Together · 20 min
A calm-down corner at home
A small, soft place in the house where anyone, child or adult, can go to settle when feelings get big.
Big feelings need somewhere to go. A calm-down corner is not a punishment and not a time-out. It is a soft, welcoming spot that anyone in the family can choose when they need a few minutes to settle.
The steps
Four small steps,in your own time.
Choose a quiet corner and make it soft: a cushion or beanbag, a blanket, perhaps a small lamp.
Add a few calming things your child chooses: a soft toy, a book, something to squeeze, a picture that makes them feel safe.
Explain it at a calm moment: this is a place anyone can go when they feel too cross, sad or wobbly. You can go there, and so can I.
Use it yourself, out loud: I feel cross, I am going to sit in the calm corner for a few minutes. Afterwards, talk about what happened, gently.
The reason
Why it helps
Children learn to manage feelings by watching adults do it. A calm place that they choose, rather than are sent to, helps them learn that feelings can be settled, not just stopped. When adults use it too, it becomes a family habit rather than a rule for children.
A gentle variation
In a small home, a basket with the same calming things in it can be taken to any quiet spot. Older children may prefer their own room with headphones and a rule that nobody knocks for ten minutes.
WE · TRIBE
Try itwith someone.
Make the corner together on a weekend afternoon, letting each child add one thing. Talk about what helps each of you feel calm; you may be surprised by their answers.
Try it today
Today, choose one quiet corner and put one cushion and one calming thing there with your child.
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