The Signed Zones Regulation Deck empowers emotion communication for Deaf, Hard of Hearing and sign-dependent learners by bridging the gap between feeling and expression.
Designed specifically for non-verbal or sign-dependent children with ASD, this visual tool integrates the proven "Zones of Regulation" framework with clear, illustrated American Sign Language cues.
Autism Map Maker offers this resource to support Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Non-Speaking students on the Autism Spectrum, enhancing their ability to identify and communicate emotions effectively.
What’s Inside the Deck?
The deck is divided into four color-coded categories (Zones) to help children easily categorize their energy levels and feelings:
🔵 The Blue Zone (Slow Mode)
For times when energy is low or the body feels "slow".
Emotions Included:
- Sad
- Tired
- Sick: Illustrated with the specific hand sign for illness.
- Hungry: To address physiological needs that impact mood.
- Lonely
🟢 The Green Zone (Ready to Go)
The optimal state for learning and interaction. This is where we feel "Ready" and "Calm".
Emotions Included:
Calm: Featuring a visual of a person meditating/centering themselves.
Happy
Ready: Illustrated with an encouraging character signing "Ready".
🟡 The Yellow Zone (Caution)
A warning zone where energy is rising. It represents "Energy" that needs to be managed before it overflows.
Emotions Included:
Excited: For high-energy positive feelings.
- Frustrated: Visualizing the tension of being stuck or upset.
- Anxious: A critical card for children to express worry or nervousness.
🔴 The Red Zone (Stop)
The zone of "No Control". These cards help children identify when they have lost control of their safe behaviors.
Emotions Included:
Angry: Features a character engaging in the sign for anger (clawed hand movement).
No Control: A powerful visual helping the child signal they need immediate space or safety interventions.
Key Features for Support
Sign-First Design: Unlike standard flashcards, our characters are depicted performing the signs (ASL-inspired) for each emotion (e.g., Sick, Angry, Ready), providing an immediate model for the child.
High-Contrast Visuals: We use clean lines and bold zone colors (Blue, Green, Yellow, Red) to reduce visual clutter and aid processing for neurodivergent minds.
Full Spectrum of Regulation: Covers the entire emotional range from "Slow" to "No Control", validating every feeling the child experiences.
Help your child sign what they feel, so they can regulate what they do.