Nurturing Self-Regulation in Early Childhood: Co-Regulation, Connection and Calming Practices for Big Emotions

Young children experience big emotions, rapid transitions, and stressors they cannot yet name or manage on their own. This interactive workshop—rooted in Stuart Shanker’s self-regulation approach—helps educators understand the roots of stress behaviour, the difference between misbehaviour and stress responses, and the essential role of co-regulation in fostering emotional safety.

Grounded in the belief that play thrives when children feel safe, regulated, and connected, this workshop highlights how co-regulation and supportive environments lay the foundation for both well-being and meaningful play. Through hands-on activities, reflection, and practical demonstrations, educators will learn how to create spaces where children can return to calm, re-engage in play, and build the emotional resilience needed for healthy development.

Participants will design calming kits, plan intentional calming spaces, and develop personalized co-regulation action plans that enhance daily routines. By the end, educators will feel equipped to nurture environments that support self-regulation, strengthen relationships, and promote both well-being and joyful, confident play.

Workshop Goals

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

• Develop a foundational understanding of self-regulation and stress behaviour across the five domains (biological, emotional, cognitive, social, and prosocial).
• Enhance co-regulation practices by learning how adult presence, tone, environment, and attuned responses help children feel safe, supported, and ready to engage in play.
• Create practical tools—calming kits, calming spaces, and a co-regulation action plan that collectively support children’s wellbeing and empower them to return to calm and re-enter play with confidence.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
• PD funding and RT funding available to eligible participants.
• Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
• All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
• This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
• You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
• A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
• All tickets are non-refundable. Transfers may be requested with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice.
• E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.