The window of tolerance
Psychiatrist Dan Siegel describes the concept of the Window of Tolerance, which refers to the emotional zone where a person feels calm enough to think, learn and interact.
⬆️ Hyper-arousal (too high)
Anxiety
Agitation
Anger
Panic
✅ Window of Tolerance
When children are within this window they can:
Focus on learning
Communicate effectively
Connect with others
Regulate their emotions
⬇️ Hypo-arousal (too low)
Withdrawal
Shutdown
Exhaustion
Dissociation
Supporting children to return to their window of tolerance is one of the most important ways adults can support emotional wellbeing.
