How to Use a Portable Safe Place in the Living Room

The Safe Place Mat is a touch-friendly tool for active calming. The Bug Family has mounted the Safe Place Mat on the wall, where children can remove it for use as a portable Safe Place. When family members need a quiet moment to recompose themselves, they may choose to remove and snuggle with the Safe Place Mat while doing the breathing activities depicted on it. When the moment is over, they return the Safe Place Mat to its handy location on the wall.

The Safe Place Mat features smooth embroidered breathing icons (S.T.A.R., Drain, Pretzel and Balloon) in a plush background on one side of the mat, and raised nubs on the other side of the mat. It provides both visual and tactile feedback for children who are learning to calm themselves. Active calming through deep belly breaths is the cornerstone of self-control and emotional regulation.