Quick Break Lesson Plan Quick Break
Lesson Plan • Grade 2
30 Min
Learning Objective
Students will design a personalized "Break Card" and identify at least one appropriate classroom activity for self-regulation.
Key Concepts
Self-Regulation
Proactive Choice
Safe Spaces
Emotional Safety
Required Materials
Quick Break Slides
Break Card Craft Kit
Break Choice Sort
Scissors & Glue
Instructional Arc
1
Introduction (5 min)
Discuss feelings of being overwhelmed. Introduce the idea of a "Quick Break" as a tool for success, not a punishment.
2
Guided Lesson (10 min)
Watch the regulation video and complete the "Good Break vs. Not a Good Break" sorting activity as a class or in small groups.
3
Hands-on Craft (15 min)
Students create their personalized "Quick Break" tickets. They list one classroom-safe activity they can do during their break.
Instructional Details
Introduction 5 Minutes
The "Full Tank" Hook
Use the "Gas Tank" analogy: Sometimes our "patience tank" gets low. When we get frustrated or wiggly, we need a quick pit stop to refuel.
"Have you ever felt like your brain is too loud or your body is too wiggly? That's your body saying: I need a quick break!"
Concept Sort 10 Minutes
What is a 'Good' Break?
Show the video (if available). Then, hand out the "Break Choice Sort."
Discuss: Why is taking a nap *not* a good quick break in class? (Too long!)
Discuss: Why is deep breathing a *great* break? (Quiet, can do at desk!)
Key Rule: A quick break helps us get BACK to work, not get OUT of work.
Application 15 Minutes
The Ticket to Calm
Students personalize their "Quick Break" tickets. This gives them agency and a physical reminder of their plan.
Teacher Prompt
"On your ticket, write one thing that helps YOU feel calm. Is it counting to 10? Drawing? Water?"
Storage Idea
Tape the cards to the corner of student desks or keep them in a "Calm Down Kit" basket.
Differentiation & Support
For Struggling Learners
Provide pre-cut images of calm-down activities for students who struggle with writing or drawing from scratch.
For Advanced Learners
Challenge students to create a "Break Menu" with 3 different options for different types of feelings (e.g., "Mad" vs "Tired").
Quick Break Slides All Aboard!
My Ticket to a
Quick Break
Learning how to stay calm and ready for class!
Personal Pass
Self-Regulation
Listen to Your Body
Feeling Mad
Face feels hot, hands are tight, heart is racing.
Feeling Tired
Can't keep eyes open, body feels heavy or slow.
Feeling Wiggly
Can't sit still, hands want to touch everything.
"It is okay to stop and refuel!"
Watch & Learn
It's Okay to Take a Break
Video Placeholder
To complete this lesson, please provide a YouTube URL and I will embed it here!
The Golden Rule
A Good Break is...
Quick! (2-5 minutes only)
Quiet! (Doesn't disturb others)
Refueling! (Helps you get back to work)
Think About It!
If you go for a run around the school for an hour... is that a quick break?
NO! That is a long workout!
Break Card Craft Kit Break Card Craft Kit
Student Activity
Name:
Date:
How to Make Your Ticket
1. Color your ticket! 2. Draw your favorite "Quick Break" activity. 3. Cut along the dashed line. 4. Keep it at your desk for when you need to refuel!
Admit One
Quick Break
Valid: In the Classroom
Traveler Name:
My Favorite Way to Refuel:
(Draw a picture of your break above!)
Refuel Station
I promise to use my break quietly and get back to work!
Authorized By
Spare Ticket (Optional)
Back-up Pass
Break Choice Sort Break Choice Sort
Is it a GOOD Quick Break or NOT?
Name: ______________________
Date: _______________________
YES!
This is a GOOD Quick Break.
It is quiet and short!
NO WAY!
This is NOT a Quick Break.
It takes too long or is too loud!
"Remember: A Quick Break helps our brain get ready to work again!"
Cutting Page
Cut along the dashed lines!
5 Deep Breaths
Quietly at your desk.
Watch a Movie
Takes about 2 hours.
A Drink of Water
A quick trip to the fountain.
Going Camping
Leaving school for the weekend.
Draw for 2 Minutes
Using a scrap of paper.
Yelling Loudly
In the middle of the room.
Count to 10
Inside your head.
Bake Cookies
Using the oven at home.