Calm down corner printables are visual tools that help kids manage big emotions and practice self-regulation skills. These printable resources create dedicated spaces where kids can safely process feelings and learn coping strategies. Creating an effective calm down space requires thoughtful planning and the right visual supports. Moreover, parents often struggle to find age-appropriate materials that work for different learning styles and emotional needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Printable calm down tools offer immediate access to emotional regulation resources
- Visual supports help kids with special needs understand and practice coping strategies
- Customizable printables allow parents to match their child’s specific triggers and preferences
- Consistent use of calm down corners builds emotional intelligence over time
Table of Contents
Why Use a Calm Down Corner?
A calm down corner provides a safe, comforting space for kids to go when they feel overwhelmed by big emotions and need to self-regulate. Research shows that having a dedicated spot for calming down can help kids learn to manage stress and develop emotional resilience. In one study, teachers reported a 21% decrease in disruptive behaviors after implementing calm down corners in their classrooms.
The corner doesn’t have to be fancy – a small, cozy nook with some pillows, sensory objects, and visual supports can work wonders. The key is to make it inviting and equipped with tools to help kids center themselves. That’s where printables come in handy! You can easily find and print out images and prompts to hang up in your child’s calm down area.
Read more: Calming Corner Ideas for Kids
Must-Have Calm Down Corner Printables
Here are some of the most effective types of printables to include:
- Breathing exercises: Deep breathing is a proven way to lower stress. Print out simple visual guides like shape breathing or five-finger starfish breaths.
- Feeling faces: Help kids identify and name their emotions with charts that show facial expressions for common feelings like happy, sad, angry, scared, etc. I like this colorful set of emotion faces.
- Coping strategies: Visually remind kids of healthy ways to calm down, like counting, coloring, asking for a hug, or squeezing a stress ball. You can find tons of coping skills activities to print.
- Positive affirmations: Hang up encouraging phrases to help redirect anxious thoughts. Simple mantras like “I can handle this” or “I am safe” can be very soothing.
Example of a Calm Down Kit
One of my favorite tools to pair with a calming corner is a “calm down kit.” You can put together a box or bag of tactile objects and printed activities for your child to explore when they need to settle their mind and body. Here’s what I might include:
- Stress ball
- Fidget toy
- Glitter jar or calming bottle
- Coloring pages and crayons
- Emotion sorting game
- Yoga pose cards
- Soothing scents (lavender pouch, etc.)
The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and customize the kit to your child’s preferences. The hands-on element can help kids focus and ground themselves in the moment.
Read more: How to Regulate Emotions | 7 Tips for Parents
Using Calm Down Corner Printables Effectively
Of course, simply hanging up some printables won’t magically make all meltdowns disappear. It’s important to practice using the calm down corner with your child when they’re already in a peaceful state. Walk them through the different tools and strategies, and help them understand that the space is always available if they need it.
When your child does retreat to the corner, give them time and space to work through their feelings. Don’t try to rush them or force them to “snap out of it.” Trust that they are doing their best to regulate with the supports provided.
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Introduce the corner when your child is calm | Forcing your child to use the space as punishment |
| Practice the calming strategies together | Expecting the tools to work instantly |
| Allow your child to choose which printables to use | Cluttering the corner with too many visuals |
| Check in gently and offer support if needed | Invading your child’s space or demanding they “calm down” |
Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate tantrums and outbursts altogether; it’s to provide healthy outlets and coping mechanisms that your child can carry with them for life. With consistency and patience, calm down corner printables can be wonderful tools in that lifelong journey.
Tired of Emotional Meltdowns?
Goally’s Mood Tuner app has activities for kids with BIG emotions. Teach kids how to tune their mood with Goally. See fewer meltdowns.
The Mood Tuner app encourages kids to look inwards and identify their feelings, helping them understand what’s going on inside. Once they’ve recognized their emotions, they can choose from a 20+ activities designed to help them self-regulate and find their balance.
If you have a child who struggles with big emotions – whether they are neurodivergent or not – I highly encourage you to set up a calm down corner in your home. Experiment with different printables and supports until you find a combination that resonates with your child. And don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s therapists or teachers for more personalized recommendations. With the right tools and a lot of love, you can help your kid thrive through life’s emotional ups and downs.
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FAQs about Calm Down Corner Printables
What are calm down corner printables?
Calm down corner printables are downloadable resources like breathing exercises, emotion charts, and mindfulness coloring pages that help children manage their emotions.
How can I use calm down corner printables effectively?
Introduce the printables to your child, create a routine for using them, and support your child by guiding them through the activities.
Are calm down corner printables suitable for all ages?
While they are designed for kids ages 2-10, older children can also benefit from the calming activities and tools provided.
Where can I find free calm down corner printables?
You can download free calm down corner printables from various educational and parenting websites, including the one provided in this blog post.
Do calm down corner printables help with emotional regulation?
Yes, they provide structured activities and visual aids that guide children through calming techniques, improving their ability to manage emotions.
Hennah is an experienced writer and researcher, helping children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. As a blog contributor for Goally, she combines her deep understanding of neurodiversity with practical advice, offering valuable insights to parents and educators.
