Keynote Presentation

Photo of Leah Kuypers

 

Understanding Regulation: A Beginner’s Guide to The Zones of Regulation

Leah Kuypers (OTR/L),
Founder and CEO of The Zones of Regulation

Duration: 3 hours
Date and Time: 11/6/26 • 7:30 - 10:30am PT / 8:30 - 11:30am MT / 9:30 - 12:30pm CT / 10:30 - 1:30pm ET
Format: Live stream via Zoom

This three-hour live workshop integrates foundational knowledge of regulation development with the newest updates to The Zones of Regulation framework and Curriculum. Designed for multidisciplinary educators, school-based therapists, and support staff, it examines how regulation develops, the biological and environmental factors that shape it, and how shifting from a behavior-focused to a regulation-development lens can transform practice. Participants explore core principles of regulation, engage in group application activities, and learn practical strategies for creating environments that support regulation growth. The workshop also introduces updated concepts, neurodiversity-affirming practices, strengthened climate strategies, and the redesigned Zones Curriculum to improve accessibility and engagement across multi-tiered systems of support.

Learning Objectives:

  • Identify how neurocognitive and environmental factors shape the development of regulation in children and adolescents.
  • Apply foundational strategies and environmental practices that strengthen regulation support across school and therapeutic settings.
  • Integrate updated concepts, signature practices, and neurodiversity-affirming approaches from The Zones of Regulation Curriculum (2024) into instruction and intervention.
  • Utilize features of the redesigned Zones Curriculum to enhance accessibility, engagement, and regulation learning for diverse learners.

 Presentation Breakdown (Central Time):

*Please note that all times are approximate.

Session 1: 9:30–10:15 (45 mins)

  • Defining Regulation and Factors That Impact Its Development
  • Collaborative workshop: 10 minutes
    • Stop & Jot Worksheet: Factors Impacting Regulation
    • Prompt: Reflect on a learner you support. What are some of the factors impacting their regulation?

Session 2: 10:15–10:55 (40 mins)

  • The Adult Facilitator’s Role in Laying the Foundation for Regulation
  • Collaborative workshop: 10 minutes
    • Stop & Jot: Building the Foundation
    • Prompt: Reflect on your practice and/or organization. What stands out as strengths and opportunity areas?

10-Minute Regulation Break 10:55–11:05

Session 3: 11:05–11:45 (40 mins)

  • Introduction to The Zones of Regulation Framework, Zones Digital Curriculum, and Key Principles
  • Collaborative workshop: 10 minutes
    • Stop & Jot: The Fundamentals of The Zones of Regulation
    • Prompt: Circle one Key Principle that is a focus for you. How can you integrate it into your practice?

Session 4: 11:45–12:10 (25 mins)

  • Zones Signature Practices, Climate Strategies, and Implementation Overview
  • No workshop, but “Pause and Reflect” prompts throughout

Live Q&A: 12:10-12:30 (20 mins)

  • Dedicated time to ask questions, clarify concepts, and discuss next steps.

 

Speaker Bio:

Leah is the creator of The Zones of Regulation® and founder of TheZones of Regulation, Inc. where she serves as CEO. An internationally recognized trainer, consultant, and author, Kuypers is passionate about giving people the tools to understand their feelings, manage their states of alertness, and thrive in school, work, and life.

Kuypers earned her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 2001 and began her career working in public schools in the Midwest, including the Chicago and Minneapolis/St. Paul areas. She specialized in supporting students with diverse needs, taking on leadership roles, mentoring colleagues, and building collaborative teams of educators, therapists, and families.

During this time, Kuypers noticed a common thread—many students struggled with sensory regulation and emotional control, affecting their learning and well-being. While completing her Master of Arts in Education and Graduate Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders at Hamline University, she developed the first draft of what would become The Zones of Regulation. Colleagues were quick to notice its impact, and soon Kuypers began sharing her approach at professional workshops.

After moving to California in 2009, Kuypers worked at Communication Works, expanded training opportunities, and collaborated with Michelle Garcia Winner of Social Thinking®. In 2011, The Zones of Regulation curriculum was published by Think Social Publishing, quickly gaining national and international traction.

Kuypers later founded Kuypers Consulting, Inc. in Minneapolis, growing it with the support of family members and colleagues. She co-created two award-winning apps—The Zones of Regulation (2013) and Exploring Emotions (2016)—and developed a suite of companion products. To meet the high demand for training, Kuypers brought on respected professionals and friends, Terri Rossman and Elizabeth Sautter, as collaborative trainers.

In 2024, Kuypers launched The Zones of Regulation Digital Curriculum and the companion book Getting Into The Zones of Regulation, now implemented in over 40 countries. Each year, more than 8,000 educators and practitioners are trained to deliver The Zones with fidelity.

Today, Kuypers continues to develop innovative resources, provide training worldwide, and expand The Zones’ impact across schools, therapy centers, and homes. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband, son, and daughter, and enjoys traveling, family time, hiking, skiing, and outdoor adventures.