Self-regulation, or the ability to control one’s emotions while they are high, is a learned skill. When a child’s brain is developmentally prepared to self-regulate, similar to when they are taught to tie their shoes after they possess the necessary fine motor skills, they can learn various techniques and methods that suit them. Consider what helped you the last time you felt angry, ignored, anxious, or any other negative emotion. Did you step outside to get some fresh air? Did you engage in any meditation or yoga or take 10 deep breaths? Or did you go read in your favorite space? Each of us has developed a unique set of coping skills that we can employ to manage our emotions and get back to a more neutral or optimistic frame of mind. Kids are no different!
The purpose of a calming corner is to provide a child with a safe place to go in a classroom when they feel their emotions are out of control or running too high and they need to regain emotional and physical control. These spaces are equipped with comforting objects and soothing materials that can promote mindfulness, breathing, and reflection.
Mrs. Esparza’s PK-4 class has a Safe Space/Calm Down Corner for little cardinals to use. These two littles have BIG emotions and they both found their way to the Calming Corner/Safe Space on their own. They were so engaged showing and talking to each other about their feelings books. 
