“Self-regulation” is the ability that allows us to manage our thoughts and feelings, control our impulses, and problem-solve – something we could all stand to learn a little better.
Now, a new report from researchers at UNC and Duke is urging schools to teach “self-regulation” skills – asserting that those skills can “increase opportunities for (long-term) student success” in a variety of ways.
Published in November, the report is the fourth in a series on “Self-Regulation and Toxic Stress” from the Administration for Children and Families at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
Dr. Murray discussed the report on WCHL with Aaron Keck.
The report finds that self-regulation can be taught in the same way as literacy – beginning with simple skills and building from there. Murray says there are two critical development periods – early childhood and early adolescence – when it’s particularly vital to teach self-regulation skills, especially to kids who are struggling to develop them. (Many factors – from genetics to poverty – can affect a child’s ability to develop self-regulation skills.)
Why teach self-regulation? “Self-regulation affects wellbeing across the lifespan,” says Murray, “from mental health and emotional wellbeing to academic achievement, physical health, and socioeconomic success.” (The report finds those positive benefits across the economic spectrum.) The new report urges schools to focus more heavily on helping students develop those skills – including giving teachers and school staff additional training to help them teach self-regulation in class.
There is so much to consider when helping children develop self-regulation. Intentional teachers have to really assess children by observing them and considering many factors such as home, nurture, biological factors, physical health, weather etc. Many factors can contribute to a child acting out.
There is so much to consider when helping children develop self-regulation. Intentional teachers have to really assess children by observing them and considering many factors such as home, nurture, biological factors, physical health, weather etc. Many factors can contribute to a child acting out.