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How to Start Your Classroom Calm Space
Sometimes our students just need some time to check in on their emotions, choose strategies that will support them, regroup, and then come back and join the class. With less disruptions and big outbursts, a calm space is the perfect tool for some students.
I've compiled a list of my top must-haves that I believe are some of the best options for starting a calm space within your classroom. I have used these items, recommended them to educators, and continue to come back to the basics with these time and time again.
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1. Books
Having books in your safe space allows students to identify with characters and walk alongside them as they manage their emotions. Some of my favorites include Allie All Along, My Magic Breath, Worry Says What?, and Alphabreaths Too.
A small selection of simple, yet effective, books can get your students into your calm space, learn actionable steps to regulate their emotions, and rejoin the group!
2. Fidgets
Fidgets are a great way to get students to calm their nerves and can provide comfort when our students feel those big emotions. These tools can assist students in self-regulation and relieve stress or anxiety that students may face throughout the day.
Having fidgets in your calm space can allow your students to relieve some stress, regulate emotions, and find comfort quickly so they can rejoin the group and get back to the group plan!
3. Sensory Items
Big emotions can sometimes be the result of overstimulation - from noise, a change in routine, an exciting day ahead, or even slight environmental changes. That's where sensory items come in. Students have the opportunity to take time to remove themselves from an overstimulating situation, regulate their nerves, and focus on the current plan.
4. Visual Timer
Having a visual timer in your classroom calm space is VITAL to getting your students in and out in an effective and appropriate time frame. Some students may require more time than others to regulate their emotions - and that's okay! But we want calm spaces to be used mindfully, not just as an escape from work.
Reminding your students to start the timer when they enter the calm space is a great way to set them up for success as they work through their emotions and rejoin the class!
These products are small, simple items to have on hand in your classroom that can help your students identify, work through, and manage their emotions throughout the school day. Allowing them this time for themselves alleviates the stress of trying to continue to stay in their racing thoughts or big emotions and gives them time to regulate themselves so that they can continue to co-regulate with the people around them.
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Disclaimer: The resources and ideas found on this website are all research-based and vetted with a parent and educator lens. The tools listed have worked for students and children that I work with; however, each child is different. This list is not exhaustive and is a compilation of ideas and strategies to try in schools or at home. No information on this website should be used as medical advice. I am not a clinical psychologist, but I do work alongside them as thought partners in this journey.
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