Why Every Toddler and Preschool Classroom Needs a Calm Down Corner (And How to Set One Up!)
A calm down corner (you may also hear it called a cozy corner, quiet corner, break spot, etc) is one of the most powerful tools you can add to your classroom to support toddler through preschool age children with their big feelings.
What IS a calm down corner?
A calm down corner is not just a play house cube with that flat blue mat and deflated pillow (IYKYK). It’s a small intentional space in the classroom designed to help children regulate emotions and sensory input.
IT. IS. NOT. A. TIME. OUT. SPOT. As a pediatric speech therapist and early intervention specialist that provides services in child cares, I can’t tell you how many times I have been in a center and heard a teacher say, “I can’t believe you just…[insert undesirable behavior]. Go to the cozy corner!” Umm…What!? That’s a time out and I can 100% assure you that child is NOT going to seek that space out when they are feeling upset or dysregulated.
A calm down corner gives children the chance to practice regulation. It’s a support, not a consequence or time out.
HOW TO SET IT UP
Pick a spot in your classroom that is generally away from distractions or busy areas. Try to look for a little “nook” or arrange some of your furniture to create that “nook” feeling. (You can use the play house cube. I wasn’t hating on the cube itself, just what’s in it and how it is used)
Make the space cozy. Add soft rugs, pillows, stuffies, cushions, a bean bag chair, or a soft blanket. I love weighted blankets too but not all child care’s are allowed to have them so make sure to check with your director. You can always try a weighted lap pad or stuffy.
Add some sensory tools- things to touch, look at, listen to, etc. Squeeze toys, noise reducing headphones, visual bottles, soft music, twinkle lights, etc. can all be available to support the child’s sensory needs. (we have a blog on this too!)
How to Introduce It
Talk about the calm down corner during circle time or group meetings.
Show children what’s inside it and how to use the sensory tools.
Model using the space yourself.
Use books to talk about feelings.
The key is teaching children what the space is for before they need it. Use the books below and have children “act out” the characters feelings and then practice going to the calm down area. This is called role playing and it is so helpful!
click the image to build your class library!
Want to make sure your calm down area actually works? I put together a free guide just for child care providers and preschool teachers! Download it below!
