Welcome students! Introduce today’s mini-lesson on Chill Strategies. Share the goal: learn what stress is, why it matters, and practice four evidence-based techniques to include in your stress chill toolkit.

Ask: “What situations make you feel stressed?” Record responses on flip chart. Use their examples to connect to the definition.

Explain how managing stress ties to CASEL Self-Management: staying focused, making responsible choices, and reaching goals.

Model box breathing. Lead students through 3 rounds, counting out loud. Encourage them to notice their heart rate and breathing.

Lead a brief full-body relaxation: fists → arms → shoulders → face. Guide them to notice tension release.

Invite volunteers to share negative thoughts they’ve had. Then guide them to reframe into positive affirmations.

Distribute paper and markers. Play calm background music and allow 2–3 minutes for free doodling. Prompt them to focus on the process, not the product.

Explain station logistics: groups, rotation order, timing. Assign a timer keeper. Emphasize reflection at each station.