Emotional regulation involves managing emotions to guide behavior, complete tasks, and achieve goals. Emotions are complex experiences felt through physiological responses and facial expressions, while feelings are our interpretation of these emotions and tend to last longer. Understanding emotional regulation enhances empathy, connectedness, self-care, survival instincts, and cognitive development. Students who understand their emotions are better at caring for themselves and others.

Calming and coping tools help our nervous system manage stress by calming sensory and cognitive components. These tools prevent automatic “fight, flight, or freeze” reactions during stressful moments. Developing and using these practical tools is essential for emotional regulation.