Conscious Discipline Active Calming Center, Self Regulation, Children Learning Tool

All behavior is a form of communication. “Acting up,” “acting out” and physical restlessness often precede an emotional outburst, meltdown or even rage. Children need specific, actionable steps to begin to calm themselves down. (In the Conscious Discipline Brain State Model, this would mean moving to a higher brain state rather than sinking into a lower one.) The Active Calming Center is a multi-step tool that helps children channel big emotions and physical impulses in order to better manage their upset so they can return to an optimal learning state. The Active Calming Center provides nine specific physical and mental tasks of decreasing physicality. These activities begin with moving the major muscle groups, and then progress to crossing the midline, stretching, task accomplishment and deep belly breathing. These activities benefit typically developing children, yet they were designed with interventions that support children with special education needs, particularly those on the autism spectrum. 1. “Stomp it out” to harness the desire for physical movement 2. “Push the wall” for upper body, lower body and core muscle engagement 3. “Flex it out” arm curls for more large muscle movement 4. “Count it out” for a methodical activity with “pull and place” Velcro stars 5. “Trace the rainbow” for a textured, color-coded activity that crosses the midline 6. “Work Task” for a repetitive task that’s calming for disorganized children 7. “Yoga” to stretch, relax and oxygenate the muscles 8. “S.T.A.R. breathing” for three deep breaths with a pinwheel breathing tool 9. “Go to the Safe Place” to continue calming, as needed

• A disorganized brain is always disengaged from learning. The Active Calming Center guides children through nine physical and mental tasks that help them calm down and cooperate.
• Use as a precursor to the Safe Place, a standalone brain break, a transition helper or an “anytime” calming strategy. Helpful for ages 3-12.
• Essential for those with special needs, autism and for active Pre-K and Kindergarten bodies. Integral to your rage prevention program.
• Bright colors, varying textures and simple tasks encourage success and engagement, particularly for younger children and those with special needs. You can use this center to help focus or refocus attention as a Brain Break. It is also essential for children who require a little more calming before they’re ready to go to the Safe Place.