Lesson Plan

Why Desks Stay Put

Student will learn why throwing desks and chairs is unsafe and identify at least three alternative ways to express big emotions safely.

This trauma-informed lesson builds self-awareness and emotional regulation skills while ensuring classroom safety by replacing harmful behaviors with positive coping strategies.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Review Materials and Environment

5 min

Step 1

Warm-Up and Check-In

5 min

Step 2

Introduction to Safety Topic

5 min

Step 3

Identifying Emotions

5 min

Step 4

Teaching Coping Strategies

7 min

Step 5

Role-Play Application

5 min

Step 6

Debrief and Personalized Plan

3 min

lenny

Slide Deck

Desks Are Not Frisbees

Use a gradient background from #3A7CA5 to #71B6E6. Greet the student warmly, introduce the topic, and point out the title.

Check-In: How Are You Feeling?

Prompt the student to use the [Emotion Thermometer Cards](#emotion-thermometer-cards). Ask: “How are you feeling right now?” Validate their response and note any signs of distress.

Why Desks Stay Put

Show simple visuals of broken desks and injured classmates. Ask: “What could happen if someone threw a desk?” Emphasize the safety risks.

Identifying Our Emotions

Lay out the [Emotion Thermometer Cards](#emotion-thermometer-cards). Have the student pick the card that matches how they feel when upset and describe any physical sensations.

Safe Coping Strategies

Introduce the [Coping Strategies Chart](#coping-strategies-chart-desks). Model each strategy and practice together: deep breathing, squeezing the stress ball, and counting to ten.

Practice with Scenarios

Use the [Classroom Scenario Cards](#classroom-scenario-cards-desks). Let the student choose one scenario, then guide them to use a coping strategy instead of throwing. Provide positive feedback.

Your Personal Plan

Review which strategies felt most helpful. Have the student write down their top three strategies and encourage them to use these when they feel upset.

lenny

Worksheet

lenny
lenny

Worksheet

lenny
lenny

Activity

lenny
lenny

Cool Down

lenny

Script

lenny
lenny

Desks Are Not Frisbees

Amy Rich

Tier 3
For Districts
lenny-learning-logo

Lenny Learning

Create Lesson

CASEL

Health & Wellness

Behavioral Supports

Counseling & Therapy

Family Engagement

School Climate

Special Education

Academic Integration

Seasonal

Career & Life Skills

Arts & Creativity

My Lessons

My Lessons

Video Library

Video Library

Support

Support

Log In