How to Create a Calm Classroom with Calming Classroom Decor

Have you ever walked into a classroom that was so visually overwhelming it made your head spin? From bright colors to busy patterns, classroom decorations can either enhance or hinder student learning. But did you know that a calming environment can actually have a positive impact on academic performance? Studies have shown that the right classroom decorations can reduce stress, improve focus, and even encourage creativity. 

SPOILER: I've included a link to a set of FREE calming classroom posters at the end of this post!

Let's delve into the science behind calming classroom decorations, see how to create a calming environment, and explore the benefits of incorporating natural elements into your classroom décor. 

Research has shown that a calming classroom environment can have a positive impact on student academic performance. But what exactly is the science behind it? According to a study by the University of Salford, the physical characteristics of a classroom can impact student learning by up to 25%. This includes factors such as lighting, temperature, and yes, even decorations. A calm and organized classroom can help reduce stress levels and improve concentration, making it easier for students to retain information. By incorporating natural elements and soothing colors, teachers can create a calming atmosphere that reduces stress and improves academic performance.

Calming decor in a classroom isn't just about adding a few plants or muted colors. It's about creating an overall environment that fosters a sense of safety, comfort, and tranquility for students. To achieve this, teachers can take a few simple steps such as decluttering the classroom, utilizing natural light, and rearranging furniture to create a more spacious and open feel. Simple changes like these can go a long way in promoting relaxation and focus in students.

By creating a calming environment, teachers can set their students up for success. 

A calming classroom environment can be achieved through various design strategies. Among these, color psychology plays a critical role in creating a soothing and relaxing space for students. Soft pastel shades of pink and purple are also known to create a calming effect and promote feelings of comfort and security.

Certain colors such as blue and green have been found to evoke feelings of calmness, tranquility, and focus, making them ideal for classroom decorations. 

On the other hand, bright and bold colors such as red and orange can have the opposite effect and induce feelings of stress, anxiety, and restlessness. While these colors may be appropriate in some contexts, they are best avoided in a classroom environment where relaxation and focus are essential for learning.

By understanding the principles of color psychology, teachers can choose the right decorations and color schemes for their classroom to create a calming and conducive learning environment. 

To create a calming classroom environment, choosing the right decorations is crucial. As discussed earlier, soft and muted colors are ideal for promoting relaxation and concentration, while bright and bold colors should be avoided. When selecting decorations, it is important to keep the overall color scheme in mind and ensure that it complements the calming atmosphere. Nature-inspired decorations can be an excellent choice for a calming classroom. 

Elements such as plants, natural textures, and landscapes can create a soothing environment and promote feelings of well-being. Additionally, incorporating elements of nature into your classroom can inspire curiosity and promote learning about the world around us.

Here are some calming classroom design mood boards to get you inspired...

Rainbow_Rug /// Modern Curved Chairs /// Inspirational Poster /// Garland /// Binder Clips and Supplies /// Colorful Pens /// Ladder /// Wire Baskets /// Wall Clock /// White Lamp

Plant Prints /// Forest_Tapestry /// Leaf Pillow /// Round Cushions /// Geometric Rug /// Geometric Lamp /// Baskets /// Tree Magnetic Photo Display /// Large Desk Calendar

Hanging Clouds /// Cloud Banner /// Rug /// White Chair /// Feather Lamp /// Cloud Basket /// Artificial Succulents /// Blue clock

Garland /// Posters /// Sunshine Wall Decal /// Reading Nook Teepee Tent /// Artificial Plants /// Seagrass Rug /// Chair Pillow /// Gold Metal Lamp /// Hanging Chair

Natural Stripe Rug /// Bookshelf /// Basket Wall Decals /// Natural Chairs /// Plant /// Free Posters /// Lamp /// Bark Pencils /// Felt Bunting

Mountain Rug /// Round Ottoman /// Mountain Garland /// Motivational Posters /// Desk Lamp /// Storage Baskets /// Letter Tray

By carefully selecting the right decorations and color schemes, teachers can create a calming and conducive learning environment for their students. 

Plants, natural textures, and landscape-inspired decor can help create a relaxing atmosphere that promotes concentration and well-being.

Adding plants to your classroom not only enhances its aesthetic appeal, but it also helps purify the air and promotes a healthy environment. You can choose plants that are easy to care for, such as spider plants, peace lilies, or succulents. Hanging or mounting them on walls or placing them on desks or shelves can create a sense of natural beauty and relaxation.

Textures such as wood, woven materials, or natural fibers can provide a tactile feel that adds warmth and depth to your classroom. Using earthy and calming tones such as blues, greens, and browns can contribute to a soothing atmosphere, while pops of brighter colors can add interest and stimulate creativity.

Landscape-inspired decorations can also promote a love for the environment and inspire curiosity about the world around us. Maps, photographs, or posters of nature scenes can immerse students in a world beyond the classroom, encouraging them to learn more about different cultures and ecosystems.

An easy way to add calm décor to your classroom is to start with your own teacher desk. By thoughtfully selecting natural supplies for your desk, you can set the tone for a calming work environment. Here are some examples...

Plant /// Botanical Mousepad /// Pencil Holder Organizer /// Highlighters /// Lesson Planner /// Desk Calendar /// Desktop Organizer /// Desk Lamp /// Free Teacher Positive Affirmation Cards /// Stapler

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In short, the science of calming classroom decorations shows that a well-thought-out and organized classroom environment can have a significant impact on student learning. By incorporating natural elements and soothing colors, teachers can create a calming atmosphere that reduces stress and improves academic performance.

So...what do you think?  Are you feeling inspired to create a calm learning environment?  I sure hope so!  To get you started, I created this FREE set of Calming Classroom Posters.

Just add your information below and then check your email inbox!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Mary Beth

P.S. I've put together more classroom mood boards here.

* This post contains affiliate links.