Reggie is an emotionally intellectual pot plant used for teaching young children about emotional regulation. Through the interaction of play, Reggie aims to reduce vulnerability towards unwanted emotions and increase emotional resiliency when feeling come up. Through continuous use and interacting with Reggie, children will learn how to effectively manage and respond to emotional experiences.
Aimed at children aged between 6 to 8 years old, Reggie aims to help children learn how to recognise and engage with emotions through the interaction of play. Used in a classroom setting, children will work in pairs to help learn, communicate and understand the emotions they are being presented with. Using the Paul Ekman’s 6 Primary emotions, Reggie aims to teach children about the most primitive emotions associated with the common interactions of looking after a pot plant. These 6 primary emotions include happiness, sadness, fear, anger, disgust and surprise. Using several sensors, Reggie responds to the user’s interaction physically, visually and through audio sound. With the use of a speaker, a digital screen, and a motorized flower head Reggie can uniquely respond to each interaction available. Reggie not only aims to teach children about emotional regulation, but the common interactions and responsibilities of taking care of a living organism (like a real plant).
There have been several benefits associated with emotional regulation and children’s development. It is important that young children can regulate their emotion as it helps them pay more attention, work harder, resolve conflicts, and lower levels of stress. With Reggie, we aim to help children’s emotional and mental development.
