Lesson plans to help a child calm down
Short answer
A lesson plan to help a child calm down includes clear objectives, simple materials like a calm-down corner setup, and activities teaching breathing and mindfulness techniques. It guides children from recognizing their feelings to practicing calming strategies through engaging steps, discussion, and reflection, adaptable for classroom or homeschool settings.
What grade levels is this lesson plan suitable for and what are the learning objectives?
This lesson plan is designed primarily for early elementary grades (Kindergarten through 3rd grade) but can be adapted for preschoolers with simpler language and shorter activities. For homeschoolers, adjustments allow for one-on-one attention and pacing.
Learning objectives include:
- Recognizing emotions that cause upset or stress.
- Learning and practicing at least two calming techniques (such as deep breathing and mindful noticing).
- Understanding when and how to use these techniques in real situations.
- Building vocabulary around feelings and self-regulation.
Timing can be structured as follows:
| Lesson Segment | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Warm-up | 5 |
| Direct Instruction | 10 |
| Main Activity | 15 |
| Discussion Questions | 10 |
| Assessment / Exit Ticket | 5 |
This pacing fits within a 45-minute session but can be extended or shortened.
What materials are needed to help a child calm down?
No special materials are required. Common classroom or home items are sufficient:
- A quiet corner or space to be a “calm-down zone” (can use a small chair, pillow, or soft rug).
- A timer or stopwatch (phone timer works well).
- Paper and crayons or markers for drawing feelings.
- Optional: a small stuffed toy or stress ball as a comfort item.
- Visual aids like emotion cards or posters showing different feelings (can be handmade or simple drawings).
Using familiar, low-cost materials keeps the lesson accessible and easy to repeat.
How can teachers or parents start the lesson to engage children?
Begin with a warm-up that invites children to share feelings or experiences:
- Ask, “Have you ever felt mad or upset and didn’t know what to do?”
- Show quick emotion faces and ask children to name them.
- Lead a brief “shake it out” movement to release tension (shaking hands, feet, or whole body).
This gets children thinking about emotions and sets a supportive tone.
What key points should direct instruction cover about calming down?
Focus direct instruction on:
- Identifying emotions: Explain that everyone feels upset sometimes and that’s okay.
- Why calming down helps: Calm feelings let us think clearly and solve problems.
- Simple calming strategies: Teach deep breathing (e.g., “smell the flower, blow out the candle”) and mindful noticing (looking carefully at something calm, noticing sounds or sights).
- When to use calming techniques: Before reacting, during a break, or when feeling overwhelmed.
Use clear, age-appropriate language and demonstrate techniques alongside explanations.
What steps make up the main activity to practice calming down?
The main activity includes:
- Model and practice deep breathing: Guide children to sit quietly, breathe in slowly through the nose for 3 seconds, hold 1 second, breathe out through the mouth for 3 seconds. Repeat 3-5 times.
- Mindful noticing exercise: Choose an object (like a leaf or toy). Invite children to describe what they see, feel, or hear related to the object. Encourage slow, focused attention.
- Drawing feelings: Have children draw a face showing how they feel when upset. Then draw a calm face after using a calming technique. Share drawings in pairs or small groups if comfortable.
- Role-play scenarios: Present short stories where a character feels upset. Ask children what calming methods the character might use. Invite volunteers to act out calming down.
These steps build practical skills through hands-on practice.
What discussion questions help reflect on calming down?
Discussion encourages children to think about their experiences and understanding. Useful questions include:
- How do you feel when you are upset? What tells you it’s time to calm down?
- Which calming technique did you like best? Why?
- Can you think of a time when calming down helped you solve a problem?
- How can you remind yourself to use these steps when you feel upset?
Encourage respectful listening and value all responses to create a safe space.
How can teachers or homeschoolers assess whether children learned to calm down?
Use a simple exit ticket or informal check:
- Ask each child to name one feeling and one calming method they learned today.
- Observe children practicing breathing or mindful noticing independently.
- Have children demonstrate calming down through a brief role-play or drawing.
This quick check confirms understanding and readiness to apply skills.
How can this lesson be differentiated or extended for homeschoolers?
For homeschoolers, individual pacing allows:
- More repetition and practice time for children needing extra support.
- Extensions like keeping a feelings journal for a week.
- Adding movement breaks or yoga stretches as additional calming strategies.
- Using storybooks focused on emotions to deepen understanding.
- Inviting older siblings or parents to practice calming down as a family.
Homeschoolers can adapt materials and activities to fit the child’s interests and developmental level.
Teachers may also adapt the lesson for preschoolers by shortening activities, using more visuals, and focusing on very basic calming skills like blowing bubbles or gentle rocking.
Where can teachers find more ideas and support for helping children calm down?
For further activities tailored to preschoolers, consider resources like Help a child calm down activities for preschoolers. For practical tips and classroom strategies, Tips and tricks to help a child calm down offers additional insights. To support older learners, Helping young adults calm down in the classroom provides ideas to build on these foundational skills.
Frequently asked questions
How long should calming down activities take in a classroom setting?
Typically, 15 to 20 minutes is enough to practice calming techniques without losing young children’s attention. Short, frequent sessions are better than one long session. Adjust based on age and engagement.
What if a child refuses to participate in calming activities?
Respect their feelings and give them space. Offer the calm-down corner as a safe option without pressure. Try revisiting the activities later or using a preferred toy or comfort item to encourage participation.
Can calming down techniques help with anxiety as well as anger?
Yes, deep breathing and mindful noticing can reduce anxiety by focusing attention away from distressing thoughts and promoting relaxation. These skills support emotional regulation broadly.
How can teachers support children who frequently lose control in class?
Establish clear routines and signals for calming down. Teach calming skills proactively. Collaborate with caregivers and, if needed, school counselors to provide tailored support.
Are there signs that a child might need more help beyond calming techniques?
Yes, if a child often becomes overwhelmed to the point of hurting themselves or others, or cannot calm down despite support, professional help from a counselor or mental health provider may be needed.
How can parents reinforce calming techniques learned at school?
Parents can practice calming exercises at home, create a calm-down space, and encourage children to use these skills during everyday challenges to build consistency.