Tired of spending all your energy helping one student calm down while the rest of the class waits? A calming corner might just be the game-changer you need. The typical definition of a calm corner is a designated space where students can go to self-regulate. Therefore this is definitely something you need in the classroom.

Why you need a calming corner in your classroom

In my experience, I’ve had students who needed a lot of time and teacher support to regulate their emotions. These moments often demanded a significant amount of my attention, which was challenging when managing a classroom of 25+ students. It’s difficult to dedicate all your time to helping one child without feeling like you’re neglecting the needs of the rest of the class.

That’s where a calm corner comes in. With a bit of practice, students can learn to regulate their emotions independently. This not only frees up your time but also provides students with essential life skills to manage their own emotions. It allows you to check in with them on your terms, ensuring you can meet their needs without compromising the flow of your classroom.

Benefits of a Calming Corner

Calm corners offer so many benefits in a classroom setting. They provide a space for emotional regulation, serve as a safe and welcoming retreat, or even double as a cozy spot to read a book. In my classroom, I use my calm corner as a dual-purpose space—it’s both a calming area and a reading nook.

Here’s the best part: calm corners don’t need to be elaborate or Pinterest-perfect. Forget the Instagram-worthy setups! Today, we’re keeping it simple and focusing on the essentials you need to create an effective calm corner. Your classroom calm corner doesn’t have to be Instagram-worthy—it just has to work, and I’m here to show you how.

Why your students will love your Classroom Calm Corner

My students love our calm corner, and it’s always in high demand. One of the most common questions I hear after giving work instructions is, “Can I please sit in the calm corner?” It’s become a favourite spot for flexible seating and emotional reset.

Whether you’re planning to introduce a calm corner in your home or classroom, this guide is for you. Setting one up can feel overwhelming at first, but trust me—it’s worth it. Once it is set up, you will be able to spend more time spreading kindness in the classroom. To make it easier, I’ve created this guide to help you set up a calm corner in your classroom on a budget.

Classroom Calming Corner Location

I’ve found that the most important part of creating a calm corner is choosing the right location. It needs to be in a spot that’s free from distractions—easier said than done in a busy classroom, I know, but it’s definitely achievable! I recommend starting with an actual corner of your classroom. Look for the quietest spot and make it feel more private.

To separate the calm corner from the rest of the room, I use a bookshelf that sticks out from the wall. This creates three walls for the space, giving it a cozy, enclosed feel. It’s also important to position your calm corner somewhere within view of your desk or group work area so you can keep an eye on students while they use it.

My classroom came with a library shelf that works perfectly for this, but if yours doesn’t, there are plenty of affordable options. Amazon has some great choices, and you might find something at Kmart, Target, or even second-hand stores. It’s definitely worth keeping an eye out for one that fits your space and budget!

Classroom Book Shelves

I also loves these fabric storage containers

Calm Corner Books

Now that you have a bookshelf for your calming corner, you are going to need some books. Click here for a list of my favourite kindness-promoting books that would work perfectly for this space.

Here are a list of social-emotional regulation specific books that would be a great addition for this spaces

SEL Books for your Calm Corner

• Impulsive Ninja: A Social, Emotional Book For Kids About Impulse Control for School and Home
• The Little Book of Emotions
• Find Your Calm: A Mindful Approach To Relieve Anxiety And Grow Your Bravery
• Listening to My Body
• I Can Do Hard Things: Mindful Affirmations for Kids
• Breathe Like a Bear: 30 Mindful Moments for Kids to Feel Calm and Focused Anytime, Anywhere

The Color Monster: A Story About Emotions deserves it’s own section. This book is perfect for understanding zones of regulation. There are even plush toys that go perfectly with this book.

Be sure to check out the other books in the series

Calm Corner Activities: What to Include to Help Students Self-Regulate

Ok let’s keep this simple, we don’t want to overdo it. Personally, I think the two most essential activities to have in your calm corner are a selection of fidgets and colouring in pages.

Fidgets are great for helping students release extra energy and reduce stress. The repetitive motions can be really calming and give them something physical to focus on while they process their feelings. For some kids, having something to do with their hands can even improve their concentration. It’s like giving their brains a break while their bodies stay engaged. Fidgets also provide sensory input, which can be really grounding for children who feel overwhelmed. Fidgets that are quiet to play with are a must.

Here are some of my favourite fidgets that work well in the classroom:

Colouring is another great option for a calm corner. It’s a quiet activity that encourages mindfulness, as students have to focus on what they’re doing in the moment. I’ve found that colouring can really help bring their heart rates down and reduce any feelings of stress or anxiety. Plus, it’s a creative outlet that doesn’t require words—perfect for students who might not be ready to talk about their emotions.

I love using these colouring pages:

• Cute Animals – Bold and Easy Coloring Book
• 100 Bold Coloring Book

Self-Regulate with Breathing Exercises in your Calm Corner

Breathing and stretching exercises are an amazing addition to any calm corner. They give students simple, effective tools to calm their minds and bodies. I’ve created a free PDF packed with kids’ yoga poses and breathing exercises that you can use in your classroom. You can print the pages and bind them into a book for students to flip through, or hang them on the wall as posters for quick reference. This freebie is available when you sign up for my email list by filling out the form below!

If you’re looking for something more interactive, I also have a PowerPoint or MP4 version of these exercises, which you can purchase from my Teachers Pay Teachers store here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Kids-Yoga-Pose-Breathing-Exercise-Guide-PDF-PPT-MP4-12451471 These are perfect for guiding students step-by-step through the exercises in a visual, engaging way.

Simple but Effective Calming Corner Posters

Breathing exercises are a great way to help students slow down, focus, and regulate their emotions. Plus, they’re easy to implement and can benefit kids of all ages!

Extra Touches to Make Your Calm Corner Even Better

To take your calm corner to the next level, consider adding some optional extras that can help create a more inviting, comfortable space for your students. Here are a few ideas:

• Plushies and Weighted Toys: These are a must-have in any calm corner! They’re perfect for social-emotional learning and can help students regulate their emotions. I use these exact toys in my classroom, and they’ve become classroom essentials.

• A Soft Mat or Rug: Adding a cozy mat or rug instantly makes your calm corner feel more comfortable and calming. It’s a great space for kids to sit, relax, and unwind.

• A Teepee: A teepee or a similar small enclosed space can create a more intimate, calming atmosphere. It’s perfect for reading, quiet reflection, or just taking a break from the rest of the class.

• Comfy Cushions: These are affordable, easy to find, and incredibly comfortable! Cushions add a layer of coziness to your calm corner, making it a welcoming spot for kids to snuggle up and relax.

These optional extras can make a big difference in your Calm Corner’s effectiveness and help students feel more at ease. Plus, they’re easy to find and budget-friendly!

Wrapping Up: Creating the Perfect Calm Corner

Setting up a calm corner in your classroom is one of the best ways to support students’ social-emotional learning, emotional regulation, and overall well-being. With the right location, essential tools like fidgets and breathing exercises, and a few optional extras, you can create a space where students feel safe, calm, and ready to refocus.

Remember, a calm corner doesn’t have to break the bank! By using affordable options and simple strategies, you can create an inviting space that works for your classroom and your budget. Whether you’re adding plushies, cushions, or breathing posters, each element you include will make the calm corner more effective for your students.

If you’re ready to get started, don’t forget to check out my free kids’ yoga and breathing exercises PDF, and take a look at the additional resources in my Teachers Pay Teachers store for even more inspiration.

Creating a calm corner is an investment in your students’ emotional growth and a calmer, more focused classroom. Start small, keep it simple, and watch the benefits unfold in your classroom!

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