The zones of regulation are a framework designed to help individuals, especially children, develop self-regulation skills and emotional control.

The framework categorises emotions and states of alertness into four colour-coded zones, each representing a different level of emotional regulation. The four zones are:

• Blue Zone (Low Energy/Down): In this zone, individuals may feel sad, tired, sick, or bored. The Blue Zone is associated with low energy and a lower state of alertness.
• Green Zone (Good to Go): The Green Zone represents a calm and focused state. People in this zone feel happy, content, and ready to learn. It is the optimal zone for learning and social interactions.
• Yellow Zone (Heightened State of Alertness): The Yellow Zone indicates a heightened state of alertness. Individuals may be experiencing stress, frustration, excitement, or anxiety. It's a state where individuals are not in complete control but are not out of control either.
• Red Zone (High Alert/Overwhelmed): The Red Zone represents an extremely heightened state of alertness and intense emotions. Individuals may be angry, terrified, or out of control. The Red Zone is associated with a loss of control over one's emotions and actions.

The Zones of Regulation provide a common language for people to express and understand their emotions, as well as tools and strategies to help them move between zones. The goal is to help individuals recognise and regulate their emotions, leading to improved self-control, social interactions, and overall well-being.