Anxiety ABCs

Sarah Cheslock

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Anxiety ABCs

Identify signs of anxiety

This lesson introduces 1st graders to the concept of anxiety using simple language and relatable examples. Students will learn to identify basic signs of anxiety and develop coping strategies through interactive storytelling. This lesson is important as it helps young students recognize and articulate their feelings, promoting emotional awareness and resilience.

Audience

1st Grade Students

Time

30 mins

Approach

Identify signs of anxiety

Materials

Storybook: 'Worry Says What?', Printable Cards: Coping Strategies, and Worksheet: My Feelings

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin by asking students if they have ever felt worried or scared about something.
Explain that these feelings are normal and are called 'anxiety.'
Introduce the storybook 'Worry Says What?' to help explain anxiety in simple terms.

Step 2

Storytelling

10 mins

Read the storybook 'Worry Says What?' aloud to the class.
Pause at key points to ask students how the character is feeling and why.
Encourage students to share similar experiences if they feel comfortable.

Step 3

Discussion

5 mins

Discuss with students what signs of anxiety they noticed in the story.
Ask students how they think the character could feel better.
Introduce the concept of coping strategies.

Step 4

Activity: Coping Strategies

5 mins

Hand out the printable cards with different coping strategies.
Explain each strategy briefly and ask students to pick one they would like to try.
Encourage students to practice the strategy when they feel anxious.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Distribute the 'My Feelings' worksheet.
Ask students to draw or write about a time they felt anxious and what they did to feel better.
Collect the worksheets to review students' understanding.

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Worksheet

Coping Strategies Cards

These cards provide simple coping strategies for students to use when they feel anxious. They are designed for one-sided printing and can be used as a reference for students.

Take deep breaths

Count to ten

Talk to a friend

Draw a picture

Think of a happy place

Worksheet

My Feelings Worksheet

This worksheet helps students express their feelings about anxiety and identify coping strategies they can use. It encourages self-reflection and emotional awareness.

Draw a picture of a time you felt worried or scared.

Think about what made you feel that way.

What did you do to feel better?

Did you talk to someone, take deep breaths, or something else?