Lesson Plan

Calm-Down Strategy Roadmap

In a 25-minute one-on-one session, the student will identify personal emotional triggers and co-create a personalized calm-down strategy plan using guided reflection, drawing, and planning activities.

Building self-awareness and emotional regulation in early grades helps students manage big feelings, reduce outbursts, and develop lifelong coping skills.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

3 minutes

Step 2

Trigger Identification

7 minutes

Step 3

Guided Reflection

5 minutes

Step 4

Drawing My Triggers

5 minutes

Step 5

Creating My Calm-Down Plan

4 minutes

Step 6

Review and Closure

1 minute

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Slide Deck

Identifying My Triggers

Welcome! Today we're going to learn what a “trigger” is and how to notice what makes us feel upset. Get ready to share and draw!

What Is a Trigger?

Explain that a trigger is like a button that makes our feelings go from calm to upset. Use simple examples.

Think About Your Upset Moments

Ask the student to think aloud about a time they felt upset. Prompt them gently if they need help remembering.

Some Common Triggers

Show these common triggers and ask if any sound like what the student has felt. Encourage them to add their own ideas.

Draw Your Triggers

Explain that on the next slide they will draw their own triggers. Prepare paper or the worksheet.

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Script

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Worksheet

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Can You Stay Calm?

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