Creating a Calm Down Corner in your classroom can feel like a challenge when you’re short on space. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with a few compact and mobile ideas that are both effective and space-friendly!
Whether you’re a classroom teacher or a school counselor on the move, these options are versatile enough to work even in the smallest areas. Let’s dive into three calming strategies that will help you create a mindful space no matter the size of your room.
Looking for more Calm Down Corner tips?
If you’re wondering how to introduce the Calm Down Corner effectively or what specific calming tools to add, check out these other posts:
- Introducing Calm Down Corners in Your Classroom: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Must-Have Tools for an Effective Calm Down Corner
These posts will help you get started and offer additional strategies for supporting your students’ emotional needs!
3 Calm Down Corner Ideas For Small Spaces
1. Calm Down Caddy
If you’re a teacher, you likely already have one of those handy plastic caddies in your room. Well, they’re perfect for creating a portable Calm Down Corner! Stock it with essential calming tools like fidget toys, stress balls, breathing exercise cards, and more. To make it even more effective, print out Calm Down strategies on individual cards and attach them to a card ring. Students can flip through and choose the strategy that works best for them. The best part? This caddy is portable, allowing you to move it around the classroom as needed. Check out the full guide on how to create a Calm Down Caddy here.
What to include:
- Fidget toys
- Breathing exercise cards
- Small stress-relief items like putty or a mini hourglass
- Sensory strips or textures
Why it works: The Calm Down Caddy is a compact, versatile option that’s perfect for teachers who want a flexible solution. You can take it to different areas in the classroom, making it accessible for students in various learning zones.
2. Calm Down Pencil Case
Even smaller than a caddy, a pencil case can be transformed into a mobile Calm Down Corner! This is perfect for counselors or teachers who need to move between classrooms or schools. While it doesn’t hold as much as a caddy, a pencil case can still fit strategic items like a small hourglass and a few carefully selected fidget toys.
What to include:
- A small hourglass
- Mini fidget toys (think finger spinners, stretchy bands)
- Sensory stickers or strips on the outside for instant tactile feedback
Why it works: This pencil case version is extremely portable and can be taken anywhere—perfect for counselors who travel between classrooms or even schools. Its compact size also makes it discreet, allowing students to use it without drawing too much attention.
3. Wall Hanger with Pockets
If you do have a bit of wall space available, a hanging organizer with pockets can be a lifesaver. Use each pocket to store different calming tools—one pocket for fidgets, another for stress balls, and a larger pocket for calming strategy cards. While it’s not mobile like the caddy or pencil case, it’s a great way to keep your Calm Down Corner organized and accessible in one spot.
What to include:
- Different calming tools in each pocket (fidget toys, stress balls, etc.)
- Calming strategy cards in a larger pocket
- Optional: Use color-coded pockets for specific emotions or strategies
Why it works: This option is perfect if you want to keep things neat and organized. The downside? It’s not mobile. However, it’s a great solution if you have a permanent spot for your Calm Down Corner in your classroom. Plus, the visual organization helps students independently choose what they need.
Final Thoughts
Each of these Calm Down Corner ideas can be tailored to fit the needs of your students and your space. Whether you’re working with a small classroom or moving between schools as a counselor, there’s a solution here for everyone. Portable options like the Calm Down Caddy or pencil case are ideal for on-the-go use, while the wall hanger offers a more permanent, organized setup. Pick what works best for your situation and watch as your students learn to self-regulate and find calm, even in the smallest of spaces!
Happy reading!
Prima at LittleYellowStar
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