Lesson Plan

Healing Little Hearts Lesson Plan

Help a 2nd grader recognize and express grief over the loss of their guinea pig, practice naming feelings, learn a simple coping strategy, and feel comforted through journaling and a calming exercise.

Losing a pet can be confusing and sad for a young child. This session offers a safe, supportive space to share emotions, introduces a coping tool, and helps the student feel understood and cared for.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Review and Prepare Materials

5 minutes

Step 1

Greeting and Introduction

2 minutes

Step 2

Sharing Memories

3 minutes

Step 3

Identifying Feelings

3 minutes

Step 4

Learning Coping Strategy

4 minutes

Step 5

Closure and Positive Reminder

3 minutes

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Slide Deck

Healing Little Hearts

Welcome the student warmly. Say: “Today we’ll talk about how you’re feeling after your guinea pig passed away, and learn a way to help you feel calmer.”

Memories of Your Guinea Pig

Invite the student: “Can you tell me one of your favorite memories with your guinea pig?” Listen actively and validate: “That sounds like a very special moment.”

How Are You Feeling?

Show feeling faces (sad, confused, happy). Ask: “Which face matches how you feel right now?” Encourage drawing or writing the feeling in the journal.

Let’s Breathe Together

Introduce the breathing exercise: “We’ll breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 1, then breathe out for 4.” Model once, then guide two practice rounds, praising their effort.

You’re Not Alone

Summarize: “You did great naming how you feel and practicing breathing. Remember, you can use your journal and this breathing anytime you feel sad. I’m here for you.”

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Script

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Journal

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Activity

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Healing Little Hearts

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Claudia Olivares

Tier 3
For Schools
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