{"id":16346,"date":"2024-01-15T13:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-01-15T20:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aroundthekampfire.com\/?p=16346"},"modified":"2024-04-08T14:10:54","modified_gmt":"2024-04-08T21:10:54","slug":"how-to-create-a-calm-down-corner-in-the-classroom","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aroundthekampfire.com\/how-to-create-a-calm-down-corner-in-the-classroom\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Create a Calm-Down Corner in the Classroom\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Implementing a calm-down corner in the classroom can change the entire dynamic of your room. Just like adults, your students are going to feel all the emotions. Except, they are still learning how to cope with these big feelings. As teachers, our job is to help them navigate through these moments and give them the needed tools to learn new social-emotional skills. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Creating a calm-down corner (sometimes referred to as a peace corner) in my classroom was truly game-changing in the world of emotions and behaviors. This blog post outlines everything you know about using a calm down corner, its benefits, and some helpful tools to include. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is a Calm Down Corner <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

In short, a\u00a0 Calm-Down Corner or Peace Corner is a designated area within the classroom where students can go to regulate their emotions and take a break when they are feeling overwhelmed or upset. It is a safe and supportive space, separate from the main learning environment, where students can regain their composure and prepare to rejoin their classmates in a calm and focused state.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This \u201ccorner\u201d is typically equipped with various tools and resources to help students calm down, reflect on their feelings, and develop self-regulation skills. These tools can range from sensory items to emotional awareness resources and should be tailored to the specific needs of your students.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

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Benefits of using a Calming Corner in the Classroom<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Just as students are learning new academic skills, they are also growing in their social-emotional skills. Having a calm-down corner provides students a concrete opportunity to learn and practice emotional regulation skills.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When a calm-down corner is used effectively, it can also improve your overall classroom environment which will then lead to improved learning for all students.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To me, having a calm-down<\/span> corner is a win-win for all students (and you!) It\u2019s a great tier-1 behavior intervention<\/span><\/a> to implement every year! <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How to Create a Calm-Down Corner in the Classroom <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here are some easy steps to implementing a calming corner in your classroom! As always, be sure to adjust to make sure it fits the needs of your class! <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 1: Decide on its location<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

No, it doesn\u2019t have to be a \u201ccorner\u201d. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your calm-down space should be away from the rest of the class, but still in clear view of you at all times. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I like to position the \u201ccorner\u201d right next to my desk. This isn\u2019t an area that is frequented by student traffic, yet it\u2019s still easy to get to. This also allows me to pull up my desk chair next to the student (when they are ready) to have a brief check-out talk. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Step 2: Set Calm-Down Corner Expectations\u00a0<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When first implementing a calm-down<\/span> corner in your classroom, it is so important to set clear expectations. Without doing so, students will likely try to use the calm-down corner as an avoidance area or as a toy. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some expectations that I use when introducing my calm-down corner in the classroom! <\/span><\/i><\/p>\n\n\n\n