Learning Goals
- Learning strategies that increase feelings of calmness and control
Curriculum Connection
Over time, with practice, observation and coaching, students begin to build a personal “coping toolbox” that they can carry with them through life.
Health and Physical Education –
Stress Management and Coping Skills
Materials
- Electronic device to access the visual, or –
- Belly Breathing template
Preparation
- Find a calm, quiet area.
- Display visual template.
Extensions:
Support learners through adult imitation and direction.
For beginner learners, use a ‘thumbs up’ and thumbs down’ signal to indicate their state of calmness.
Verbal Prompts
Let’s practice our breathing.
First, rate how you feel on a scale of 1 to 5? 1 being very calm and 5 being very angry or stressed. (Alternatively, use a thumbs up or thumbs down.)
Next, Follow the steps on the Belly Breathing visual. Put your hand on your belly to feel your belly getting bigger as your breath goes in and flat as your breath goes out
Then, notice how you feel. Did your number get lower? (Alternatively, use a thumbs up or thumbs down.)
Finished.
Good for you! You just calmed your body by breathing with your belly.
Time to check your schedule!