Calm room, quiet space, reflection area, emotional wellbeing zone – whatever we call them in our setting, the purpose of these environments is the same: to provide access to a designated quiet, calm space where individuals can recover and feel safe when they are distressed, overwhelmed or dysregulated.
However we choose to use them, it is vital that we are clear about what a calm space is not: it should not be used in a punitive way or be considered some type of ‘naughty corner’; nor should it be a place to seclude or hold individuals against their will. When misused or misinterpreted like this, it is easy to see how calm spaces can trigger negative connotations and facilitate poor practice.
As practitioners and professionals, it is our responsibility to ensure that calm spaces and rooms are designed and used with the needs of the individual in mind at all times.
Whether we work in a school, health, or social care setting, we sometimes support individuals who, at times, can become dysregulated or distressed and who may need somewhere peaceful to reset and recalibrate. Calm rooms and spaces provide the opportunity for individuals to remove themselves from their immediate environment, giving them the emotional and physical space to recover.
Whilst not all settings have a separate room (it may be a corner of another room, such as a classroom), the idea is that there is a safe, supportive place available, where an individual can go to either self- or co-regulate, depending on their needs. As professionals, we can often spot the early signs of distress and can interrupt the conflict spiral by offering the opportunity to move to a calm space; at other times, it may be we have to react quickly when we can see that someone is already in a heightened state and in need of a safe alternative until they are ready to re-engage.
Whether the use of the calm room is planned or unplanned, the priority is keeping the individual safe and offering the support they need in that moment.
Every setting is different and if space is at a premium, it might be the case that there is no capacity for a dedicated calm room. And even in situations where a quiet room is set up in part of a building, there is no guarantee that it will be free when we need to support an individual. Often, these are dual function spaces and are in high demand. Whilst a designated room is ideal, we can only work within the limits of our building and the needs of other staff members and individuals we support.
Download our guide to setting up a calm room.
However, if we are planning on establishing or redesigning a calm room within our organisation, there are some key factors to consider. The goal is to create an inviting, comfortable space that is both functional yet uncluttered. The individuals who will use the space may have sensory needs that we need to take into account in the design process. For example, what is the lighting like? Does it lend itself to the creation of a calm, peaceful environment? How about the seating? Are there chairs, rugs, cushions or beanbags available (depending on our context)? What colour are the walls? Can you hear external noise? Thick walls are preferable, especially for those who are hypersensitive to sound.
It is also worth considering whether we have the right tools and resources in the room to encourage self-regulation. The best way to decide this is by knowing the individuals in our setting and the kinds of things that are most effective for them, for example fidget toys, bubbles, colouring books, blankets, puzzles or playdough. What works in one setting might not work in another. To avoid clutter or damage to property, it might also be the case that we need to bring in and remove equipment as necessary.
If we are not sure whether we are on the right lines, we can seek feedback from the individuals in our care, asking them what they think. After all, the space has got to work for them, so it is always useful to invite comments and suggestions. Alternatively, we can try the space out for ourselves. Do we feel calm and regulated? What improvements could we make? It is incredibly useful to put ourselves in an individual’s shoes and see things from their perspective.
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