Lesson Plan
What to Do with Sadness Lesson Plan
Students will recognize and name feelings of grief and sadness and practice two healthy coping strategies—calming breaths and expressive drawing—to manage these emotions at school and home.
This lesson helps 2nd graders understand big emotions, build empathy for themselves and others, and gain simple self-regulation tools to use when they feel sad or upset.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Prepare Materials
10 minutes
Step 1
Introduction and Discussion
5 minutes
Step 2
Explore Coping Strategies
10 minutes
Step 3
Creative Expression Activity
10 minutes
Step 4
Reflection and Closure
5 minutes

Slide Deck
What to Do with Sadness
Objectives
Understanding Sadness & Grief
Emotion Faces
Coping Strategy #1: Calming Breaths
Coping Strategy #2: Expressive Drawing
Reflection & Next Steps

Worksheet


Worksheet


Activity

