Clay Calm Creations

Melissa Avery

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Clay Calm Creations

Practice relaxation using clay

In this lesson, students will engage in a hands-on activity using clay to create calming shapes or figures. This experiential learning approach allows students to explore relaxation techniques through tactile engagement, promoting stress and anxiety relief. The lesson is important as it provides students with a creative outlet to express emotions and develop coping strategies for stress management.

Audience

Grades 2-5, Small Group

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Project-Based Learning, Experiential Learning, Restorative Practices

Materials

Clay or playdough, and Discussion Questions Attachment

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Briefly introduce the concept of stress and anxiety.
Explain how creative activities like working with clay can help manage these feelings.
Set the objective: to create something with clay that makes them feel calm.

Step 2

Clay Activity

15 minutes

Distribute clay or playdough to each student.
Encourage students to mold the clay into shapes or figures that they find calming or soothing.
Walk around to provide support and encouragement, asking open-ended questions about their creations.

Step 3

Discussion

10 minutes

Gather students in a circle to share their creations.
Use the Discussion Questions Attachment to guide the conversation.
Encourage students to reflect on how the activity made them feel and discuss other ways they can use creative activities to manage stress.

Step 4

Closure

5 minutes

Summarize the key points discussed.
Reinforce the idea that creative activities can be a useful tool for relaxation.
Encourage students to try similar activities at home when they feel stressed.

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Discussion

Discussion Questions

This discussion will help students reflect on their experience with the clay activity and explore how creative activities can aid in stress management.

What did you create with your clay, and why did you choose that shape or figure?

Encourage students to share their thoughts and feelings about their creations. Ask them to consider why they chose specific shapes and how those shapes make them feel.

How did working with clay make you feel?

Guide students to reflect on their emotional state before, during, and after the activity. Discuss any changes they noticed.

Can you think of other activities that help you feel calm and relaxed?

Encourage students to brainstorm other creative or physical activities that help them manage stress and anxiety.