Creating a Cozy Classroom

Creating a cozy classroom is essential for making our students feel comfortable and ready to learn. A cozy classroom is warm and inviting and feels like a second home for our little ones. Here are some tips on how to make your classroom extra cozy:

Soft and Comfy Spaces
Include soft pillows, fuzzy blankets, and plush rugs in your classroom. These cozy textures can make reading time or nap time extra comfortable. During nap time, we turn out the lights and close the blinds to make it darker in the classroom. Playing soft piano music helps to calm young bodies as well.

Warm Lighting
Opt for warm, soft lighting rather than harsh fluorescent lights. String lights or table lamps can create a cozy ambiance in the classroom. If you have the option to, you can opt to only turn half of the lights on to keep it from being too bright in the classroom. If your school allows light covers, those are great as well.

Personalization
Encourage students to contribute to the classroom decor. Display their artwork, crafts, or family photos to create a personal touch in the room. We put family pictures in our cubbies to help make it feel more like home.

Reading Nook
Create a special reading nook with a small bookshelf filled with age-appropriate books. Add some bean bags or cushions for students to relax and enjoy their reading time. We also love these “book buddies” from Kohl’s Cares! They change them a few times a year and I have been collecting them for a while. My students love picking a character and “reading” their book to them. 

Calming Corner
Designate a calming corner with soft music, stress balls, or sensory bottles for students to unwind and relax when needed. We have a calm-down box that has squishies, color-mixing bottles, and scented stuffies that help children to relax.

Neutral materials

Instead of popular characters and toys, opt for more neutral materials to help with turn-taking and energy levels. For example, for dress-up costumes, we have community helper vests instead of popular superheroes or princesses. This helps to keep the energy level lower in the classroom.

Nature-Inspired Decor
Incorporate elements of nature into your classroom decor. Plants, nature posters, or even a small indoor garden can create a sense of calm and tranquility. We love having homey elements like real plants and pretend flowers in a plastic vase. Avoid too many posters on the walls and loud and bright colors.

Cozy Colors
Choose calming and comforting colors for your classroom walls and decor. Soft blues, greens, or pastel shades can create a soothing environment. We love our blue and green Kids Colors bookcases from Lakeshore Learning.

By incorporating these cozy elements into your classroom, you can create a warm and welcoming space where students feel safe, relaxed, and ready to learn. Let’s make our classroom a cozy haven for our little learners!