Creating a relaxation area in a preschool classroom

A place to relax and chill out is fundamental in every preschool classroom as there are students with different needs. All children need a place to calm down in stressful situations and a corner made just for that would be one of the best options. Here, I would suggest some ways in which we can create a relaxation area or a comfort area in a preschool classroom.

Keep it simple: Do not keep too many stuff as it will not be a conducive environment if it is cluttered with different and unnecessary materials. Try to make it as simple as possible and keep different toys and materials on different days.

Make it cozy: Have a relaxing chair, most probably a rocking one or a bean bag chair where kids can go and sit. Else, a rug also would do if you add few pillows/ cushions and stuffed toys.

Have appropriate toys: Having appropriate toys like yoga balls, balance boards, stress balls, sensory bottles, fiddle toys, glow lights, fidget toys etc will be very helpful when it comes to releasing stress and getting them cool down after a meltdown. Additionally, mini and short story books can be added. All these items need not be in the area all at once and can be put in separate boxes/containers and use as necessary.

Have correct Visuals: Having more toy and materials doesn’t mean that it is the perfect place for relaxation. We also need to teach kids how to cope with different situations and explain to them about different feelings. For this, there should be visual displays in the relaxation area for teachers to use with students such as relaxation techniques. It will remind them what they should do when they feel overwhelmed, upset, or angry.

Tell them how to use: we should not allow the kids to use the relaxation area in any way they want. They should be taught some rules to be followed when using this area at the beginning of the school year. For this wall, displays would be very useful.

No matter how small, big or fancy the area is, it should be visible to the teachers and kids should be always monitored when they are in the relaxation area. Be creative and keep on changing and adapting the area to your student needs throughout the year.