Lesson Plan

Chill Mode Framework

Students will learn to recognize anxiety cues and practice quick movement and breathing techniques to 'activate calm' on cue, building skills for emotional regulation in daily life.

Teaching students to manage stress and anxiety through fun, physical activities boosts their self-regulation, focus, and resilience, benefiting both academics and well-being.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Warm-Up

5 minutes

Step 2

Freeze & Breathe Game

8 minutes

Step 3

Calm Command Relay

10 minutes

Step 4

Mood Meter Check

5 minutes

Step 5

Assessment & Closure

2 minutes

Slide Deck

Chill Mode Activated

Welcome everyone! Today we’re activating our Chill Mode so we can calm down super fast when we feel stressed or anxious. Use this slide to set the tone and get students excited.

Agenda

Walk through today’s flow so students know what to expect. Keep it brief and enthusiastic.

What Happens When We’re Anxious?

Explain the body’s stress response in kid-friendly terms. Ask for quick examples (e.g., tests, sports).

Meet Chill Mode

Define ‘Chill Mode’ as a tool students carry with them. Use a superhero analogy to keep it fun.

4-7-8 Breathing Technique

Introduce the 4-7-8 breathing step by step. Demonstrate slowly. Invite students to watch your belly rise and fall.

Let’s Practice Together

Lead one group practice. Count out loud with students: “Inhale…2…3…4,” etc. Encourage them to place a hand on their belly.

Up Next: Freeze & Breathe

Transition smoothly into the Freeze & Breathe game. Reinforce that they now know the breathing part of the game.

Lesson Plan

Chill Mode Framework

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

Step 1

Introduction & Warm-Up

Step 2

Freeze & Breathe Game

Step 3

Calm Command Relay

Step 4

Mood Meter Check

Step 5

Assessment & Closure

Slide Deck

Chill Mode Activated

Agenda

What Happens When We’re Anxious?

Meet Chill Mode

4-7-8 Breathing Technique

Let’s Practice Together

Up Next: Freeze & Breathe

Game

Activity

Cool Down

Chill Mode Activated

Catherine Bradley