Lesson Plan

Trigger Exploration Plan

Students will recognize common emotional and situational triggers, articulate how these triggers make them feel, and identify at least one prevention strategy to manage their reactions.

Understanding personal triggers helps students develop self-regulation skills, reduce disruptive behaviors, and foster a positive, supportive classroom environment.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction to Triggers

5 minutes

Step 2

Scenario Exploration

7 minutes

Step 3

Role-Play Relay

8 minutes

Step 4

My Trigger Detective Worksheet

6 minutes

Step 5

Cool-Down Art Reflection

4 minutes

Slide Deck

Trigger Scenarios

Introduce the slide deck. Explain that you will read several short stories (scenarios) and together you’ll identify the trigger, talk about feelings, and think of ways to stay calm.

Scenario 1: Spill on Art Project

Read the scenario slowly. After reading each question, pause and call on volunteers. Guide students to name the spilled water as the trigger and suggest gentle strategies (asking for help, taking a deep breath).

Scenario 2: Waiting in Line

Emphasize how waiting can feel frustrating. Prompt students to think of games, deep breaths, or talking quietly with a friend while they wait.

Scenario 3: Loud Hallway Noise

Describe the hallway noise vividly. Encourage students to name the noise as the trigger and suggest covering ears, visualizing calm, or refocusing on their work.

Scenario 4: Teasing on the Playground

Discuss how teasing can feel hurtful. Guide students to recognize teasing as the trigger and suggest strategies like telling an adult, using kind self-talk, or walking away.

Discuss and Share

Wrap up by inviting volunteers to share which scenario they related to most and one new strategy they’d like to try. Encourage connection to their own triggers.