Welcome, friends! Today we’re going to learn a special way to help us make good choices by stopping and thinking before we act. Let’s get ready to “Pause And Think!”

Show the Feelings Chart Poster. Point to each emotion and ask: “How do you feel when you’re happy? Sad? Angry?” Help students name times they’ve felt each emotion.

Explain that an impulse is a quick feeling or thought that tells us to do something right away. Ask for student examples (e.g., grabbing a toy, shouting out an answer).

Introduce the storybook. As you read, pause at key moments and ask: “What could Mia do next? Should she pause and think?” Encourage several students to share ideas.

Hold up each Pause Signal Card. Model the gesture: hand up, stop; two deep breaths; finger to head as you think. Have students practice with you.

Explain the game rules. Play music while students walk safely around. Stop the music randomly and hold up a Pause Card. Ask students to freeze and think of a good choice, then whisper to their partner.

Hand out the worksheets. Prompt students to color the scenario picture, then circle or draw the healthy choice after they pause and think. Offer praise for strong answers.

Review the three steps together. Encourage students to use Stop, Breathe, Think whenever they feel a big impulse. Remind them that their soft fidget object can help them pause.