How can teachers create a feeling of Hygge in classroom design? Create a calm and inviting classroom environment. One that promotes a neutral pallet and simple clean lines. Create learning spaces that are child-centered. Bring in items that support the community. Both the family communities in the classroom and the physical community that surrounds the school.
Why Should Educators Embark on Change?
When the classroom space is covered in bright colors and paper cutouts the visual overwhelm can become too much for many students. Instead, have the mindset that the students and their behaviors are not the issues. As a result of my own self-reflection, and realizing the classroom environment was actually creating issues and overwhelm, I began to make small changes in the environment.
I decided a pretty drastic change was in order as I began to see an increase in student behaviors over the years. Challenging behaviors immediately disappeared when I created a calm and neutral environment. First, I began with my wall decor. I simplified the majority of it and created a set with neutral colors and tones. I was drawn to a color pallet that was reminiscent of a living room or home space and the idea of Hygge was born.
What is Hygge?
As I began to research my options the word HYGGE (pronounced HooGah) continued to pop up. HYGGE means a feeling of coziness and contentment and well-being. Consequently isn’t that what we ultimately want–children to have a sense of belonging and well-being in our classrooms? A few specific components must be included in order for the décor to be considered true Hygge.
5 Components to Hygge in a Classroom
- Bring the Outdoors in…
- Turn off the lights…
- remove overhead lighting, especially fluorescent lights. Instead, offer lamps and twinkle lights or flameless candles.
- Include something soft…
- pillows, rugs, chairs in the library, curtains, and material for bulletin boards and table covers.
- Surround yourself with meaningful items…
- authentic learning items rather than mass-produced school supply stores are where I find my manipulatives. Encourage children to learn using a hands-on educational style.
- Simplify…
- create small intimate spaces that are organized and intentional. Give the children areas where they can spread out and find a quiet space to work. Remove some of the items on the shelves and create a functional, well-ordered space. As a result, the natural flow of energy will help challenging behaviors decrease.
MOST IMPORTANT
- BE PRESENT.
- As a teacher being present is a requirement. However, until I began to practice Hygge and changed the feeling of my classroom I don’t believe I was completely present. What I mean is while my body was physically in the classroom my mind was elsewhere.
- Instead of being fully immersed in the curriculum, my mind would wander and I would be thinking about the cozy fire at home, or my fuzzy blanket, a cup of coffee and a good book I had been reading.
- Now that my classroom is intentionally designed with Hygge, I can honestly say I am just as happy and present in my classroom as in my own living room. And as a positive result, so are my students and their families!
Want to know more about how to create a Hygge filled space? Are you looking for additional information on how to become a Natural Classroom Specialist? Click the link to receive your FREE Master Guide to Natural Classrooms.
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19 Responses
I love this! I’ve recently starting changing my classroom to more muted tones to created a more calming environment!
I have never heard of hygge and was very curious about it! I LOVE all of your ideas and how you are creating a natural classroom for your students!
Thank you! I agree that classroom decor can be overwhelming. Why not create a sense of calm with decor? Thanks for your natural classroom perspective!
We were actually required to do this very thing in our classrooms this year. I wish I would have your guide this summer when I was redecorating! I completely agree with everything you said. I can totally see a difference in my students and myself. It just feels calmer in my classroom. I’m going to share this blog post with my principal. She will love it!
Ashley- YES! Share away, the more educators who know the how and why of natural spaces, the better!
I’ve recently been introduced to the concept of hygge and love your ideas of bringing it into the classroom!! I want my students to feel cozy and comfortable, not over-stimulated. Thanks for sharing your wisdom and ideas with us!
I’ve been slowly doing this too. I used to do bright primary colors, reds, yellows greens etc. If MY eyes hurt looking at all the busy stuff, what was it doing to the kiddos brains. Thanks for this, it’s really helpful.
These are such great reminders for teachers. I learned so much. Thank you so much!
I love the concept of hygge but haven’t thought about it in terms of teaching space yet – great insights! I especially like the idea of twinkle lights.
I love myself a good Hygge space! (No clue if that’s grammatically correct, but oh well). Thank you so much for sharing your tips and ideas!
This would be perfect for my classroom & your ideas for use are literally amazing!!
Hi Tina. How can we purchase your ‘natural classroom decor bundle’? I love it:-)
Hey Joy, thanks for reaching out! You can access the decor bundle here! https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Natural-Classroom-Decor-Starter-Bundle-Burlap-4627943
I love your ideas!
I started a TEACH class today. I did my classroom in natural calming colors, I had lamps and soft lighting and aquarium sounds and music on all day . Upon arrival the director told me I needed the bright light on and no music . Needless to say I stuck w my idea of creating a nice calm , homey relaxing room . My autistic kids were happy content and played well. Although I was criticized and told I had set my class up wrong it was an amazing day for the kids and for myself as well. Thank u for your article.