Self-Control Plan
Help a 1st grader recognize emotional triggers and practice a personalized cool-down routine by tracking feelings and reflecting on progress.
Building self-control early empowers students to manage emotions, reduce classroom disruptions, and grow confidence in handling challenges.
One-on-one guided activities with targeted materials.
Prep
Prepare Materials and Environment
5 minutes
Step 1
Introduction to Superpower
3 minutes
- Greet the student and explain that self-control is like a superpower
- Show My Superpower Slides covering what triggers feelings and what self-control means
- Ask the student to share a time they felt upset
Step 2
Identify Triggers
4 minutes
- Use the slides to discuss common school triggers (e.g., loud noises, mistakes)
- Model completing the first row of Trigger Tracker Worksheet together: describe situation, emotion, intensity
- Encourage the student to think of one personal trigger to note
Step 3
Track and Discuss Triggers
3 minutes
- Have the student fill in a second row on the worksheet independently with guidance
- Ask follow-up questions: “How did that make you feel?” and “What happened next?”
- Validate their feelings and offer positive reinforcement
Step 4
Practice Cool-Down Strategy
3 minutes
- Introduce the student’s personalized cool-down technique (e.g., 5 deep breaths, counting to five, or squeezing a stress ball)
- Role-play a triggering scenario and have the student practice the technique
- Praise accurate use of the strategy and correct gently as needed
Step 5
Reflection and Goal Setting
2 minutes
- Guide the student to draw or write about how they felt after using their superpower in the Superpower Reflection Journal
- Set one simple goal for the next session (e.g., use breathing when upset once this week)
- Close with positive affirmation of their effort
