Cozy Corner : A Tool for Separation, and So Much More

“Intentionality” is not a word that would normally be associated with “cozy,” but before our young learners arrived in September, the teachers of Classroom 6 had a definite, intentional plan for an improved Cozy Corner. On the blackboard wall by the door, pictures of favorite book characters created a beautiful visual display. A fuzzy body pillow, a velvet arm pillow, a new snail pillow for hugging, and a quilted blanket for snuggling were ready, but they needed a new base. When the perfect rug was found and delivered to Duane Street, the Cozy Corner was almost ready. Teachers filled the bookshelf with books to entertain and soothe the children during the first few weeks of school - a time when separation may feel new and scary. The books were tried and true, basically fool-proof: Llama Llama Misses Mama, Owl Babies, Goodnight Moon, and Please, Baby, Please. All they needed were the children to see if the Cozy Corner was going to be a success.

Books are an integral piece of our ABAR work at The Washington Market School. Having books that represent every learner in the classroom not only celebrates the diversity of the people that we see every day at our school and in New York City but also highlights our similarities. Stories can help young learners gain a shared understanding of embracing people and self love.

Stocking the bookshelves in our classrooms with books about our cultures, celebrations, and heritages sends a clear message to our learners: we are different in some ways and we are the same in others, and learning about each other creates an atmosphere of acceptance and embracing one another. The Cozy Corner in Classroom 6 is a perfect place to share this message with our young learners. 

The Cozy Corner is also a safe space for our learners to process any emotions they may be feeling. From the very first day of school, the children sat with teachers, classmates, and caregivers to help with separation. Sitting and reading with others gives a sense of security that can be hard to match when working elsewhere in the room. A grown-up’s lap or even just sitting next to them can be a helpful tool to calm and soothe a child. 

Feeling comfortable in one part of the room, such as the Cozy Corner, is the jumping off point to exploring the entire classroom for many children. “Slow to warm” is a description many parents use for their toddlers. Having a space, such as the Cozy Corner, allows children to feel loved and accepted by their teachers and classmates. They are more able to venture out into other activities, returning to the Cozy Corner when needed. This is a perfect example of why secure attachment is vital to young children. The Cozy Corner is a home base that resets a child’s social and emotional health, allowing for future learning and exploration.