Emotional Regulation

Support for big feelings and hard-to-manage moments

Emotions can connect with body signals, sensory needs, routines, communication, and demands.

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What you might notice

Understanding what happens before the reaction

We look at triggers, body cues, sensory load, communication, and task demands.

What you may be noticing

Reactions that feel bigger than the moment, slow recovery after change, or worry around school, sleep, or routines.

  • Reactions that feel bigger than the moment A child may need support when emotions rise quickly or feel hard to communicate.
  • Recovering after change Disappointment or change may take longer to move through.
  • Worry around routines School, sleep, communication, sensory load, and task demands can all contribute.

How OT may help

OT may help children notice early signals, practise regulation tools, and reduce unnecessary strain in routines.

Occupational therapist and child using play and movement for co-regulation
What support can include

Support that fits everyday life

Depending on the child and family priorities, support may include:

Play

Using play and exploration to notice preferences, needs, and participation patterns.

Movement

Exploring movement to support participation, regulation, and confidence.

Visual tools

Using visual supports to make expectations, choices, and next steps clearer.

Co-regulation

Working with a trusted adult to notice signals, recover, and return to participation.

Routine-based problem-solving

Looking at recurring routines to find practical adjustments and next steps.

Family involvement

The role of parents and caregivers

Shared language and realistic strategies can help with recurring situations. Involvement should fit the family.

  • Shared language
  • Early signals
  • Regulation tools
  • Recurring situations
  • Routine problem-solving
Caregiver and child using a simple routine to recover and return to an activity

OT at WonderKids has been foundational to his growing physical and emotional confidence.

Parent of a WonderKids client

Related support

  • Sensory regulation Considering sensory experiences, body cues, and environments that affect participation.
  • Executive functioning Supporting planning, starting, shifting, and following through with everyday tasks.
  • Social play Supporting meaningful play, connection, and participation.
  • Daily independence Supporting participation in self-care and everyday routines.

Let’s discuss the best fit

We can discuss whether OT fits and when another provider may be useful.

Talk with us about what is happening