My class is a mild/moderate special education class full of amazing kids. Most of my students qualify as having a specific learning disability. Others are on the Autism Spectrum or have ADHD. Many of my students have some significant difficulties regulating their emotions.
My students have beautiful hearts, but struggle with controlling their bodies.
Social emotional learning is a big part of my instruction. My learning to self regulate their emotions, my students will be better able to learn and cope in the classroom and in life.
My Project
For the last couple of years, I have incorporated large, appliance boxes into my classroom as a calming, cozy space. All of my students benefit at some time from a few minutes of "alone" time. This may be because they are feeling pressure from teachers and assignments. Perhaps, they had a rough morning with a parent or sibling. Sometimes they just need a few minutes away from a classmate. Several of my students are dealing with anxiety and just need a place to calm themselves.
My students will benefit from having a permanent calming area and more social emotional instruction.
The appliance boxes that I have used, fill the need, but don't last long. They tear up easily. A strong, sturdy box will be wonderful! Part of learning to regulate emotions is learning to identify how you are feeling. I will incorporate the SchKIDules Feelings Magnet Pack when working with students to describe their feelings. The other materials will be beneficial in helping me learn more ways to help my students on their journey to self-regulation.
More than a third of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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