Counselor's Toolbox

Erika Morris

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Counselor's Toolbox

Explore tools and resources counselors use

In this lesson, students will learn about the various tools and resources that a school counselor uses to help with problems and emotions. The students will then create their own 'toolbox' of coping skills and resources that they can take home. This lesson is essential as it helps young students understand the support available to them and equips them with basic emotional tools for resilience.

Audience

1st Grade Students

Time

1 hour

Approach

Explore tools and resources counselors use

Materials

Markers, Crayons, Scissors, Glue sticks, Printed 'toolbox' template, Discussion Guide, and Worksheet

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

Begin by welcoming the students and introducing the topic of the day: Tools and Resources Our School Counselor Uses.
Ask the students if they know what a school counselor does and list some of their ideas on the board.
Explain that a school counselor is someone who helps students with their problems and emotions.

Step 2

Discussion

15 mins

Use the provided Discussion Guide to facilitate a conversation about the different tools and resources a counselor might use (e.g., talking, listening, games, books).
Encourage students to share times they felt happy, sad, or needed help and discuss how a counselor can support them.

Step 3

Activity: Creating My Toolbox

25 mins

Hand out the printed 'toolbox' template worksheet to each student.
Explain that they will create their own toolbox of coping skills and resources.
Have students color and decorate their toolbox.
Inside the box, they can draw or write down tools they can use when they need help (e.g., talking to a counselor, taking deep breaths, reading a book).
Assist students as they work on their toolboxes.

Step 4

Closure

10 mins

Gather the students and have a few of them share their toolboxes with the class.
Review the importance of having tools to help with emotions and problems.
Encourage students to take their toolbox home and share it with their families.

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Discussion

Counselor's Toolbox Discussion

Discussion about the tools and resources that a school counselor uses to help students with problems and emotions.

What do you think a school counselor does?

Write ideas on the board, prompt students with examples if necessary.

Can you think of a time when you felt sad, happy, or needed help?

Encourage students to share their stories, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

How do you think a counselor can help you when you have these feelings?

List various tools and resources mentioned by students and add any key tools that were missed.

Worksheet

My Counselor Toolbox

Worksheet for students to create their own toolbox of coping skills and resources.

Color and decorate your toolbox template.

Encourage creativity.

Inside the box, draw or write down tools you can use when you need help (e.g., talking to a counselor, taking deep breaths, reading a book).

Discuss examples as a class before starting.