🌿 Calm Corner Starter Kit
EYFS + KS1 · Setup Guide + Resources · Print-ready
What is a Calm Corner?
A Calm Corner is a designated space in the classroom where children can go when they feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally dysregulated. It is a positive, non-punitive space — not a time-out area.
Setting Up Your Calm Corner
What you'll need:
- A quiet corner or small space away from high-traffic areas
- A small chair, cushion, or floor mat
- Soft lighting (fairy lights or a lamp) if possible
- A visual feelings chart (included below)
- Calm-down strategy cards (included below)
- Optional: fidget tools, stress ball, colouring sheets, headphones with calm music
Step-by-step setup:
- Choose a corner of the room that's away from noise and distractions.
- Add a comfortable place to sit.
- Print and laminate the visual cards from this pack and display them at child height.
- Introduce the space to the class using the lesson plan below.
- Establish and model the rules together with the class.
Introduction Lesson Plan
Duration: 20–30 minutes
Teacher Script:
"Today I want to show you something special. This corner of our classroom is going to be our Calm Corner — a place where anyone can go when they need a moment to feel better."
"It's not for being in trouble — it's for when feelings get too big and we need a quiet moment. Even I might use it sometimes!"
"Let's all look at what's in our Calm Corner and talk about when we might use it."
"Who can think of a time when they might need a calm moment during the day?"
Calm Corner Rules (display on wall):
Visual Cue Cards (Print & Laminate)
Display these at child height in the Calm Corner:
Take a Breath
Breathe in for 4... hold for 4... out for 4.
Squeeze & Release
Squeeze your hands tight, then let go slowly.
Name It
Look at the feelings chart. Which one am I?
Shake It Out
Shake your hands and arms gently to release tension.
Draw It
Pick up a pencil and draw how you feel.
Count to 10
Count slowly to 10 in your head. Then decide what to do.
Parent Communication Letter
Dear Parent/Carer,
We are excited to introduce our new Calm Corner — a special space in our classroom designed to support children with their emotional wellbeing.
The Calm Corner is a positive, non-punitive space where children can take a moment to regulate their emotions using breathing exercises, visual prompts, and simple calming activities. It is always used by choice, never as a punishment.
Research shows that when children learn to recognise and manage their emotions, they are better equipped to learn, form friendships, and navigate challenges. We are committed to supporting the whole child — academically and emotionally.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to speak with us.
With warmest regards,
[Your Name & Class]
- Model using the Calm Corner yourself to reduce stigma.
- Check in briefly with the child after they leave the corner.
- If a child uses the corner frequently, consider whether additional support is needed.
- Refresh the resources and add new ones as children become familiar with them.