I’m updating the “Mindful DBT Journey Script” with word-for-word teacher scripts for all 16 sessions. You can review and let me know if any tweaks are needed!

Glitter Jar Visualization Worksheet

Use this handout to guide you through the glitter jar mindfulness exercise. Shake your jar and watch the glitter settle as you follow the steps below.

1. Before You Shake
How do you feel right now? Write or draw your current mood and body sensations.

2. Draw Your Jar
In the space below, sketch your glitter jar. Include where the glitter starts and where it lands when it settles.

[Drawing Space]

3. Notice Your Thoughts
As you watch the glitter swirl, what thoughts come up? Write down any words or images that pop into your mind.

4. Tune into Your Body
Pay attention to how your body feels as the glitter settles:

• Where do you feel calm or tight?
• What changes do you notice in your breathing?

Write or draw your observations:

5. After the Glitter Settles
When the glitter stops moving, take a deep breath in and out.

How would you describe your mood now?
Answer: ______________________________________

6. Reflection
When could you use your glitter jar in your day? List two moments:

Great job! Keep this handout near your glitter jar and use it whenever you need a moment to slow down and calm your mind.

Group Glitter Jar Practice

Use this guided group activity to practice the glitter jar mindfulness exercise together. Students will observe, reflect, and share insights in pairs and as a full group.

Materials

• Glitter jars (one per student)
• Glitter Jar Visualization Worksheet (one per student)
• Timer
• Clipboards or hard surface for writing/drawing

Activity Outline (30 minutes)

1. Setup & Introduction (5 min)
   • Gather students in a circle.
   • Remind them of today’s goal: practice noticing thoughts, feelings, and body sensations as the glitter settles.
   • Distribute glitter jars and worksheets.
2. Glitter Jar Observation (5 min)
   • Ask everyone to complete Step 1 (“Before You Shake”) on their worksheet.
   • At the count of three, have students shake their jars together.
   • Set the timer for 2 minutes of silent observation as the glitter swirls and settles.
3. Individual Reflection (5 min)[Allow drawing/writing space:]
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   • Invite students to finish Steps 2–5 on their worksheets while observing the jar again if needed.
   • Encourage drawing or writing:
     • What did you notice in your thoughts?
     • How did your breathing or body sensations change?
4. Pair Share (7 min)
   • Pair students up (or form small triads).
   • Provide these reflection prompts:
     1. What was your biggest “wow” moment watching the glitter?
     2. Which part of your body felt most calm or tense?
     3. How did your mood shift from start to finish?
   • Give each student 1–2 minutes to share and listen.
5. Whole-Group Debrief (5 min)
   • Reconvene as a circle.
   • Ask 3–4 volunteers to share one insight from their pair/trio discussion.
   • Reinforce: “Noticing small changes in our mind and body helps us practice mindfulness every day.”
6. Closure & Next Steps (3 min)
   • Have the group take three deep, slow breaths together.
   • Remind students to keep their Glitter Jar Visualization Worksheet and use it whenever they need a calm moment.
   • Collect worksheets or invite students to take them to their Calm Boxes for future use.

This group practice builds self-awareness and sharing skills while reinforcing the glitter jar mindfulness tool. Feel free to adjust pairing or timing for your class needs!