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Respectful Interactions for Little Learners

Lesson Plan

Respectful Interactions for Little Learners

Help 1st graders with autism learn about personal space and respectful interactions using simple language and fun activities.

This lesson helps young learners understand personal boundaries, making them feel safe and respected while interacting with friends and adults.

Audience

1st Grade Student with Autism

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Simple language, visuals, and fun, interactive activities.

Materials

Personal Space Worksheet, and Respectful Interactions Discussion

Prep

Prepare Visual Aids and Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

  • Explain in simple words what personal space means (the area around us where we feel safe).
  • Use a visual aid or picture to show a safe space around a person.

Step 2

Story Time and Visual Discussion

5 mins

  • Read a short story or show pictures about a character who likes having space around them.
  • Discuss with the students how the character feels when someone comes too close.

Step 3

Activity: Personal Space Circle

10 mins

  • Use a hula hoop or rope to mark a circle on the floor for each student.
  • Have each student stand in their circle and gently approach a friend until they reach the edge, then stop.
  • Ask the students how it feels to stay in their space.

Step 4

Worksheet Time

5 mins

  • Help students complete a simple Personal Space Worksheet using pictures and words.
  • Encourage them to draw or color situations where someone shows respect for personal space.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

  • Gather the students in a circle and review what they learned about personal space.
  • Ask a few students to share one way they can respect others' space.
  • Use visual thumbs or smiley faces as an exit ticket to show understanding.
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Discussion

Respectful Interactions Discussion

Let's talk about personal space in a fun and simple way!


What is personal space?

It's the space around you where you feel happy and safe. Can you point to your own space? Draw a circle around you if you can!





How do you know if someone needs more space?

Look for gentle hints! If a friend steps back or smiles shyly, they might need a little more room. Can you show me what that looks like?





Why is it nice to keep our personal space safe?

When we keep our space safe, we help each other feel happy and comfortable. Can you share one way you can keep your space and also respect your friends' space?





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Worksheet

Personal Space Worksheet

Let's learn about personal space with pictures and fun activities!


What is Personal Space?

Personal space is your cozy area where you feel safe and happy. Look at the picture below that shows a person with a big circle around them.



Picture showing a person with a circle around them to represent personal space






Now, draw a big circle around a part of yourself that makes you feel safe.





When Someone is Too Close

Sometimes, if someone gets too close, it can feel a little uncomfortable. Look at the picture below showing two people with one too close and then with appropriate space.



Picture comparing too close and safe distances for personal space






Now, draw a picture of someone standing with space around them.





How Can You Keep Your Space Cozy?

Think of one simple way to keep your space safe. Look at the picture below of a person happily playing in their own space.



Picture of a person enjoying their personal space






Write or draw your idea here:










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Quiz

Respectful Behavior Quiz

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Respectful Interactions for Little Learners • Lenny Learning