My Special Space
Here's What To Do
With your child, brainstorm a small space they’d like to create for themsleves, or suggest an area based on their interests and needs.
Help your child to set up the special space. For example, have a space or decorated box for their toys, a little area with a cushion and a box for their books, or a cozy calming spot with a blanket and a stuffed animal.
When your child is involved in creating this space, they’ll feel more invested in taking care of the materials and cleaning up.
Put PEER Into Action
Pause:
- Take your child’s hand, and look around together for a little space they can safely use as their special space.
Engage:
- “Let’s make a special space for you. What should we put there and how should we use it?”
- “How will you take care of your space and keep it clean?”
Encourage:
- Offer help, but let your child take the lead in decorating and arranging the space.
- Talk with them about ways they can help to keep their space clean and tidy.
Reflect:
- “What are you excited to do in your special space?”
Not quite ready?
Identify an area or box for your child based on their interests and needs, and suggest simple tasks they can do to help, like drawing signs to decorate, or collecting a few favorite items.
Ready for more?
Your child can also help to do simple family chores, like helping you to fold their laundry.
As your child masters this skill...
They will identify and care for their personal things and space, with guidance.