What is a reset corner?
The aim of the reset corner is to provide a safe space for children to take a break and reset when they are experiencing feelings that are tricky for them to manage at that moment. Whether at home or in the classroom, children often encounter situations that can overwhelm their developing coping mechanisms.
Calm corner versus reset corner?
Reset spaces may be similar to ‘calm down corners’ you’ve used or heard about in the past. We use the word ‘reset’ to reflect that students may use the space in any type of emotion, for example they may feel tired or sad and need a quick break / reset – it’s not always about being calm. It’s a simple re-frame of language but can be a powerful one and sends an important message to students about when to use this space, and that it’s not always about ‘calming down’.
Where to set up a reset space
Try to choose a space in the classroom or home, where there is less foot traffic. Unfortunately this is not always possible, depending on the space available but this is where we need to get creative and go for good enough, not perfect.
This could be in the corner of the classroom or a quiet section of the lounge room could work well. It can sometimes be helpful to use available furniture to create a “nook” where students can feel safe and reset. For example, positioning a small bookshelf at an angle can enhance the sense of seclusion and safety. Where possible provide some comfortable seating options like a bean bag or a rug with cushions.
Introducing the reset space
When introducing the reset space, dedicate a specific time to discuss its purpose with the child/children. This could be during a classroom circle time or a family meeting at home. Choose a time when the child/children are well-regulated where possible. Explain what the space is, when it should be used, why it is beneficial, and how to use it properly. Use this opportunity to discuss examples of situations when someone might feel the need to use the space, such as feeling overwhelmed by noise, needing a break from group activities, feeling frustrated or annoyed, or maybe needing a reset because they are tired.
This is a good time to discuss reset space expectations (in the next section). For students who may lose or find it difficult to use verbal language to request a break when experiencing big feelings, it can be helpful to introduce a visual card that represents the reset space. Beware when introducing a reset space, initially, there will be a novelty period when it may feel like every student wants to use the space (if using it in the classroom or for siblings at home), however, overtime you will find that the students who need it will be the ones who are accessing the space.
It’s also beneficial to introduce visual aids for children who might struggle with verbal communication during intense emotions. These could include pictures or cards that symbolise the reset space, allowing children to show these when they need to use the area.
Here is an example of a script you might use:
- Educator/Parent: “Hello everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about something really special we’re adding to our classroom/home. It’s called a ‘reset space.’ This is a quiet area where you can go if you feel like you need a little break. Just like sometimes we take a break after running to catch our breath, sometimes our minds need a break too.”
- Explain the purpose “Sometimes, things can get a bit overwhelming, we might feel a little too much noise, or maybe we are really tired and need a quick rest and that’s perfectly okay. This Reset Space is here to help you reset. It’s a place where you can go to take a few minutes to yourself and come back feeling refreshed and ready to learn and play.”
- When to use the space “You can use this space when you’re feeling overwhelmed by noise, need a break from playing or working with others, or if you’re feeling frustrated or even a bit tired and just need to pause. It’s okay to feel these things, all feelings are important and it’s great to take time to take care of your feelings.”
- Benefits of the reset space “This space is beneficial because it helps you handle big feelings. It’s a spot just for you to get some peace and quiet and make it easier to deal with what you’re feeling.”
- Using the space “When you use the reset space, remember it’s for quiet time. You can sit, look at a book, or just take some deep breaths to help yourself calm down. We have some tools there too, like cushions to sit on, and some quiet toys that can help you feel better.”
- Introduce visual aids “We also have some pictures and cards that show what the Reset Space is for and to request time to use the space when needed. These are especially helpful if you find it hard to tell others when you need a break. Just show one of these cards, and we’ll know what you need.”
- Expectations “Let’s talk about what we expect when using the reset space: Only one person can be there at a time, so everyone has a chance to use it if they need it. We use the space to focus on ourselves and not with toys that are meant for playtime. We keep our time in the space short, about five minutes, so others can use it too if they need it. At the end of the 5 minutes I will come back to check in on you and see how you are feeling”
- Addressing the novelty “I know this space might seem really interesting and many of you might want to try it out at first. That’s completely normal and okay! Over time, we’ll all get used to it being here, and those who really need a moment to reset can have their space when they need it.”
- Encourage open communication “Always remember, it’s okay to need a break and it’s okay to use the reset space whenever you feel like you need to. Just like we take turns in games, we’ll take turns using our special quiet space.”
- Classroom discussion “Do you have any questions or ideas about our new Reset Space? What are some other reasons you think you might want to use this space? What kind of tools do you think would be helpful in this space? Let’s talk about it!”
Establishing clear expectations
To ensure the reset space is used effectively and respectfully, establish clear guidelines with the children’s input. This collaborative approach helps children feel involved and responsible for the space. Consider implementing the following rules:
- 1 person at a time
- A space to focus on yourself
- A place to reset your body
- Where possible let a teacher / caregiver know before you use the space (e.g. verbal language, a visual, maybe a special signal the teacher/ parent will understand e.g. thumb down)
- Set a time limit (e.g. 5 mins). Can reassess at the end of 5 mins if the student needs longer. You may consider having a 5-minute visual timer
- Respectful of items. All items within the space should be treated with care, and the area should be left tidy for the next user. Items in the space are tools not toys, and should be used to help support our regulation.
What kind of visuals can I use in the reset space
See below for some possible posters / visuals displays to put in a reset corner. Be careful not to clutter the space – as sometimes too much visual information can be overwhelming for students to focus on when they are experiencing big emotions.
- Feelings check-in chart: Helps children identify and articulate their emotions.
- Body signals chart: Assists in connecting physical sensations with emotional states. E.g. racing heart and brain not working, I might be feeling frustrated.
- Breathing and stretching prompts: Visual cues for deep breathing exercises and gentle stretches to help the students regulate.
- Reset poster and cards: Step-by-step process for using the space, and cards for children to signal when they need a break.
Equipping the reset space
Below are some tools you may like to add to your reset corner:
- Sequin pillows or pillow
- Headphones
- Timers – 1min, 5min
- Heavy blankets or toys (be aware of weighted items guidelines if using these tools)
- Different fidgets
- Flexible seating – cushions, bean bag, wobble cushion
- Stress ball
- Visual bottle
- Comforting book
- Different textured objects
- Self-massage tool
- Sunglasses
- Small tent
- Pencils/paper
- Stacking blocks
- Small puzzle
Conclusion
A reset space can be a game changer for a lot of children. It provides a designated area to process feelings in sometimes very busy environments, like classrooms. By involving children in the setup and governance of the space, they learn valuable lessons in self-management and regulation.
Questions
If you have any questions or need further assistance in implementing visual schedules, please do not hesitate to get in touch here or at sophia.occupationaltherapy@gmail.com.
