Creating a calm corner for your child can be an effective way to help them manage their big emotions and regulate their behaviour. It’s a safe space where kids can step away from what they’re doing to pause and reset with relaxing, non-stimulatory activities. From toddlers through to pre-schoolers, this age group often has very little emotional regulation. This is why it’s so important to monitor their stimulation levels and provide a cosy space in the home to bring their emotions back to calm. In this article, we’ll show you how to create one and what the benefits are – for both your little one and the whole family.
The benefits of a calm corner
Emotional regulation: First up, the most important one! Children experience a range of emotions, but some are harder to manage than others. Big emotions like anger, fear or frustration can cause your little one to spiral into a meltdown as they don’t know how to effectively manage these emotions yet. A calm corner provides a safe and positive space (free of blame, shame or pain) where children can learn to regulate their emotions and practice calming strategies to bring their emotions back to a green level.
Self-awareness: By spending time in their own calm corner, kids can learn to recognise their feelings and the triggers too. It also allows kids to feel okay with these emotions and helps them to identify when they need a break or extra support. Your child can learn that there are different ways to respond, which are more helpful and constructive (than a tantrum or throwing something against a wall!).
Independence: Picture your child taking themself to the calm corner when they’re feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated. This is the aim of a safe space – teaching your little one independence by giving them the resources needed and guiding them initially, so they know when to use the space. The calm corner should be seen as a positive environment by teaching your child that going to this space is not punishment – it’s not a time out or the ‘naughty corner’. It’s actually a special little area that allows them to feel safe and supported.
Improved behaviour: Once you’ve implemented a calm corner in your home, you may notice an immediate improvement in your little one’s behaviour. When children have a place to go to calm down, they are less likely to act out or engage in disruptive behaviour. This can reduce the likelihood of tantrums or meltdowns, as they are encouraged to go to their corner before they erupt into a tantrum or take destructive action.
How to create a calm corner
Select a quiet spot in your home, free from distractions and noise
Ideally, this space should not be near the TV or any other toys in reach. For older children, consider making it more private so they feel comfortable and not watched by their parents or siblings.
Make it feel cosy and special
The aim is to create a calming atmosphere for your child. You can do this by anchoring the space with a soft rug or bean bag chair, then add some cushions and a blanket that they can wrap themselves in if they like. You can also include some restful colours like blue and green - displaying some of their artwork in this corner can be really special for them.
Provide sensory tools and calming activities
To help your little one wind down initially, let them expend their energy by playing with sensory tools like squish balls, fidget pop toys or lift the flap books. Then once they feel more relaxed, they can move onto more calming activities like puzzles, colouring in or utilsing our Calm Down Cards. These beautifully illustrated cards have a variety of activities that act as a visual aid for children to practise when they stressed or overwhelmed. These exercises will gently guide your little one to a calmer state of mind and is something they can do on their own. If your child loves using the techniques demonstrated on the Calm Down Cards, we recommend trying the Calm Corner Kit. It’s a bundle of The Creative Sprout’s most loved resources, including the Emotions Cards, Calm Down Cards and Affirmation Cards that can be rotated in your child’s special corner as a tool for self-awareness and emotional regulation.
To get your child on board with a calm corner, you can involve them in the creation of their special space to help them feel more ownership and control by including things that make them feel happy and safe. We would love to see what space you create in your own home – don’t forget to share and tag us on social media at @thecreativesprout.
