The adult’s role in scaffolding children’s self-regulation
is critical. She provides repeated opportunities for
young children to learn new self-soothing skills and to
practice, over time, the abilities they need to regulate and
calm themselves more independently. In the opening vignette,
when Ms. Ellen mirrors Madison’s facial expressions
and labels her emotional state, she helps Madison
begin to understand how to identify, preverbally, the
feelings she is experiencing. Madison also learns that her
emotional experiences and needs are important to Ms.
Ellen. The next time Madison drops the toy, she trusts
that Ms. Ellen will help her and as a result, her frustration
may not be so intense. Through repeatedly receiving
responsive, nurturing care, Madison will develop the
ability to understand and regulate her emotions