Creating Calm: Setting Up An Effective Cooldown Space

When I was a child, I was renowned for my love of building blanket forts—those magical secret hideaways crafted from a couple of chairs and heaps of blankets. Inside those cozy nooks, I found a world of my own, a tranquil sanctuary right in the middle of the living room or my bedroom. Whether I was lost in a book, tinkering with toys, or simply observing my family from my hidden fortress, it was my escape—a place where I could unwind and be myself, undisturbed. Little did I know, those blanket forts were my personal cooldown spaces long before the term even existed.

A cooldown space is a dedicated area designed to provide a calming and supportive environment for individuals, particularly neurodivergent children, who may need a break from sensory overload, stress, or overwhelming emotions. These spaces are crafted to offer comfort and tranquility, helping children regain control over their emotions and behaviors. By retreating to a cooldown space, children can self-regulate more effectively, promoting emotional resilience and better focus once they return to their regular activities.

Creating a cooldown space at home begins with selecting a quiet and low-traffic area where the child feels safe and secure. Parents should focus on creating a calm atmosphere by choosing soothing colors and soft lighting, perhaps using lamps or fairy lights instead of harsh overhead lights. Comfortable seating, such as bean bags or cushions, is also essential to help the child feel relaxed. Including sensory tools like fidget toys, stress balls, or weighted blankets can provide tactile stimulation that aids in calming the child. Personalizing the space with favorite items or decorations can give the child a sense of ownership, enhancing their connection to the space.

In a classroom setting, teachers can set up a cooldown space by designating a small corner or section of the room for this purpose. This area should be equipped with soft seating and sensory tools similar to those used at home. Visual aids, such as emotion charts or calming technique cards, can be added to help students communicate their feelings and needs. It’s essential for teachers to establish clear rules about the space’s use, ensuring students understand its purpose is for calming and regrouping. This setup not only supports individual students but can also contribute to a more harmonious classroom environment.

Regardless of the setting, maintaining minimal clutter and ensuring safety is paramount. For both parents and teachers, involving children in the design process can be beneficial. Allowing them to select elements for the cooldown space ensures it meets their preferences and needs, thereby increasing its effectiveness. With thoughtful planning and personalization, a cooldown space can become a vital resource for helping neurodivergent children manage their emotions and sensory experiences, fostering greater overall well-being.

If you have any more questions on cooldown spaces, educational, advocacy, or support for your Neurodivergent Child, please contact me at alan@TeachThespectrum.com

Cool down space for home… And the classroom…