Self Regulation Song – Stop and Go Free Printable and Video
Self-regulation skills are essential for children to learn how to manage their emotions, behavior, and movements. The “Stop and Go Self Regulation Song” is a fun and interactive way to practice these skills through music and movement. Learn how to play the game, the purpose behind it, and the benefits of working on self-regulation skills. You can download the FREE printable packet and watch the self regulation video below.
HOW TO PLAY THE SELF REGULATION SONG STOP AND GO
Purpose of the Game: The goal of the game is to help children practice self-regulation skills by following simple color-coded instructions to move or stop.
Directions:
This game can be played in small groups, during circle time, or even as an individual activity to practice stopping and going on cue.
- Introduce the Color Codes:
- Red – STOP
- Green – GO
- Orange – STOP
- Purple – GO
- Pink – STOP
- Blue – GO
- Warm-Up: Start with the color pages and explain what each color means. Show the colors to the kids and have them practice stopping or moving based on the code. For example, when you hold up red, they freeze, and when you hold up green, they move.
- Screen-Free Option: Print the colored squares (full-page or small squares from the last page of the printable) and use them to play the game without words or shape cues.
- Video Option: Use the QR code or the link in the PDF to access the music video (or view below). Hit play and let the kids follow along to the music and color codes.
WATCH THE SELF REGULATION SONG HERE
Hit play on the music video to get started!
Student Self-Regulation Rubrics
PURPOSE OF THE GAME
The “Stop and Go Self-Regulation Song” is designed to improve children’s ability to control their movements, focus their attention, and follow multi-step directions. By incorporating music and movement, it makes learning these critical skills enjoyable and memorable. These skills are foundational for success in school, social settings, and daily routines.
Children learn to:
- Respond to cues with appropriate actions.
- Transition smoothly between activities.
- Develop self-awareness of their behavior and emotions.
BENEFITS OF WORKING ON SELF REGULATION SKILLS
Practicing self-regulation through games like this one offers numerous developmental benefits, including:
- Improved Emotional Control: Children learn to pause and adjust their behavior based on external cues, helping them manage frustration or excitement in real-world scenarios.
- Enhanced Focus and Attention: Following the stop-and-go instructions strengthens their ability to concentrate and tune into important cues while tuning out distractions.
- Better Behavioral Flexibility: Switching between moving and stopping helps children develop adaptability, which is crucial for managing transitions in school or home routines.
- Physical Development: Movement activities like hopping, skipping, or freezing improve gross motor skills and body awareness.
MORE SELF REGULATION INFORMATION
Self-regulation is a vital skill that develops over time and with practice. It’s not just about stopping or going; it’s about helping children become more aware of their actions and emotions, teaching them how to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.
If you’re looking for more self-regulation strategies, printable resources, or tools to use in your classroom or at home, check out these resources below:
- Self-Regulation IEP Goals
- What is Self-Regulation?
- Games to Practice Self-Regulation Skills
- 10 Emotional Regulation Activities for Kids
Download your FREE Self Regulation Stop and Go Packet Here
Prepare for the activity with our free printable! This PDF includes color-coded squares and directions to play the game with or without the video. Use it to practice self-regulation anytime you need a screen-free brain break.
