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Creating calm corners for self-regulation in early education
May
*the Nook, from Community Playthings
Why do children experience sensory overwhelm?
All forms of information arrive through our senses, and the way that we process this input, make sense of it, and respond to our environment is highly individualised. From the first moment of the day, children are exposed to constant stimulation which makes demands on their attention, emotions, and space. For each of the senses, there is a cap on the amount of input the child can tolerate. For children with autism, self-regulation can be especially challenging, as they may experience heightened sensitivity to sensory input.
What happens when this cap is exceeded, and how do we support the child to recalibrate, plan their response, and regain confidence to try again? In classroom environments, providing a calming corner—a quiet, low-stimulation space—can offer children the opportunity to withdraw, reset, and begin to self-regulate when overwhelm sets in.
What is self-regulation?
Self-regulation is an essential skill which empowers children to manage strong emotions caused by sensory overload in the environment. A landmark study (Robson et al 2020) links self-regulation in early years to longitudinal life skills and improved health and social outcomes. A hallmark of inclusive practice is providing spaces in mainstream settings where self-regulation is possible, as all children experience the need for sensory rest and the opportunity to press reset.
What are calm corners?
An effective calm corner is more than just a cosy book area or a carpeted spot – it’s a sanctuary children can retreat to during moments of overwhelm. The child then has the agency to regulate in their own space and time, free from pressure.
Effective calm corners:
- Minimise sensory overload by reducing light intensity, blocking background noise, and limiting distractions.
- Ensure safety and provide a sense of security with a physically robust design.
- Choose harmonious gentle curves over sharp edges to create a soothing and tactile environment. Colour palates that align with hues found in nature are restful and reduce visual demand.
What is the educator’s role?
Big emotions can be challenging for young children to navigate, and supporting them during difficult moments can be exhausting for everyone involved. A calm corner in your classroom gives children a safe place to manage their emotions.
By accompanying a child to this safe space, validating their feelings, and guiding them through their emotions, educators can help children develop critical self-regulation and social-emotional skills. In inclusive classrooms, calm corners become a vital component of the universal learning space, empowering children to address their emotions in a way that respects their individuality. Calm corners foster a sense of belonging and community.
