Table 1 Promoting the growth of self-regulation development and co-regulation from birth through age 2: ECSEL approach.
Developmental stage | Characteristics of self-regulation | How caregivers can provide co-regulation | ECSEL techniques and tools |
|---|---|---|---|
Infancy (birth to age 1) | Orient attention away from stressors Engage caregivers as resources for comfort Begin to self-soothe | Interact in warm responsive ways Anticipate and respond quickly to child’s needs Provide physical and emotional comfort when child is stressed Modify environment to decrease demands/stress | Physiological techniques CTEE |
Toddlerhood (ages 1–2, approximately) | Begin to select and shift attention (attentional control) Adjust behavior to achieve simple goals Delay gratification and inhibit responses for short periods when there is structure and support Emotions are stronger than cognitive regulation Feelings of attachment support prosocial goals | Reassure/calm child when upset by removing child from situations or speaking calmly and giving affection Model self-calming strategies Teach rules and re-directing to regulate behavior | CTEE Peace Corner Mood Mirror Emotion Chart Emotion Books |