Simple, effective strategies to support emotional regulation in primary settings
Helping children develop self-regulation is one of the most important parts of supporting wellbeing and learning in primary schools. When children can manage their emotions, focus their attention, and calm themselves, they are better able to engage, learn, and build positive relationships.
One of the most powerful (and often underused) tools for this is the outdoor environment.
Research highlighted by the BBC shows that spending time in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and support mental wellbeing.
👉 https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20200521-how-nature-can-make-you-happier
In this blog, we’ll explore 10 practical outdoor self-regulation strategies for children that can be easily built into your daily routine.
🌳 1. Use a Nature Grounding Technique
Teach children to calm themselves using their senses.
👉 BBC wellbeing support:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z2r7pg8
Try:
5 things you can see
4 things you can feel
3 things you can hear
Why it works: Grounding reduces overwhelm and helps children reset.
🍃 2. Offer a Calm Choice Menu Outdoors
Give children simple options they can choose from.
👉 BBC Bitesize outdoor learning ideas:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z4v9trd
Examples:
Sit quietly
Watch clouds
Go on a colour hunt
Why it works: Choice builds independence and self-awareness.
🌬️ 3. Practise Breathing with Nature
Encourage slow, controlled breathing.
👉 BBC mindfulness activities:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z2r7pg8
Try:
Blow a dandelion
Breathe in for 4, out for 4
Why it works: Breathing techniques calm the nervous system.
🪵 4. Use Heavy Work Activities
Let children engage in physical tasks.
👉 BBC on benefits of outdoor play:
https://www.bbc.com/news/education-44153754
Try:
Carry logs
Move stones
Build structures
Why it works: Physical effort helps regulate emotions and focus.
🏃 5. Build in Movement Breaks
Encourage children to move before dysregulation builds.
👉 BBC Sport (activity ideas):
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/get-inspired/37356037
Try:
Short runs
Jumping or stretching
Why it works: Movement releases energy and improves concentration.
🍂 6. Provide Sensory Reset Activities
Offer calming sensory experiences outdoors.
👉 BBC Bitesize mindfulness ideas:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zf4kjhv
Try:
Touch different textures
Smell plants or herbs
Why it works: Sensory input helps children feel grounded.
🧘 7. Create an Outdoor Calm Space
Have a dedicated place children can go independently.
👉 BBC wellbeing resources:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/bring-the-noise/teacher-support-for-wellbeing/z4j9mfr
Include:
Natural seating
Shade
Quiet prompts
Why it works: Predictable safe spaces support self-regulation.
🌧️ 8. Use the Weather as a Regulation Tool
Encourage children to notice natural elements.
👉 BBC Future on nature and happiness:
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20200521-how-nature-can-make-you-happier
Try:
Feel the wind
Listen to rain
Why it works: Nature provides calming sensory input.
🪨 9. Offer Simple Focus Activities
Use repetitive tasks to build calm.
👉 BBC Bitesize:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zf4kjhv
Try:
Pebble stacking
Leaf sorting
Why it works: Focused tasks support attention and emotional control.
🌈 10. Encourage Reflection and Reset
Help children recognise what works for them.
👉 BBC Tiny Happy People:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/tiny-happy-people
Try:
“What helped you feel calm?”
“What will you try next time?”
Why it works: Builds long-term self-regulation skills.
🌟 Why Outdoor Self-Regulation Works
Outdoor environments are ideal because they:
Reduce sensory overload
Provide space and freedom
Support movement and exploration
Improve mood and wellbeing
BBC reports highlight how regular access to outdoor environments can positively impact children’s mental health and behaviour, making it an essential part of any school day.
💡 Final Thoughts
Self-regulation isn’t something children just “have”—it’s something they learn through practice, support, and the right environment.
By embedding these outdoor self-regulation strategies into your daily routine, you can help children become calmer, more independent, and ready to learn.
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most powerful:
step outside, slow down, and let nature do the work.
