Sample of use in education with students with IDD
Corners or common areas in the classroom:
Individual work corner:
Description: An area where students perform tasks autonomously and without distractions. It is usually a quiet space with an individual table, organized work materials and few stimuli.
Example: In a corner of the classroom, a table is placed with a small shelf with the materials the student needs. This area is delimited by a carpet or colored tape on the floor, and a visual barrier (such as a bookshelf) can be used to reduce distractions.
Group work corner:
Description: A space designed for collaborative activities where students work in teams. This corner is set up with large tables and chairs, and may contain whiteboards or shared materials.
Example: In the center of the classroom, a large table or several grouped tables are surrounded by chairs. On the nearby wall, there is a blackboard where the teacher can write instructions for group work.
Play or recreation/leisure corner:
Description: This space is dedicated to play and recreational activities. The materials here are designed to promote free or directed play.
Example: An area with soft carpet, construction sets, puzzles, and sensory toys is bounded by bright colors or a low bookshelf that visually divides this area from the rest of the classroom.
Social skills corner:
Description: An area dedicated to teaching and practicing social skills. Role-playing, simulations or activities aimed at improving communication and social interactions can take place here.
Example: A corner with chairs in a circle where students can interact with each other while playing social skills games guided by the teacher or therapist.
Autonomy skills corner:
Description: A space dedicated to teaching and practicing functional and autonomy skills, such as dressing, organizing, or preparing their own materials.
Example: An area equipped with everyday living materials, such as clothing to learn to button or button up, simple utensils to prepare a snack, or a coat rack to practice hanging coats.
Assembly Corner:
Description: This is the space where the group gathers for collective activities, such as listening to the teacher, discussing the day's plan, or performing a group activity.
Example: An area with a large rug where all students can sit in a circle or in rows for group activities. There may be a large chalkboard and a visual schedule on the wall to explain the day's activities.
Respite corner:
Description: A quiet space where students can relax or take a break when they feel overwhelmed or need a moment of calm.
Example: A corner with cushions, a soft rug, and dim lights. There may be sensory elements, such as soft balls or squeeze toys, to help the student relax.
