Emotional Regulation in Children: Why Occupational Therapy Helps Build Better Boundaries

Children express emotions in different ways—some loud and active, others more withdrawn. For many children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing challenges, regulating emotions and behaviors in social environments can be overwhelming. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, occupational therapy plays a critical role in helping children learn to manage frustration, adapt to structure, and engage appropriately with their surroundings.

Understanding Emotional Regulation and Boundaries

Emotional regulation is the ability to manage one’s feelings and behaviors in response to the environment. For young children, especially those with developmental delays, this skill doesn’t come naturally. Simple moments—like not being allowed to leave a classroom, waiting their turn, or dealing with disappointment—can trigger big reactions.

Occupational therapists at OrbRom Center use targeted strategies to teach children how to manage these emotional responses. Through play, sensory tools, and structured routines, children learn how to cope, pause, and process emotions more effectively.

When Boundaries Feel Like Barriers

What may appear to be “defiant” or “difficult” behavior is often a child’s way of communicating unmet sensory or emotional needs. Some children may run away when upset, while others may cling to boundaries like fences or doors because those physical structures provide a sense of control or comfort.

Occupational therapy helps children understand the concept of personal and environmental boundaries. It teaches them self-awareness and provides them with tools to feel secure without needing to escape or resist limits.

How OrbRom Center Supports Emotional Growth

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, our occupational therapy sessions are individualized to match each child’s sensory profile and emotional needs. Our therapists use evidence-based interventions such as:

• Visual schedules and timers to support transitions

• Social stories to prepare for boundary-setting situations

• Heavy work activities (pushing, pulling, squeezing) to help regulate big emotions

• Safe space practice to develop self-calming habits

This approach is especially helpful for children with ADHD or autism who may experience intense feelings but lack the verbal or cognitive tools to express them.

Empowering Families Through Therapy

Parents in Phnom Penh trust OrbRom Center not just because of our therapy techniques, but because we build relationships with both children and caregivers. Through consistent therapy, coaching, and communication, families learn to reinforce emotional regulation strategies at home and in the community.

We believe every child deserves to feel safe, understood, and supported—especially when the world feels too overwhelming.

Learn more about our occupational therapy services and how we help children build emotional resilience through structured, play-based support.