Traffic Light Feelings Regulation Game
Use red-yellow-green zones to teach kids when to stop, slow down, or go with their emotions — a visual tool for self-regulation.
What You'll Need
- 1Red, yellow, and green paper or cardstock
- 2Scissors
- 3Markers
- 4Tape for wall display
What You'll Need
Red, yellow, and green paper or cardstock
Scissors (adult use for cutting circles)
Markers for labeling
Tape to display on the wall
How to Play
Cut three large circles — red, yellow, green — and arrange them like a traffic light.
Explain the zones: Red = STOP (so upset I can't think). Yellow = SLOW DOWN (getting frustrated). Green = GO (calm and ready).
Tape them to a visible wall.
Read out scenarios: "Your sister took your crayon. What zone are you in?"
For each zone, brainstorm calming strategies together. Red: deep breaths, walk away. Yellow: count to 10, ask for help. Green: talk it out, try again.
Practice moving from red to green: pretend to be really upset, then breathe and transition through the zones.
Start using the language naturally: "I can see you're in the yellow zone. What can you do?"
Why It Works
The traffic light metaphor works because kids already understand it — red means stop, green means go. Mapping these colors onto emotions gives children a vocabulary for their internal state that's concrete and visual. Instead of being told to "calm down" (which means nothing when you're in the red zone), they have a framework: recognize your zone, then use the strategy for that zone. Over time, kids start self-identifying: "I'm in the yellow zone, I need a break." That's the holy grail of self-regulation.
Tips
Post the traffic light somewhere your child can see and reference it independently.
Use it for yourself too: "I'm feeling yellow right now. I'm going to take some deep breaths." Modeling is everything.
Don't use zones punitively. Never say "You're in the red zone!" as an accusation. It's a tool, not a label.
Add a body sensation component: "Red feels like tight fists and hot cheeks. What does yellow feel like in your body?"
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 20 min, with 10 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: red, yellow, and green paper or cardstock, scissors, markers, tape for wall display.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 4-6 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This is an easy activity that requires minimal setup and supervision. Great for busy days or when you need something quick.
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