SE4. Regulating Emotions and Behaviors

Uses sounds, facial expressions, sign language, or gestures to gain adult attention to reduce discomfort or distress.

Responds to a familiar caregiver's efforts to calm or soothe.

Seeks comfort from familiar caregivers actively, using sounds, facial expressions, sign language, gestures, or some words.

Uses existing safe relationships and the environment to cope with difficult situations or discomfort (e.g., cuddling, adult labeling emotions).

Tolerates brief delays in having needs met.

Uses a variety of coping/calming skills when heavily supported by caregivers and sometimes independently when in a safe and consistent environment.

Follows basic expectations to manage emotions and behaviors, with reminders or assistance.

Waits briefly to obtain a preferred item.

Accepts caregiver guidance and assistance when feeling strong emotions or discomfort.

Follows increasing expectations to regulate feelings and behaviors with necessary reminders or assistance.

Demonstrates the ability to delay gratification for longer periods of time.

Expresses feelings, needs, opinions, and desires more frequently through preferred communication methods.

Shows increasing understanding of changing expectations for behavior and emotional expression in different settings (e.g., home, school, or grocery store).

Shows ability to manage challenging feelings and behaviors, with caregiver support.

Shows increasing ability to understand the connection between actions and consequences, including the ability to stop and think in situations.

Demonstrate healthy ways to express needs, wants and feelings (National Health Standard)