Lesson Plan

Calm Corner Blueprint

Students will learn to identify the purpose of a calm corner, design and establish one in the classroom, and practice self-regulation strategies to manage emotions, fostering a supportive class culture and reducing disruptions.

Self-regulation supports students’ emotional well-being and focus. A classroom calm corner empowers students with tools to manage stress, promotes a positive learning environment, builds empathy, and reduces behavior disruptions.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Review and Prepare Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction to Calm Corners

5 minutes

Step 2

Why We Need Calm Spaces

7 minutes

Step 3

Design Your Zone Activity

10 minutes

Step 4

Setting Up Our Class Calm Corner

5 minutes

Step 5

Feel-Good Check-Out Cool-Down

3 minutes

Slide Deck

Why We Need Calm Spaces

Welcome everyone! Today we’ll learn why calm spaces help us stay happy and focused. Explain that this slide deck shows what calm spaces are, why we need them, and simple ways to feel better when we’re upset.

What is a Calm Space?

Ask students: “What do you think a calm space is?” Show the definition and highlight that it’s a special spot just for us to reset.

What is Stress?

Explain stress in kid-friendly terms. Ask: “Has anyone felt too nervous or too excited to think clearly?”

Signs of Stress

Review common body clues. Invite students to share which signs they notice in themselves.

Deep Breathing

Introduce deep breathing. Lead the class: count out loud together (4-2-6) as you breathe in, hold, and breathe out.

Move & Stretch

Stand up and model each stretch. Encourage students to follow along to release extra energy.

Positive Talk

Explain positive self-talk. Share examples and ask students to practice saying them quietly.

Our Calm Corner

Show items you’ll put in the calm corner. Explain guidelines: use when you feel stressed, stay quiet, respect others.

Lesson Plan

Calm Corner Blueprint

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Review and Prepare Materials

Step 1

Introduction to Calm Corners

Step 2

Why We Need Calm Spaces

Step 3

Design Your Zone Activity

Step 4

Setting Up Our Class Calm Corner

Step 5

Feel-Good Check-Out Cool-Down

Slide Deck

Why We Need Calm Spaces

What is a Calm Space?

What is Stress?

Signs of Stress

Deep Breathing

Move & Stretch

Positive Talk

Our Calm Corner

Activity

Cool Down

Can Calm Corners Change Class Vibes?

Natasha Desir