Calming Minds Lesson Plan Calming Minds
and Easing Worries Lesson Plan
Grade Level: 7th Grade
Duration: 45 Minutes
Topic: Anxiety & Coping
Learning Objective
Students will be able to identify symptoms of anxiety and apply practical coping strategies to manage stressful situations in their daily lives.
Instructional Approach
Restorative Practices, Trauma-Informed Teaching, Active Learning, Game-Based Learning.
Preparation & Materials
Post-it notes (various colors)
Pens or pencils
"Coping with Anxiety" Handouts
Poster board or designated wall space
Lesson Flow
5 MIN
Introduction: Setting the Tone
Welcome students and explain that today is about mental wellness. Define anxiety as a common experience for teens. Emphasize that the classroom is a safe, non-judgmental space.
10 MIN
Circle Discussion
Facilitate a restorative-style discussion. Ask: "What does anxiety feel like to you?" and "What triggers those feelings?" Ensure equitable participation by using a talking piece or structured turn-taking.
20 MIN
Activity: The Strategy Wall
Students brainstorm coping mechanisms on Post-its. Encourage them to think of things that work for their mind (thoughts), body (movement), and environment (music, space).
Pro-tip: Categorize the wall into "Quick Fixes" (breathing) and "Long-term habits" (routine/exercise).
5 MIN
Reflection: Exit Ticket
Distribute exit tickets. Students write one new strategy and one lingering question. This helps identify students who may need more targeted support.
5 MIN
Closure: Affirmation
End with a group affirmation. Remind them: "Your feelings are valid, and you have the tools to manage them."
Trauma-Informed Notes
Some students may find discussing triggers overwhelming. Always offer a "pass" option. If a student becomes visibly distressed, allow them to step into a designated "calm down" area or speak with a counselor. Focus on strengths and resilience rather than just the symptoms.
Coping with Anxiety Discussion Slides Calming Minds
and Easing Worries
An Interactive Discussion on Anxiety & Coping
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome.
"It's like your brain's alarm system is a little too sensitive."
How does it feel?
Restless or on edge
Easily fatigued
Hard to concentrate
Feeling irritable
Muscle tension
Trouble sleeping
What triggers anxiety?
Tests & Grades
Making Friends
Public Speaking
New Environments
Social Media
Family Stress
What are some things that trigger YOU?
Your Strategies
"What strategies have you used to cope with anxiety in the past?"
Share Out
Listen Well
Ready for some new tools?
Let's look at the Coping with Anxiety Handout and start building our "Strategy Wall"!
Mindfulness
Exercise
Positivity
Coping with Anxiety Reference Sheet Coping with Anxiety
Student Reference Guide
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. It is a natural response to stress, but sometimes it can feel overwhelming. It affects both your mind and your body.
Symptoms
Feeling restless or on edge
Being easily fatigued
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Muscle tension
Sleep disturbances
Remember...
"Everyone feels anxious sometimes. These tools are here to help you find your calm when the 'alarm' goes off."
Coping Strategies
Deep Breathing
Take slow, deep breaths to calm your body.
Mindfulness
Stay present. Focus on what you see and hear.
Exercise
Movement releases 'feel-good' chemicals.
Talk It Out
Share your feelings with someone you trust.
Creative Activities
Try art, music, or journaling.
Routine
Stick to a schedule to feel in control.
Cómo Lidiar con la Ansiedad
Guía de Referencia para Estudiantes
¿Qué es la Ansiedad?
La ansiedad es una sensación de preocupación, nerviosismo o inquietud acerca de algo cuyo resultado es incierto. Es una respuesta natural al estrés, pero a veces puede sentirse abrumadora. Afecta tanto tu mente como tu cuerpo.
Síntomas
Sentirse inquieto o nervioso
Fatigarse fácilmente
Dificultad para concentrarse
Irritabilidad
Tensión muscular
Problemas de sueño
Recuerda...
"Todos nos sentimos ansiosos a veces. Estas herramientas están aquí para ayudarte a encontrar tu calma cuando se activa la 'alarma'."
Estrategias para Lidiar con Ella
Respiración Profunda
Respira lenta y profundamente para calmarte.
Atención Plena
Mantente en el momento. Observa tu entorno.
Ejercicio
El movimiento mejora tu estado de ánimo.
Habla sobre ello
Comparte lo que sientes con alguien de confianza.
Actividades Creativas
Usa el arte, la música o la escritura.
Rutina
Mantén un horario para sentir estabilidad.
New Coping Strategy Exit Ticket Exit Ticket
Calming Minds & Easing Worries
Name: _______________________
Date: ________________________
1. Write down one new coping strategy you learned today.
2. Do you have any questions or comments about managing anxiety?
Thanks for sharing!
Exit Ticket
Calming Minds & Easing Worries
Name: _______________________
Date: ________________________
1. Write down one new coping strategy you learned today.
2. Do you have any questions or comments about managing anxiety?
Thanks for sharing!
