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 stationed the Safe Place Mat in the living room so the children can use it as a portable Safe Place. When family members need a quiet moment to compose themselves, they may choose to move the Safe Place Mat to the location of their choice and snuggle with it while doing the breathing activities.

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. The Safe Place Mat is available for purchase in our store, or you may download the Safe Place Breathing Icons from the Printable Tools and Activities in our Free Resources Toolkit.