A comprehensive social skills and behavioral group lesson designed to teach students how to ease back into routines after breaks, monitor energy capacity, and avoid overwhelm using gentle, intentional strategies.
It doesn't have to be productive. Doing something purely for your own joy reminds you of who you are beneath the schedule.
One restorative thing I will do today just for myself (10–15 mins):
"Starting again slowly is still starting."
It is completely normal if things feel a little strange or clumsy at first. Your rhythm will return naturally day by day.
The COR Behavioral Group • Social Skills Curriculum Page 2 of 2
Gentle Target Strategy: "My sensory battery is low today. I'm going to sit at the edge table by the window for some quiet. I'll catch you at recess!"
The COR Behavioral Group • Scenario Task Cards Page 1 of 2
The COR Behavioral Group
Interactive Simulation & Quick Reference
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Card 5 • Sunday Night Routine Freeze Home Routine
Situation: It is 7:30 PM the night before returning to group or school. Your backpack is unpacked, your clothes are scattered, and you have not reviewed your schedule. You feel dread and want to avoid it completely.
Client A & B Script: Client A names 1 grounding anchor (warm shower or soothing music) before touching any school items.
Target Resolution: Set a 7-minute timer to pack just 1 folder and water bottle. Stop when timer rings. Let that be enough.
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Role Play #2: Full Interactive Group Simulation
Whole Group Activity
Scenario: "The Sudden Schedule Change": The BCBA announces that the regular calm routine is paused because an unannounced fire drill occurred, followed by an unexpected pop quiz. Noise and urgency rise across the room.
Role: Fast Finisher Acts impatient, tapping pencil, bragging that they are done, adding pressure to others.
Role: Overwhelmed Student Practices vocalizing battery state: "I need 60 seconds to take three deep breaths before I look at this."
Role: Peer Supporter Reminds group: "We don't need to rush. Let's do problem #1 together slowly."
Desk Cue Card: My 4-Step Gentle Re-Entry Protocol Keep on Desk or Binder
1. Check Battery Notice physical signals. If battery is at 1 or 2, lower expectations immediately.
2. Anchor First Drink water, take 3 slow belly breaths, or gaze out window before touching tasks.
3. Only 2 Wins Pick two small actions for the morning. Say "Not today" to non-urgent demands.
4. Quiet the Noise When "I should do more" pops up, respond: "Slow and steady is enough today."
The COR Behavioral Group • Scenario Task Cards & Visual Tools Page 2 of 2