5 Affordable Calm Down & SEL Tools Every Classroom Needs

If you’re still figuring out why a calm down corner matters or how to set one up, check out this guide first. Then come back here to grab my favorite tools to fill it!

If you’ve ever had a student overwhelmed by big feelings, you know the value of a calm down corner. But building one doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

These five tools are my go-to favorites—and they’re all teacher-approved and budget-friendly on Amazon.


✨ 1. HEXlight Sensory Lights

I know I’ve mentioned these before, but I’m sharing them again because they are just so cool. Soft ambient lighting instantly makes any corner feel safe and cozy. These bestselling HEXlights are easy to set up—and they’re 20% off right now.

👉 Shop HEXlight Sensory Lights


🧘 2. Liquid Motion Bubblers

These quiet, mesmerizing timers help students focus on their breath and regulate emotions. They’re great for individual calm-down kits or classroom corners.

👉 Get Liquid Motion Bubblers


👐 3. Stress Ball Fidget Toys

Fidgets are perfect for calming busy hands and grounding anxious energy. These colorful stress balls are easy to clean and come in sets for small groups.

👉 Shop Stress Balls and Fidgets


🌟 4. 🌬️ Skywin Breathing Maze Set

Teaching kids to breathe deeply and regulate their emotions can feel overwhelming—but this simple tool makes it approachable and fun. The Skywin Breathing Maze Set includes handheld boards with engraved paths that guide children to trace with their finger while inhaling and exhaling.

Why it works:
✅ Encourages slow, mindful breathing
✅ Gives kids a tactile focus point
✅ Helps calm anxiety and big feelings
✅ Easy to clean and durable

These breathing mazes are perfect for:

  • Calm down corners
  • Counseling or play therapy sessions
  • Morning meetings or SEL circles
  • Quiet moments after recess or transitions

If you’re looking for a hands-on way to help students learn self-regulation, this set is a fantastic addition to your toolkit.

👉 See the Skywin Breathing Maze Set on Amazon

🌸 5. Bloom: A Flower Coloring Book

Sometimes the simplest way to relax is to pick up a pencil and fill a page with color. Bloom: A Flower Coloring Book is a beautiful collection of 30+ hand-drawn floral illustrations by artist Alli Koch. From intricate blossoms to bold blooms, each page is designed to help you unwind and recharge.

Why I love it:
✅ Single-sided pages (no bleed-through!)
✅ Thick, high-quality paper
✅ Designs range from simple to detailed
✅ Inspiring and calming for any age

This coloring book is perfect for:

  • Quiet moments during your planning period
  • Creative breaks to reset your mind
  • Self-care routines or classroom stress relief

It also makes a thoughtful gift for teachers, friends, or anyone who loves flowers and creativity.

👉 See Bloom: A Flower Coloring Book on Amazon

🌈 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re setting up a dedicated calm down corner or simply adding a few SEL supports to your classroom, these tools can make a big difference in how students feel and respond.

You don’t need to spend a lot—just start small and be consistent.

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Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

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