As a teacher with special education students, part of my job is to touch all souls and meet their needs as best as possible. One way I can meet the emotional needs of my students is to create a calm down corner.
A calm down corner would be extremely beneficial for students who have anxiety, worry about upcoming tests, get frustrated easily when they don't do as well on their assignments, or simply are having a rough start to the day and need to refocus on the task as hand.
For starters, comfort is key! I want them to see an area that is comfortable and welcoming to them. A colorful rug, inspirational pillows, and a beautiful, calming lamp will just scream, "All are welcome!"
Next we need to add accessories to help calm those students. Sequined pillows, bottles with lights and moving lava, and other hand sensory features are great for those students to use in times of calming down.
Don't forget a journal! Sometimes, students need to jot down exactly how they feel in the moment. Last, a table and baskets to house all of the things neatly is vital for a safe, calm corner.
My overall goal is to provide my students with a safe, comfortable place to go to let out their frustration, calm their anxiety, refocus on what they need to focus on, or to even let out a good cry. It is hard for some students to gather their composure by just going to the restroom or standing out in the hallway for a break. With this calm down corner, they will know that their teachers love and care about them and their well-being.
About my class
As a teacher with special education students, part of my job is to touch all souls and meet their needs as best as possible. One way I can meet the emotional needs of my students is to create a calm down corner.
A calm down corner would be extremely beneficial for students who have anxiety, worry about upcoming tests, get frustrated easily when they don't do as well on their assignments, or simply are having a rough start to the day and need to refocus on the task as hand.
For starters, comfort is key! I want them to see an area that is comfortable and welcoming to them. A colorful rug, inspirational pillows, and a beautiful, calming lamp will just scream, "All are welcome!"
Next we need to add accessories to help calm those students. Sequined pillows, bottles with lights and moving lava, and other hand sensory features are great for those students to use in times of calming down.
Don't forget a journal! Sometimes, students need to jot down exactly how they feel in the moment. Last, a table and baskets to house all of the things neatly is vital for a safe, calm corner.
My overall goal is to provide my students with a safe, comfortable place to go to let out their frustration, calm their anxiety, refocus on what they need to focus on, or to even let out a good cry. It is hard for some students to gather their composure by just going to the restroom or standing out in the hallway for a break. With this calm down corner, they will know that their teachers love and care about them and their well-being.
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