A Cozy Space to Rally for Learning

Funded Sep 18, 2024

Since I have set up a "calming corner" in November, it has been a popular place. I added some ear protection head sets, and those are often in use. I have three students in particular who are sometimes distressed by noisy, chaotic environments. Sometimes, they feel panic and come to tears over it. We now have a place for them to feel safe and recover. It has made a real difference for them in particular. Often, they will ask for it just before dismissal, which is the loudest, most chaotic time of the day. They wait for all the noise and "traffic" to clear, and it helps them feel better about their school day.

At first, the novelty of it made it popular with all the kids, which was important. It wouldn't work if there was any shame associated with using it. There are still many who use it for a place to focus better. They bring work on a clipboard, or a book to read with them. We have a Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum, and have been making many connections with the calming corner. There are anchor charts in there which list strategies for managing stress that come from our SEL lessons.”

With gratitude,

Mr. Costello