School: Crestview Elementary
Grade: Preschool – 2nd grade
The Change Idea
At Crestview Elementary in Lincoln County School District, the system was not designed to support children’s social-emotional needs inside the classroom; instead, children often went to the principal’s office when they were struggling. The change idea was that each preschool and elementary grade teacher added a “cozy corner” in their classroom to support children experiencing big emotions.
Status of Change Idea: Adopted.
This is what adoption looked like for the school : “We will adapt this change to create more designated spaces, free of other distractions. We will add wholehearted counseling graphics for self-regulation, and we’ll add a music option.”
What are cozy corners?
A cozy corner is a small space in the classroom with soft materials such as a rug, beanbag, and stuffies. It may contain a poster with self-regulation strategies or visual cues paired with feeling words. Children elect to go to the cozy corner when they need a break, and may staff for a designated period of time, or indefinitely.
Process
Teachers partnered with each other to set up the cozy corners. The principal supported the teachers’ change idea and encouraged them to take data on its effectiveness.
Predicted Outcomes
- Reduced number of students being sent to the office
- Increased instructional time for all students.
- Students feel more emotionally supported and safe.
What actually happened?
- Students accessed the cozy corner both independently and upon teacher request.
- Trips to the principal’s office were reduced.
Key Learnings
- Clearly outlining the cozy corner’s purpose and guidelines prevented students from viewing it as a form of discipline or simply a recreational space.
- The inclusion of soft furnishings significantly enhanced the cozy corner’s effectiveness.
Guided Questions
Coming soon!