Calm-Down Corner

Supports this milestone

• manages emotions with increasing independence. — Head Start ELOF
• manages emotions with the support of familiar adults. — Head Start ELOF

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Materials

• A small cozy space with cushions
• Calming tools (soft toy, breathing card, picture of calm strategies)

Steps

• Visit the corner together when everyone is calm.
• Practice one breathing strategy, like "smell the flower, blow the candle."
• Show how to hug the soft toy or look at the strategy cards.
• Explain that the corner is a place to feel better, never a punishment.

Variations

• Make a personal "calm kit" the child helps choose.

Differentiation

• For beginners, an adult sits and co-regulates in the corner.
• For older children, let them name which strategy they will try.

Accessibility

• Honor sensory needs (dim light, quiet, a weighted item) and use visual strategy cards.

Safety

• Keep the child in sight and stay close during big feelings.

Practices these skills

• Manages Strong Feelings

Evidence

• Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs (4th ed.) — National Association for the Education of Young Children · 2022 · National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
• Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) — U.S. Office of Head Start · 2015 · U.S. Department of Health and Human Services