them:

11. Validate Their Feelings - It's important to empathize with the child and validate their feelings. Let them know that it's okay to feel angry or upset, and that you're there to support them.

12. A Comfort Cuddly - Offering a comfort cuddly toy to hug or squeeze can be comforting for children who are feeling overwhelmed. Have a few different options available in a basket or box so that they can choose one. The process of choosing one may help begin the calming process as their mind switches to making a decision. 

13. Provide a Safe Space - Create a designated safe space in your classroom where children can go when they need to calm down. This could be an area with comfortable seating, soft lighting, and calming activities such as coloring books or puzzles.

14. Involve Parents/Guardians - If a child is consistently struggling with self-regulation, involve their parents/guardians in the conversation so that everyone is aware of what's happening and can work together to find solutions.

15. Seek Professional Help - If a child continues to struggle with self-regulation despite your best efforts, consider seeking professional help from a school counselor or therapist who can provide more specialized support.

​Remember that every child is unique and may require different approaches when it comes to self-regulation skills. By being patient, empathetic, and creative in your approach, you can help students develop these essential skills for success both inside and outside of the classroom.