Whether a student has several adverse childhood experiences or is simply trying to navigate the challenges of interpersonal relationships or cope with world events, every student enters school with stressors that affect their ability to learn and engage. As educators, it is important that we give students tools and strategies to cope with these stressors. One tool that many have already adopted are “calming corners”, “chillout corners”, or “peace places”. These are classroom spaces designated to manage emotions, reduce stress, and regain focus.
NEA’s Disability Rights and Inclusion Cadre has developed a checklist to help support an effective space in your classroom.
In addition to their checklist, remember to also focus on pre-teaching and reminding students about transitioning to and from the space.
