Peace Space

Peace Space: Create a space in the house that has calming activities and is a safe place to go when calmness is needed. Often adults will use time-out to punish a child for misbehavior. I’m suggesting making this a different experience to encourage self-awareness and self-regulation. 

At a calm time during the day, introduce your child to the peace space. This space can include a new stuffed animal just for this area, a favorite book to read/look at, a picture album or photos of nature, etc. At the beginning you may want to guide your child with some breathing exercises. Sometimes a mirror to watch themselves breath helps with this first step.

As time goes on, it is important that your child can add to the space and have input on what is included. But, remember to set a limit -- it shouldn’t be overcrowded or  over-stimulating. 

 When a child is upset and the need arises to calm down, take your child to the peace space. Language used is important. In a calm voice state, “It looks to me like the peace space will help you right now.  Let’s go together.” Gently but firmly guide your child to the space and walk away, saying, “Remember your breathing. When you are calmer, we can discuss the problem.” 

Following the approaches of several positive discipline routines, state what you want and walk away, without inviting a negotiation or argument. If your child comes out of the peace space, gently guide them back, without speaking and walk away, only stating “When you are calmer, we can discuss the problem.” 

The goal is to allow the child some privacy to bring his/her emotions and body under control. When approached this way, the child can learn to calm his/her body, mind and emotions by empowering them with the tools that work for him/her.

Suggestions to get you going: music, coloring or drawing,