Calming Corners
WHY CALMING CORNERS WORK:
Reduce Negative Behaviors: linked to decrease in negative student behaviors
Enhance Emotional Regulation: de-esculate heightened emotions
Positive Impact on Classroom Climate: student engagement and connection
Promotion of Lifelong Coping Skills: normalizes self-regulation strategies
Idea Starters for Your Calming Corner:
Spaces In Between
WHY SPACES IN BETWEEN WORK:
Encourage Peer Connection: spark casual conversations and community-building
Support Mental Reset: offer students a pause between structured learning moments
Make Use of Transitional Spaces: turn overlooked areas into intentional, engaging spaces
Promote Flexible Use: adapt to student needs—whether it’s movement, focus, or collaboration
Idea Starters for Your Spaces In Between:
Interactive Play
WHY interactive play is important:
Enhances Cognitive Development: encourages learners to think creatively and solve problems
Deepens Emotional Expression: teaches emotional expression and management as they imagine themselves in different roles and perspectives
Improves Social Skills: often involves interactions with peers and skills such as cooperation
Promotes Language Development: practice dialogue, storytelling, and thought expression
Develops Fine and Gross Motor Skills: promotes understanding of spatial awareness and physical abilities
Sensory & Safe
WHY SENSORY & SAFE IS IMPORTANT:
Supports Sensory Regulation: gives students tools and spaces to manage sensory input in a calming, safe environment
Encourages Emotional Safety: creates spaces where students feel secure and supported, helping reduce anxiety and stress
Promotes Inclusivity: meets the needs of diverse learners, including those with sensory processing differences or trauma backgrounds
Builds Self-Awareness and Control: helps students recognize when they’re feeling overwhelmed and take initiative to self-regulate in a way that works for them
Prioritizes Physical Safety: full foam construction and no hard edges help minimize risk during movement or rest
