While parents today may have gotten their fair share of timeouts when they were little, this traditional form of discipline isn't always the best option. Of course, there are different alternatives to timeouts, like redirecting behaviour or encourageing children to meditate, but the use of calming corners are on the rise [1] in early childhood development circles.
In short, a calming corner — or a calm-down corner [2] — is a dedicated space meant for young children to wind down and process their emotions, whether they're angry, upset, or overstimulated. Designed to help kids regain control over their feelings, these safe spaces can come in many forms and generally contain comforting or soothing materials.
Great for the home or the classroom, calming corners typically include a comfy place to sit, toys that promote relaxation and reflection, as well as books and posters to help children navigate their feelings. Parents who are interested in creating their own calming corner can scroll ahead to get a look at helpful products that will make your little ones find peace amid even the most catastrophic meltdown.
Big Joe Bean Bag
Doesn't the Big Joe Bean Bag in Sapphire [4] ($35) look so inviting? We have a feeling your kiddos will actually enjoy decompressing in this little slice of heaven.
NK SUPPORT Bean Bag Sofa
We're kinda vibing with this NK SUPPORT Bean Bag Sofa [5] ($37). We're loving the yellow!
Crate & Barrel Adjustable Bean Bag Chair
Crate & Barrel's Adjustable Bean Bag Chair [6] ($149) is available in three colours and can be laid flat thanks to a pair of helpful straps.
Time-In ToolKit
Parents can score a ton of fun accessories for their children's calming corner thanks to the Time-In ToolKit [7] ($59), which provides caregivers with posters, mindfulness cards, and more!
Calm Down Corner Feelings Thermometer Poster Bundle
The Calm Down Corner Feelings Thermometer Poster Bundle [8] ($15) provides parents with PDF versions of a calm down corner guide, posters, and sheets that help kids work through their feelings.
Basic Self-Regulation Box
Get kids recentreed by investing in a Playdough Sensory Busy Box [9] ($27), which includes playdough, wooden blocks, glitter foam balls, rocks, and more!
Ready, Set, Calm: Calm Down Kit
Created by a special education teacher, the Ready, Set, Calm: Calm Down Kit [10] ($22) includes a mini notepad and pencil, fidget toys, and scented bubbles.
Pinch Me Therapy Dough
The sweet smell of lavender in this Pinch Me Therapy Dough [11] ($25) will certainly help calm stressed kiddos down.
Sitting Still Like a Frog Activity Book
Chock-full of mindfulness games and activities, Sitting Still Like a Frog Activity Book [12] ($11) has stickers, crafts, and colouring pages designed to make little ones feel zen.
A Kids Book About Anxiety
Leaving out helpful resources in your child's calming corner is key. Start with A Kids Book About Anxiety [13] ($20) and build your library from there.
I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness
Children can learn how to manage their mindfulness and make good choices by flipping through I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness [14] ($7).