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Self-Care: My Superpower!

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Lesson Plan

Self-Care: My Superpower!

Students will define self-care, identify its benefits, and practice two simple self-care techniques applicable to their daily routines.

Understanding and practicing self-care helps students manage stress, improve emotional well-being, and build resilience. This is especially important as they navigate the challenges of middle school.

Audience

6th Grade Small Group

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Through discussion, a short presentation, and a hands-on activity, students will explore self-care.

Materials

Whiteboard or Projector, Markers or Pens, Self-Care Superpower Slides, Self-Care Challenge Cards Activity, and Self-Care Reflection Cool Down

Prep

Gather Materials & Review

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up: What is Self-Care?

5 minutes

  • Begin by asking students: "When you hear the words 'self-care,' what comes to mind?" Write their responses on the board. (2 minutes)
    - Guide a brief discussion, emphasizing that self-care is anything we do to take care of our physical, mental, and emotional health. (3 minutes)

Step 2

Self-Care Superpower Presentation

10 minutes

  • Present the Self-Care Superpower Slides to the group. (5 minutes)
    - Focus on explaining the definition of self-care, its importance, and examples relevant to 6th graders.
    - Encourage questions and comments throughout the presentation. (5 minutes)

Step 3

Activity: Self-Care Challenge Cards

10 minutes

  • Introduce the Self-Care Challenge Cards Activity. (2 minutes)
    - Explain that each card describes a simple self-care action. Students will take turns picking a card and sharing how they could incorporate that action into their week.
    - Facilitate the activity, ensuring all students participate and share their ideas. Encourage creative and realistic approaches. (8 minutes)

Step 4

Cool-Down: Reflection

5 minutes

  • Distribute the Self-Care Reflection Cool Down. (1 minute)
    - Ask students to write down one self-care practice they commit to trying this week.
    - Invite a few students to share their commitments with the group, if they feel comfortable. (4 minutes)
    - Conclude by reinforcing that self-care is an ongoing journey and a valuable skill for their well-being.
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Slide Deck

Self-Care: Your Superpower!

What is Self-Care?

It's all about taking care of YOU!

Self-care means doing things that keep your mind, body, and feelings healthy and happy.

It's not selfish; it's essential!

Welcome students and introduce the topic of self-care. Ask them what comes to mind when they hear 'self-care' and record their responses. Connect their ideas to the presentation's theme.

Why is Self-Care Important?

It helps you:

  • Feel happier and less stressed.
  • Have more energy.
  • Focus better in school.
  • Handle tough feelings.
  • Be a good friend and family member.

It makes you stronger and more resilient!

Explain why self-care is so important, especially for 6th graders who are experiencing many changes. Emphasize that it helps them be their best selves.

Self-Care Examples

For Your Body:

  • Getting enough sleep
  • Eating healthy snacks
  • Playing outside
  • Drinking water
  • Taking a warm bath/shower

For Your Mind:

  • Reading a fun book
  • Doing a puzzle
  • Learning something new
  • Drawing or creating art
  • Listening to music

For Your Feelings:

  • Talking to a trusted adult
  • Spending time with friends
  • Writing in a journal
  • Deep breathing exercises
  • Cuddling a pet

Provide clear, age-appropriate examples of self-care. Encourage students to think of their own examples as well. Use a conversational tone.

Your Self-Care Journey

Self-care isn't one-size-fits-all! What works for one person might not work for another.

It's about finding what makes you feel good and recharging your batteries.

Let's explore some ideas together!

Transition to the activity. Explain that self-care looks different for everyone and the upcoming activity will help them explore what works for them.

Remember Your Superpower!

Self-care is a skill you'll use your whole life.

Make time for yourself, even just a few minutes a day.

You deserve to feel your best!

Conclude by reminding students that self-care is a continuous practice and an important tool for life.

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Activity

Self-Care Challenge Cards

Instructions: Cut out these cards. Students will take turns picking a card, reading the self-care action, and sharing how they could realistically incorporate this into their week. Discuss as a group if there are any challenges or easy ways to do it.

Card 1: Hydration Hero

Drink a full glass of water when you wake up in the morning.












Card 2: Mindful Moment

Take 3 deep, slow breaths when you feel stressed or overwhelmed.












Card 3: Movement Master

Spend 15 minutes moving your body in a way you enjoy (e.g., dancing, walking, playing a sport).












Card 4: Creative Corner

Spend 10 minutes drawing, doodling, writing, or playing an instrument.












Card 5: Connect & Chat

Talk to a friend, family member, or trusted adult about your day for 5-10 minutes.












Card 6: Nature Nurturer

Spend 10 minutes outside, noticing what you see, hear, or feel.












Card 7: Screen Break

Take a 30-minute break from screens (phone, tablet, TV, computer) and do something else.












Card 8: Tidy Up Time

Spend 5-10 minutes tidying your personal space (desk, bed, backpack).












Card 9: Reflect & Write

Write down one thing you are grateful for or one good thing that happened today.












Card 10: Music & Mood

Listen to your favorite calming or energizing music for 10 minutes.












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Cool Down

Self-Care Reflection Cool Down

Instructions: Think about all the self-care ideas we discussed today. In the space below, write down one self-care practice you commit to trying this week.

My Self-Care Commitment:

















Why is this particular practice important to you?

















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