Lesson Plan

Signal Brainstorm Session

Students will identify and generate a variety of personalized break signals to communicate self-regulation needs, categorize them by type (visual, auditory, movement), and prepare for designing their own signals in the next session.

This lesson empowers students to develop self-advocacy by learning to signal for breaks in a safe, respectful way. It fosters independence, supports self-regulation, and builds a shared vocabulary for behavioral supports.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Goal Setting

5 minutes

Step 2

Explore Signal Examples

10 minutes

Step 3

Brainstorm & Record Ideas

15 minutes

Step 4

Categorize & Discuss Signals

5 minutes

Step 5

Reflection & Next Steps

5 minutes

Slide Deck

Signal Options Gallery

Welcome students to the gallery of signal ideas. Introduce the purpose: to see examples of how people can show they need a break without speaking out loud.

Visual Signal #1: Colored Card Flip

Point out how flipping a card is quick, silent, and easy to see. Ask: “How many colors could you use?”

Visual Signal #2: Twistable Wristband

Explain that wristbands are wearable reminders. Emphasize classroom-friendly, low-profile design.

Auditory Signal #1: Soft Bell Ring

Discuss the volume: bell should be soft enough not to disrupt others. Invite students to brainstorm other quiet sounds.

Auditory Signal #2: Gentle Desk Tap

Highlight that desk taps can be done with a pencil or finger. Ask: “How would you keep it quiet?”

Movement Signal #1: Silent Hand Wave

Model the silent wave and have students practice it. Note how movement signals work across the room.

Movement Signal #2: Crossed-Arms Posture

Demonstrate crossing arms and resting on desk. Discuss visibility and ease.

Which Signal Fits You?

Encourage students to pick one example they like most. Explain next steps: they’ll design a custom version next time.

Lesson Plan

Signal Brainstorm Session

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

Step 1

Introduction & Goal Setting

Step 2

Explore Signal Examples

Step 3

Brainstorm & Record Ideas

Step 4

Categorize & Discuss Signals

Step 5

Reflection & Next Steps

Slide Deck

Signal Options Gallery

Visual Signal #1: Colored Card Flip

Visual Signal #2: Twistable Wristband

Auditory Signal #1: Soft Bell Ring

Auditory Signal #2: Gentle Desk Tap

Movement Signal #1: Silent Hand Wave

Movement Signal #2: Crossed-Arms Posture

Which Signal Fits You?

Activity

Script

What’s Your Signal?

Marcus Eck