Welcome students! Today we’re going to learn about safe spaces—places where you can go (physically or in your mind) when you’re feeling upset or overwhelmed. Introduce our agenda: define safe spaces, explore examples, learn coping strategies, and then you’ll draw your own sanctuary.

Ask: “What comes to mind when you hear the words ‘safe space’?” After a couple of responses, show the definition below.

Explain how safe spaces help our emotions and behavior. Invite students to share examples from home or school.

Show a few concrete examples to spark ideas. Encourage students to add to the list after you present.

Introduce coping strategies students can practice in their safe spaces. Model one strategy if time allows.

Explain the upcoming activity: students will map their own safe space on the worksheet [Draw Your Sanctuary](#draw-your-sanctuary), then list three coping strategies they’ll use there.