Children with ADHD often experience emotional dysregulation, sudden meltdowns, or sensory overload. Creating a calm down corner for kids with ADHD provides a designated space where they can reset, regulate, and return to calm, without punishment or shame.
In this post, we?ll walk you through how to set one up at home using simple printable tools and sensory-friendly items.
? What Is a Calm Down Corner?
A calm-down corner is:
- A safe, quiet space
- Designed for emotional regulation
- Equipped with visual tools and calming items
- Accessible and non-punitive
It?s not a time-out?it?s a tool for learning emotional self-control.
?? What to Include in a Calm Down Corner for Kids with ADHD
1. Soft Seating
A bean bag, floor cushion, or tent for comfort and physical grounding.
2. Visual Emotion Cards
Help children identify and express how they feel.
? Use printable emotion faces or color-coded mood charts.
3. Fidget or Sensory Toys
Calming items like:
- Stress balls
- Putty or slime
- Weighted lap pad
These support tactile regulation and release tension.
4. Breathing & Coping Cards
Visual guides for deep breathing, grounding techniques, or ?5-4-3-2-1? exercises.
5. Timer or Routine Visual
Let them know how long they?ll be in the space.
? Use a sand timer or a printable countdown card.
? Printable Tools to Support Calm Down Spaces
You can enhance your setup with:
- Editable emotion charts
- Visual breathing exercises
- ?I need a break? cards
- Coping strategy posters
? Explore our Printable ADHD Tools
Want more on ADHD and emotional regulation?
? Developmental Therapy Associates ? How To Create a Self-Regulation Calming Corner In Your Home!
? Final Thought
A well-designed calm-down corner for kids with ADHD is not a luxury?it?s a necessity.
It empowers your child to pause, breathe, and try again. With the right printable tools and a little consistency, you?ll create a home environment that supports growth, not just control.
Start small. Stay compassionate. Your child is learning, and you?re doing great. ?
