Sensory Breaks

Class-wide toolkit for quick, on-the-spot sensory resets – promotes self-regulation and keeps everyone engaged throughout the day. This 20-minute Tier 1 lesson for 2nd graders introduces simple strategies and fun activities to help students recognize and reset their energy levels, fostering a calm, focused classroom environment.

In this 15-minute Tier 1 sensory regulation session for 2nd graders, students will engage in a Brain Dance warm-up, explore various sensory tools, participate in a guided sensory break, and wrap up with a Mood Meter check-in. This resource helps maintain attention, reduce stress, and build self-regulation skills in the classroom.

In this lesson, kindergarten students will learn how to independently take a sensory break by implementing a sensory diet. This lesson is important as it helps young learners recognize their sensory needs and manage their emotions and energy levels effectively. By practicing sensory breaks, students can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance their overall well-being.

A short, evidence-based 10-minute break routine for a 3rd grade student feeling overwhelmed. This Tier 3 individualized support lesson teaches coping skills through movement and breathing exercises to help students self-regulate and return to learning ready and calm.

Individualized sessions for a 5th grade student to explore their unique sensory preferences and coping strategies, empowering them to self-advocate and self-regulate effectively. This Tier 3 program includes practical tools and reflections to support emotional and behavioral well-being.

This lesson plan is designed to help kindergarten students learn to express their need for a break in a constructive manner. Over six weeks, students will engage in fun and simple activities that promote self-regulation and communication skills. This lesson is important as it empowers young students to manage their emotions and communicate effectively, fostering a supportive classroom environment.

A 6-session individual counseling curriculum designed to help 1st–5th graders develop sensory awareness and self-regulation skills. Clinical staff will learn to guide students through sensory profiling, calming strategies, and personalized regulation plans in 30-minute sessions.

Use this decision-making tool to help kindergarteners recognize when they need a sensory break, promoting self-management and impulse control. This individual Tier 3 lesson equips young learners with strategies to self-regulate in just one 8-minute session.

In this K-2 lesson, students will create and use a sensory corner to practice self-regulation through guided sensory activities. This lesson supports emotional wellness and helps young learners explore tools like stress balls, fidget toys, and calming visuals to manage stress and emotions effectively.

An activity-driven session teaching mindful movement breaks to manage restlessness and impulsivity. Perfect for quick behavior resets for 2nd–3rd graders in small group settings.

A 20-session, 5-minute Tier 3 individual program for a 3rd grader with autism to learn how to choose and use sensory diet activities for self-regulation. This lesson supports sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding needs through targeted practice, helping the student increase independence and self-awareness.

A 20-session, 5-minute Tier 3 individual program for a 3rd grader with autism to learn how to choose and use sensory diet activities for self-regulation. This lesson supports sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding needs through targeted practice, helping the student increase independence and self-awareness.

In this lesson, kindergarteners will explore various sensory tools through a fun and interactive game. The goal is to help students understand how these tools can be used to calm down and manage emotions. This lesson is important as it introduces young learners to self-regulation techniques in a playful manner, fostering emotional awareness and resilience.

This lesson focuses on understanding and managing sensory overstimulation and dysregulation, crucial for students' well-being and academic success. Designed for 9th graders, it provides strategies to cope with sensory challenges in a 30-minute session, ensuring all students can thrive in a classroom environment.

In this 6-session lesson designed for kindergarteners, students will explore and identify their sensory preferences and understand how these preferences affect their emotions and behaviors. This lesson is crucial for helping young learners develop self-awareness and emotional regulation skills, empowering them to navigate their world with confidence.

In this brief 15-minute small-group session, 3rd grade students will learn and practice simple, energizing brain breaks to reset attention, boost self-regulation, and prepare for challenging tasks. These quick, movement-based resets empower learners with executive function strategies to recharge focus and approach work with renewed energy.

In this single 20-minute lesson, PreK students with autism will learn to independently ask for a break using visual supports. This vital skill fosters self-advocacy, regulation, and classroom engagement.

These 10-minute personalized mindfulness sessions are tailored for a 5th grade student to practice breathing and focus techniques, reduce anxiety, and build self-regulation skills. This Tier 3 (Individual) support provides engaging, age-appropriate activities to help the student refocus during the school day.

This lesson involves setting up sensory exploration stations where students can engage their senses through activities like listening, touching, and smelling. This lesson is important as it helps young students develop mindfulness and sensory awareness, which are crucial for their emotional and cognitive development. By engaging in these activities, students can improve their focus, relaxation, and understanding of their sensory experiences.

In this 15-minute individual session for a kindergarten student with sensory processing disorder and ADHD, learners will explore quick, everyday self-regulation techniques and practice pausing before reacting. This lesson builds emotional awareness and gives the child concrete tools (deep breaths, wall push, counting) to manage big feelings in the moment.

Students will learn simple, fun brain breaks to boost focus, calm their minds, and re-energize during the school day. This engaging 15-minute Tier 1 lesson for 1st graders supports self-regulation, classroom engagement, and social-emotional wellness.

This lesson involves setting up different sensory stations where students can engage their senses through focused activities like listening, touching, and smelling. This lesson is important as it helps students develop mindfulness and sensory awareness, which are crucial for their emotional and cognitive development. By engaging in these activities, students can improve their focus, calmness, and ability to process sensory information.

Students will rotate through different stations, each focusing on a specific self-regulation skill such as deep breathing, positive self-talk, and emotions check-in. This hands-on lesson is designed to be interactive and engaging. It will help students develop essential self-regulation skills that are crucial for their emotional and academic success.

In this 15-minute, Tier 2 intervention, an individual student will learn to use short, targeted brain breaks to refocus and self-regulate. This lesson equips the student with a rotation plan, engaging visuals, timers, and reflection tools to build independence and boost attention.

In this 90-minute Tier 2 workshop, teachers will learn research-backed techniques to support students with ADHD and sensory needs in small group settings. This session empowers educators with practical strategies and adaptable classroom tools to promote attention, self-regulation, and inclusive learning environments.

In this one-session Pre-K lesson, students become "Emotion Superheroes" by learning simple self-regulation techniques like deep breathing, movement breaks, and calm-down strategies. This lesson builds emotional awareness and helps young learners manage big feelings in the classroom—and beyond. (Audience: Pre-K, Tier 1, Duration: 30 minutes)

In this 90-minute, Tier 1 professional development session, K-12 teachers will learn practical strategies to support students with ADHD and sensory needs. Participants will explore evidence-based classroom accommodations, sensory tools, and inclusive teaching approaches that enhance attention, engagement, and self-regulation for all learners.

This lesson guides students on a sensory walk, encouraging them to use their senses to explore their environment. This mindfulness exercise helps students center themselves, improving focus and reducing anxiety. By engaging with their surroundings, students learn to be present in the moment, which can enhance their emotional well-being and concentration.

This lesson introduces students to mindful movement breaks, including guided stretches and breathing exercises. These activities are designed to help students manage anxiety and enhance concentration, providing essential tools for their emotional and mental well-being. By integrating these techniques throughout the day, students can learn to refocus and destress effectively.

This 15-minute Tier 1 behavioral support routine introduces kindergarteners to three brief mindfulness exercises—Breathing Balloon, Five Senses Scan, and Peaceful Posture—to help reduce stress, build self-control, and foster emotional awareness in the classroom.

In this 30-minute, one-session Tier 1 lesson for Kindergarten, students will become “Sensory Superheroes” by exploring their five senses and discovering simple tools to help their bodies stay calm and focused. This fun, hands-on lesson builds self-awareness and self-regulation skills essential for learning success.

A 2-session, individualized 5th-grade special education lesson teaching self-advocacy and coping strategies (deep breathing, asking for breaks) to manage emotional dysregulation. Includes kinesthetic activities, discussion, a video, and a project to reinforce skills.

Short guided mindfulness exercises to help a 10th grade student regulate stress and sharpen focus through individualized Tier 3 support. Single 10-minute session focusing on self-management skills.

This small-group intervention helps Pre-K students develop calming strategies through a dedicated safe space. Over one 20-minute session, children will explore sensory tools and reflect on their emotions, supporting self-regulation and emotional security.

A small-group toolkit teaching self-regulation through sensory strategies and mindfulness exercises for 2nd grade. Over four 25-minute sessions, students will explore sensory strategies, create tactile bottles, and develop a mood monitoring habit to support emotional regulation. Tier 2 group support.

This lesson introduces PreK students to mindfulness through engaging activities that help them recognize and manage their emotions. By using fun and interactive methods, children will learn simple strategies to calm themselves and focus, which are essential skills for emotional regulation and overall well-being.

In this 30-minute interactive session, 6th and 7th graders with emotional disabilities will explore self-care strategies to thrive during the summer break. Students will discuss challenges they may face, play a creative game, and engage in a hands-on activity to build a personalized self-care plan. This lesson equips them with tools to manage stress and maintain emotional well-being.

This lesson introduces students to quick and engaging 'brain breaks' that incorporate movement and laughter. These activities are designed to rejuvenate students' minds and bodies, enhancing their readiness to learn. By providing a fun and interactive break, students can reset and refocus, improving their overall learning experience.

In this 75-minute, whole-class workshop, adult learners will explore the Zones of Regulation framework and build a personalized, portable sensory toolbox for real-world self-regulation. This lesson encourages creativity, hands-on practice, and equips participants with practical tools they can use daily.

A 15-minute individual mini-lesson designed to help a kindergarten student practice following directions and keeping hands and body to themselves through engaging, movement-based activities. This lesson focuses on self-regulation, body awareness, and positive reinforcement.

This lesson introduces students to a series of gentle, mindful movements and stretches that serve as a refresh break during the school day. These activities are designed to help reduce stress and increase focus, providing a physical outlet for emotions and energy. By incorporating mindful movement, students can enhance their ability to concentrate and manage stress effectively.

A quick whole-class sensory break routine to help 2nd graders recognize and manage their energy levels—you’ll see calmer, more focused students afterward. This Tier 1 lesson is designed for a 2nd grade class and runs for one 10-minute session.

This lesson introduces PreK students to basic mindfulness techniques through engaging and interactive activities. By focusing on recognizing and managing emotions, students will develop foundational skills in emotional awareness and self-regulation. This lesson is important as it helps young learners build a toolkit for emotional resilience, which is crucial for their overall mental health and well-being.

This lesson plan is designed to help elementary teachers facilitate self-regulation in the classroom through engaging activities. By using a combination of video, games, and discussion, students will learn to identify and manage their emotions effectively. This lesson is important as it equips students with essential skills for emotional regulation, promoting a positive and supportive classroom environment.

A single-session 15-minute Tier 2 lesson for Pre-K students on mindful awareness and simple stress-busting strategies.

In this 30-minute individual lesson, your kindergarten student will learn how and why to ask for a break using a simple signal and understanding self-regulation. This Tier 3 intervention equips the student with tools to recognize when they need a pause and communicate it effectively.

In this lesson, students will engage in gentle movements and stretches paired with mindful breathing exercises. This session aims to promote relaxation and focus, aiding students in self-regulation and stress management. By incorporating these practices, students can enhance their ability to maintain attention throughout the school day, contributing to a more positive learning environment.

This short, targeted mindfulness session is designed for an individual 5th-grade student. In a focused 10-minute routine, the student will learn and practice breathing and focus techniques to reduce anxiety and build self-regulation skills.

This lesson guides kindergarten students in creating a 'Calm Down Corner' in the classroom where they can practice self-regulation strategies like deep breathing and using stress balls when they feel overwhelmed. It emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and self-care, helping students understand how to manage their emotions effectively. This lesson is important as it equips young learners with essential skills for emotional regulation, contributing to a positive classroom environment and supporting their overall well-being.

This series of lessons is designed to teach self-regulation skills to 4th graders, particularly those with ADHD. Through a sequence of engaging and interactive activities, students will learn to recognize emotions, improve focus, manage impulsivity, and apply self-regulation strategies in daily life. This series is important as it provides a comprehensive approach to developing essential skills that enhance learning and personal growth.

'Mindful Meanderings' guides students through a sensory journey around the classroom or outdoors, encouraging mindfulness by paying attention to scents, sounds, and sights. This sensory exploration helps students develop awareness and emotional regulation skills, suitable for K-2 students.

A quick intervention using timed sensory breaks and breathing techniques to recalibrate attention for individual learners. This 15-minute, Tier 3 lesson supports an 8th-grade student in Special Education by providing targeted, sensory-rich activities to boost focus and self-regulation.

An individualized toolkit students build with strategies tailored to their sensory profiles, empowering them to self-regulate in diverse environments. This Tier 3 lesson for a 5th grade student spans a 60-minute session and focuses on self-regulation through sensory awareness. Students will assess their sensory needs, explore regulation strategies, and assemble a personalized toolbox.

Enable students to create personal 'breathing spaces' in class, geared towards grade 6, to practice short, focused mindfulness techniques. This lesson emphasizes stress reduction and self-regulation, fostering an environment where students can learn to manage their emotions better.

This lesson helps individual students understand the importance of taking a break when feeling overwhelmed. They learn strategies to calm down and return to tasks with a clear mind, specifically designed for a 9th-grade student. The session lasts 35 minutes and focuses on Tier 3 individual support to manage emotions effectively.

A small-group routine of short mindfulness exercises that reinforce self-management and self-awareness competencies, helping 6th-grade students regulate emotions, improve focus, and build self-awareness in just 15 minutes. Perfect for Tier 2 support to prepare students for challenging tasks.

This lesson introduces students to the concept of self-regulation through a combination of reading, video, and interactive activities. By understanding and practicing self-regulation, students can better manage their emotions and behaviors, leading to improved focus and cooperation in the classroom. This lesson is crucial for developing emotional intelligence and fostering a positive learning environment.

A daily 10-minute routine for 2nd graders to build mindfulness, improve focus, and self-regulation through engaging grounding, listening, and body scan practices. This Tier 1 lesson helps students start their day centered and ready to learn.

This lesson introduces young students to self-management strategies through a fun and engaging game-based approach. Using the 'Song: Calm Body Calm Mind' video, students will learn the importance of self-regulation and practice deep breathing exercises. The lesson includes an interactive game to reinforce these skills, helping students manage their energy and impulsive behaviors effectively. This lesson is crucial for developing foundational self-regulation skills, which are essential for emotional well-being and academic success.

This 5-session lesson for K-3 students explores the world of sensory experiences through fun and interactive activities. Students will engage with materials like oobleck, water beads, and kinetic sand to understand textures and states of matter, enhancing their sensory awareness and fine motor skills.

This 9-session lesson is designed for a kindergarten student to help them identify and understand their sensory preferences. Through engaging activities, games, and discussions, the student will explore their five senses, enhancing self-awareness and promoting sensory integration. Each session lasts 30 minutes, focusing on individual support to cater to the student's unique needs.

Introduce Kindergartners and 1st graders to the basics of mindfulness through calming exercises and relaxation techniques aimed at improving focus and emotional regulation. This lesson supports students in developing early self-regulation and concentration skills in a fun, age-appropriate way. Audience: Kindergarten and 1st Grade; Sessions: 1; Duration: 30 minutes.

This 5-session lesson series introduces students in grades 5-8 to mindfulness practices, helping them develop focus, emotional regulation, and stress management skills. Each session is 10 minutes long, making it a perfect addition to daily routines. The use of visuals will enhance understanding and engagement, catering to diverse learning needs.

This lesson introduces middle school students to self-regulation techniques through a creative mix of art and calming exercises. By exploring emotions through coloring and guided imagery, students learn to manage stress and anxiety, enhancing their emotional toolkit. This lesson is important as it equips students with essential skills to handle emotional challenges, promoting mental well-being and resilience.

Short, focused 20-minute sessions for 6th grade small groups to practice breathing and mindfulness techniques that boost emotional regulation and self-control. Builds students’ awareness of stress signals and coping skills through consistent practice.

This lesson plan is designed to help kindergarten students learn emotion regulation strategies through engaging and interactive activities. Over five sessions, students will explore different emotions and learn techniques to manage them effectively. The lessons incorporate game-based and active learning strategies, making them suitable for young learners with limited reading abilities. By the end of the lessons, students will have a toolkit of strategies to help them regulate their emotions, promoting better social interactions and personal well-being.

This lesson aims to help students develop focus and emotional regulation skills through active learning. Using a catchy song about self-regulation, students will engage in breathing exercises and a hands-on activity to practice calming techniques. This lesson is important as it provides students with tools to manage their emotions and improve their ability to follow rules, which can reduce tantrums and enhance their learning experience.

This lesson introduces 2nd graders to self-regulation through a fun and engaging video, followed by a simple activity to practice the skills learned. Self-regulation is crucial for young students as it helps them manage their emotions and behaviors, leading to better learning outcomes and social interactions. By incorporating trauma-informed teaching strategies, the lesson ensures a supportive and safe environment for all students.

In this 45-minute session for Grades K-2, students rotate through three engaging stations—yoga, breathing exercises, and mindful walking—to build self-awareness and emotional regulation skills through movement. This lesson is important because it introduces young learners to foundational mindfulness practices that support focus, calm, and a positive classroom environment.

In this 6-session individual support series, a 4th grade student will build skills in emotion regulation, growth mindset, and positive self-talk. Each 30-minute session offers structured activities, readings, games, and reflective exercises tailored to IEP needs, empowering the student to navigate emotions and develop resilience.

A focused small-group series guiding 3rd graders through short mindfulness exercises and breathing techniques to reduce stress and improve concentration in 20-minute sessions. Ideal for Tier 2 group support, this lesson equips students with emotional regulation skills and fosters a calm learning environment.

Individual mindfulness practice to help 7th graders calm their minds, regulate emotions, and improve self-control through brief guided exercises. This 20-minute session empowers students with self-management skills that support emotional well-being.

An individualized support plan providing real-time impulse control strategies and visual reminders for a 4th grade student, fostering self-regulation and confidence during 20-minute one-on-one sessions.

This small-group mini-unit introduces quick mindfulness exercises to reduce anxiety and build self-regulation skills for 4th graders. Over 30-minute sessions, students will learn and practice simple breathing and reflection techniques to manage stress.

An individualized plan for 2nd grade students teaching short mindfulness exercises to build impulse control and calm their minds. This 15-minute Tier 3 session helps students develop self-management skills through guided breathing and reflection.