Calming Corners: A Place to Reset and Refocus

This year, our guidance teacher, Mrs. Jansen-Koch, introduced an idea called Calming Corners. These are safe spaces in every classroom where students can go anytime they feel upset, frustrated, or need a break. Calming Corners give students a chance to reset and return to learning at their best.

A Calming Corner is a space where students can take a break while still staying connected to what’s happening in class. Mrs. Jansen-Koch explained that classrooms have them because we want students to remain part of the classroom community while also giving them tools to regulate their emotions. She shared that the idea came from seeing Calming Corners in other schools and wanting to bring the same benefit to Horizon.

Each classroom’s calming space has a variety of tools and activities, called fidgets, that students can use. Mrs. Jansen-Koch said she chose a variety because not every student likes the same things, and different tools work for different people. She also mentioned that a PTO grant helped fund the materials for the corners, making them possible for every classroom.

Calming Corners are important because students sometimes need a break, and that’s perfectly okay. A student might use the space when feeling frustrated with an assignment, having a rough day, or dealing with something from home or recess that keeps them from focusing. The goal is to help students regulate their emotions so they can return to learning ready and focused.

Mrs. Jansen-Koch hopes students remember that it’s okay to take a break and encourages them to find the regulation tools and strategies that work best for them. She also gave us advice for helping others: “Support each other. Be calm, be kind. The best way to help a student become calm is to be calm yourself.”

Calming Corners are a key part of creating a focused mind and body at Horizon. Next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or distracted, remember to visit a Calming Corner to release nervous energy and get back to learning. Thank you, Mrs. Jansen-Koch, for helping make Horizon an even better place!