Lesson Plan

Traffic Light Emotions

Students will learn to identify and categorize their emotions using a traffic light system (green = calm, yellow = cautious, red = stop) and select safe self-management strategies for each zone.

Helps 2nd graders build self-awareness and control by recognizing feelings early and choosing appropriate behaviors, improving classroom climate and social–emotional health.

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Prep

Prepare Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up

5 minutes

Step 2

Teach Traffic Light Emotions

8 minutes

Step 3

Worksheet Activity

8 minutes

Step 4

Cool-Down & Reflection

3 minutes

Step 5

Differentiation

1 minute

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Slide Deck

Traffic Light Emotions

Welcome! Today we will learn about our feelings using a traffic light like signals. Explain that just like a real traffic light helps cars know when to go, slow down, or stop, our feelings can guide our actions so we stay safe and calm.

Green Light Zone

Explain green = go! When we feel calm and happy, it’s safe to keep doing what we’re doing. Show the green light graphic and point out examples.

Yellow Light Zone

Explain yellow = caution. It means we need to slow down and pay attention to our feelings before we act. Show the yellow light graphic.

Red Light Zone

Explain red = stop. It means we need to pause and use a strategy before we do something we might regret. Show the red light graphic.

Green Zone Strategies

Point out that when we are calm (green), we can keep doing what’s working—like helping friends or focusing on our task.

Yellow Zone Strategies

Model taking three deep breaths slowly. Explain that counting helps slow our brain down when we feel unsure (yellow).

Red Zone Strategies

Emphasize it’s okay to ask for help when we feel very big feelings (red). Remind students they are not alone.

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Worksheet

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Feelings Traffic Light

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Elizabeth Medina

Tier 1
For Schools
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