Healing Hearts Lesson Plan
Healing Hearts Together
Tier 2 Group Counseling • 6th Grade
Duration 30 Min
Objective
Students will be able to identify and express feelings related to grief and loss, and learn coping strategies in a supportive group setting.
Why This Matters
Grief and loss are natural parts of life. Providing a safe space for students to process these emotions helps them develop healthy coping mechanisms and emotional resilience. This lesson validates their feelings and offers tools for healing.
Preparation
- Review the Healing Hearts Slide Deck to familiarize yourself with the content.
- Print copies of the My Grief Journey Journal for each student.
- Ensure a private setting and have tissues readily available.
Session Outline
5 min
Welcome & Grounding
• Welcome students and establish a safe, confidential space.
• Emphasize that all feelings are welcome and there's no right or wrong way to feel.
• Lead the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercise (Deep breaths, noticing senses) using the slide deck.
10 min
Understanding Grief
• Discuss what grief/loss feel like—emphasize it's not just about death (moving, friendships, etc.).
• Discussion Prompts: "What are some different kinds of losses people experience?" and "How do these losses make people feel?"
• Teacher Note: Encourage general sharing. Remind students of confidentiality.
10 min
Personal Reflection Journal
• Distribute the My Grief Journey Journal.
• Guide students through the prompts on the slide deck, allowing quiet time to write.
• Remind them this is for personal reflection and sharing is optional.
5 min
Closing & Support
• Reiterate that healing takes time and it's okay to feel whatever they feel.
• Share resources: School counselor's office, trusted adults.
• Thank students for their participation and bravery.
Facilitation Tip
Be mindful of group dynamics. If a student becomes visibly upset, provide space for them to step out or offer one-on-one support immediately after the session.
Healing Hearts Slide Deck
Welcome, Everyone!
This is a safe space to share and understand big feelings.
Confidentiality Matters
What is said here, stays here.
Grounding Moment
- 5 things you can see
- 4 things you can feel
- 3 things you can hear
- 2 things you can smell
- 1 thing you can taste
Teacher Guide: Set the stage for safety and privacy
What is Grief and Loss?
It's more than just death...
- A loved one or pet passing
- Moving to a new place
- Friends growing apart
- Change in family routine
How does it feel?
Sadness Anger Confusion Numbness Empty Relief
All of these are 100% valid.
My Grief Journey
Writing can help us understand what's happening inside.
What does the word "loss" mean to you?
What are some feelings that come with loss?
What are some healthy ways people cope with big feelings?
If you could give advice to someone experiencing a loss, what would it be?
You Are Not Alone
Your feelings are valid and deserve kindness.
Healing is a journey, not a race.
Support is always available when you need it.
Where to find support
Trusted Adult School Counselor Close Friends
You are strong. You are resilient.
My Grief Journey Journal
My Grief Journey Journal
A safe space for reflection and expression.
Name:
Date:
This journal is yours. There are no right or wrong answers. You only need to share what you feel comfortable sharing. Use this space to honor your thoughts and feelings.
1
What does the word "loss" mean to you?
Think about different kinds of losses—changes, endings, or things you miss. It's not always about someone passing away.
2
What are some feelings that can come with loss?
List as many as you can think of. It's okay if they seem contradictory or "big."
3
What are some healthy ways people cope with big feelings?
Think about things you do, or things you've seen others do, that help without hurting yourself or others.
4
If you could give advice to someone experiencing a loss, what would it be?
Imagine a friend is going through a tough time. What kind words or helpful tips would you share?
You are strong and resilient.