Ruby’s Worry lesson plan

Teachers & homeschoolers · Lesson plan · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What grade levels is the Ruby’s Worry lesson plan suitable for?

Ruby’s Worry is best suited for early elementary students, typically kindergarten to third grade (ages 5-9). At this stage, children are developing emotional awareness and language to express feelings like worry. The story uses simple but relatable language and illustrations, making it accessible for young learners. The lesson plan can be adapted for younger children with more guided discussions or for older students with reflective writing activities. Teachers and homeschoolers should consider their learners’ developmental level when planning the lesson, adjusting vocabulary or pacing as needed.

What are the learning objectives and timing for this lesson?

This lesson plan aims to help children:

• Identify what worry feels like and looks like.
• Understand that everyone experiences worry sometimes.
• Learn practical ways to manage worries and reduce their impact.
• Express their feelings about worry through discussion and activity.

A suggested timing breakdown for a 45-minute lesson is:

This timing can be stretched over two sessions if needed, especially in a homeschool setting.

What materials are needed for this lesson plan?

No special printables or purchased materials are required. Common classroom or home supplies work well:

• A copy of the book Ruby’s Worry by Tom Percival (digital or physical)
• Paper and coloring supplies (crayons, markers, or colored pencils)
• Small smooth stones (optional) or paper cut-outs shaped like stones
• Pencil or pen
• A quiet space for reading and reflection

If stones are not available, paper “worry stones” can be created as part of the activity. Having a comfortable seating area helps children focus during the story and discussions.

How should the warm-up activity be conducted?

Start by inviting students to share what they think “worry” means. Ask simple questions such as:

• “Have you ever felt worried? What did it feel like?”
• “What kinds of things make people worried?”

Encourage children to describe feelings and physical sensations linked to worry (like butterflies in the stomach or a racing heart). This helps activate their prior knowledge and sets a supportive tone. Use reassuring language to normalize worry as a common feeling everyone experiences sometimes.

What are the key points for direct instruction?

During the read-aloud of Ruby’s Worry, pause to highlight important concepts:

• Worries can feel like a small pebble but can grow bigger if we keep focusing on them.
• It is okay to talk about worries with someone you trust.
• There are ways to help worries shrink or go away, like sharing them or doing calming activities.

Reiterate that worries are normal but don’t have to control us. Use simple, clear language and check for understanding by asking questions like, “What did Ruby do when her worry got too big?”

What steps should the main activity include?

1. Explain that everyone will create their own “worry stone” or worry drawing to help manage worries.
2. Distribute stones or paper shapes and coloring materials.
3. Invite children to think of a worry they have (real or imagined).
4. Encourage them to decorate their worry stone or draw their worry on paper.
5. As they work, prompt them to think about ways to make their worry smaller, like rubbing the stone or talking to someone.
6. After decorating, discuss how holding or looking at the worry stone might remind them to breathe deeply or stay calm.

This hands-on activity helps children externalize and manage worry through a tangible object or creative expression.

What discussion questions help deepen understanding?

Use these questions after the activity to guide reflection:

• “How did it feel to think about your worry and make a worry stone?”
• “What can you do if your worry starts to feel too big?”
• “Who can you talk to when you feel worried?”
• “What are some things that help you feel calm or happy?”

Encourage sharing but respect if some children prefer to listen quietly. Reinforce the message that worries are normal and manageable.

How can teachers or homeschoolers assess learning at the end?

A simple exit ticket can be used:

• Ask children to name one thing they learned about worry.
• Have them share one way they can help themselves feel less worried.

This can be verbal or a quick drawing. Assess if children grasp the concept that worries are common but manageable emotions. Teachers can also observe participation during discussion and activity.

How can this lesson be differentiated or extended for homeschoolers?

For younger or more anxious children, provide extra support by:

• Using one-on-one reading and discussion.
• Allowing them to dictate their worries to a parent or teacher.

Older or more advanced learners can extend the lesson by:

• Writing a short story about a worry they overcame.
• Keeping a simple worry journal, writing or drawing worries daily.
• Practicing deep breathing or mindfulness techniques alongside the worry stone activity.

Offer choices to meet each child’s needs and comfort level with sharing emotions.

Frequently asked questions

How does Ruby’s Worry help children understand anxiety?

Ruby’s Worry uses a relatable story to show how worries can grow if not shared or managed, helping children recognize anxious feelings and encouraging healthy coping strategies like talking about worries or using calming tools.

Can I use Ruby’s Worry with older students?

Yes, but adapt the lesson by focusing on reflective writing, deeper discussions about anxiety, or linking it to stress management techniques appropriate for their age.

What if a child is reluctant to share their worries?

Respect their privacy, offering alternative ways to express feelings, such as drawing or writing. Reinforce that sharing is a choice, and they can talk when they feel ready.

How often should worry management lessons be repeated?

Regularly revisiting worry and coping skills helps children build emotional resilience. Brief reminders or follow-up activities every few weeks can reinforce learning.

Are there related lesson plans to complement Ruby’s Worry?

Yes, explore related plans like the [Worry Stone lesson plan](#r1), [Worry Monster lesson plan](#r2), or [Teaching About Worry: Understanding and Managing It](#r5) for additional strategies and activities.