Lesson Plan

Calming Toolbox Lesson Plan

Students will identify signs of anxiety and practice three coping strategies—deep breathing, positive self-talk, and grounding—to build a personalized Calming Toolbox.

Middle schoolers often struggle with anxiety; learning concrete coping skills fosters emotional resilience, self-awareness, and healthier stress management habits.

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Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction and Norm Setting

3 minutes

Step 2

Exploring Anxiety

5 minutes

Step 3

Deep Breathing Practice

7 minutes

Step 4

Positive Self-Talk Activity

7 minutes

Step 5

Grounding Exercise

6 minutes

Step 6

Reflection and Closing

2 minutes

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Slide Deck

Welcome to Your Calming Toolbox

Group Norms

Exploring Anxiety

Deep Breathing Exercise

Positive Self-Talk

Grounding Technique: 5-4-3-2-1

Reflection & Next Steps

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Worksheet

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Worksheet

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Worksheet

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Worksheet

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Worksheet

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Calming Toolbox

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Gabrielle Self

Tier 2
For Schools
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