A Practical Guide to Calm Corners

This 10-page setup guide covers everything educators and families need to create and use a calm corner that works — what to put in it, where to place it, and how to teach children to use it proactively as a UDL tool for emotional regulation. Developed by Rachael Sicignano, M.A., BCBA, District PBIS Coach with 15+ years in special education. Includes a fillable Entry and Exit Plan worksheet for documenting classroom-specific procedures.

What You'll Learn

• The key distinction between a calm corner (voluntary, therapeutic) and a time-out (assigned, punitive)
• Four placement rules — including how to maintain teacher sightlines while providing student privacy
• A materials table matching specific regulation needs to suitable tools and sensory items
• How to teach students to use the calm corner during calm moments, including how to model it as a teacher
• How to avoid the most common pitfalls, including using the corner as a threat or recreational space

Who Is This For

BCBAs, PBIS coaches, and educators who are setting up or refining a classroom calm corner and want a step-by-step, research-informed guide they can put into practice right away.

📤 Share this resource with every educator and support staff you work with — available for free, no subscription required.