Creating A Safe Space For Kids: Emotional Regulation
When your child is feeling sad, anxious, or angry, being in a safe place is the first step to helping your child regulate their feelings. If they feel safe, then they can focus their attention on managing their current emotional distress. Tips to create a safe space for your child:
★ Violence free - spoken words are soft and calm, and there is no unwanted physical contact.
★ Predictability - create a regular routine within the space.
★ Organized - a clutter-free area where items are kept in the same place every day.
★ Clean - the space is free of excess dirt, dust, garbage, and clutter.
★ Reduce or control sensory stimulation- low and calming sounds (nature or white noise); gentle and soothing smells (lavender); cuddly and soft blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals; and natural lighting.
★ Memory - through routine, create a positive memory association with the space.
★ Accessibility - the space should be freely accessible to your child.
Although you may want to think of your entire home as a safe space for your children, the reality is that some areas of your home may feel safer and calmer than others based on the criteria above. Here is some additional advice for you as the parent:
๏ Focus on what you are willing to do on a regular basis so you do not feel resentful. Creating a safe space needs to be intentional and takes daily effort.
๏ Making little “safe nooks” in your home for your child may be more manageable and realistic.
๏ Include a few calming activities for your child to do in the “safe nook.” See our free calming activities handout.
๏ Have a conversation with your child talking about these “safe nooks.” Discuss the purpose of the “safe nooks” and create guidelines for their use.
๏ Since actions speak louder than words, create your own “safe nook” and let your child see you using it regularly. A corner in your bedroom or living room with a cozy chair and blanket makes for a great “safe nook.”
As parents, we have the opportunity to create a home where the whole family thrives and feels more calm, happy, and at peace. Creating these “safe nooks” is just one way to make your home your happy place.
Want to learn more check out My Team Tangerine Podcast Season 1 Episode 3 talking about qualities of a safe space.