How to create a Kid-Friendly Calm-Down Area in your home
By Kate Kwijas for Oskar's Wooden Ark
October 06, 2021
Self regulation (being able to calm down) is a learned skill. When your child’s brain is developmentally ready to acquire this skill, you can help them to explore various strategies to find what works best for them, as individuals. A great way to support your child when emotions are heighten is to have a “calm down space” within your home. This is a purposefully designed space where your child can retreat to in order to feel safe and regain both their physical and emotional control.
"A calm-down corner is an area where a child who is experiencing heightened emotions may go to engage their minds, calm their bodies and release strong emotions in a safe and controlled manner," says Donna Housman, Ed.D, clinical child psychologist and founder of the Boston-based Housman Institute.
Your space should provide materials that promote mindfulness, reflection and breathing. It doesn’t have to be costly or difficult to source and setup. You most likely have everything you need at home already.
We would love to see your Calm-Down Corner! Please take a photo and share it with us on Instagram and Facebook, tagging @oskarswoodenark and using the hashtag: #oskarslittlelearners.
Preparation:
First, consider a comfortable space to sit and reflect.
You might add a soft rug, cushions, a beanbag, comfortable couch or chair, a weighted blanket or a Wobbel Board with a Pillow and Deck.
Step 1:
Create a comfortable, inviting space.
Step 2:
Provide materials and toys that promote mindfulness.
Step 3:
Invite your child to slow down, breath and to reflect.
Ideas of what to include:
· Senger Soft Toys
· Books (e.g. The Gruffalo)
· Sound Tree / Music
· Artwork on the walls
· Sensory play objects (e.g Grimm's Grasper)
· Toys for chewing (e.g. Grimm's Grasping Boat)
· Drawing Materials & Kite Paper
· Yoga or Wobbel Board Cards
· Play dough
· Grapat Mandala Pieces
· Mader Spinning Tops
· Sarah's Silks
Why not brainstorm with your child what works best to calm them down and design the space together?
Benefits and Learning Outcomes:
Mindfulness is important at any age. Being able to calm down and self regulate when one's emotions are heightened, is an important skill that children will benefit from for the rest of their lives.
