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Social & Emotional Development
Developing Self-Regulation
WiseTip: SE-REG-M0818-I01D

If your child starts to get upset, go somewhere quiet and without bright lights to help them self-soothe.

8-18 months
Interaction with child
WHY IT MATTERS

Children need adults who are sensitive and their cues and responsive to their needs. They also need adults to provide a soothing presence and create an environment for them in times of distress. Over time, responding to the children’s needs responsively and consistently helps them to learn that their feelings of distress are not permanent and do pass. They also learn that there are both external and internal ways to manage these feelings so that they do not overwhelm them.

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  1. Murray, Desiree W., Rosanbalm, Katie, Christopoulos, Christina, and Hamoudi, Amar (2015). Self-Regulation and Toxic Stress: Foundations for Understanding Self-Regulation from an Applied Developmental Perspective. OPRE Report #2015-21, Washington, DC: Office of Planning, Research and Evaluation, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (Level III)

Teach children to self-soothe by remaining calm. Children mirror the reactions of their caregivers. Calmer children are more able to regulate themselves and be in control.