Strategy Showcase Slides The Maker Space
Strategy
Showcase
Let's explore sensory and self-regulation strategies. Think about how each one feels and if it helps you stay calm and focused.
1. Deep Breathing
What it is
Take slow, deep breaths in and out to reset your body.
How to do it
1 Breathe in (nose) for 4 counts.
2 Hold for 2 counts.
3 Breathe out (mouth) for 6 counts.
Why it helps
"Deep breathing slows your heart rate and helps your body calm down naturally."
2. Stress Ball / Fidget
What it is
A small squishy tool you can squeeze or manipulate.
How to use it
Squeeze slowly when you feel tense.
Roll it between your hands.
Why it helps
"Squeezing releases tight muscles and gives your brain something physical to focus on."
3. Movement Breaks
What it is
Short bursts of activity to reset your energy.
How to do it
Stretch your arms to the sky.
Shake out your hands and legs.
5 jumping jacks or march in place.
Why it helps
"Moving your body releases extra energy and helps you refocus your mind."
4. Listening to Music
What it is
Using headphones and calming sounds.
How to use it
Pick instrumental or nature sounds.
Keep volume at a safe level.
Why it helps
"Music can block out noisy distractions and help you feel more peaceful."
5. Visual Timer
What it is
A clock or app that shows time counting down.
How to use it
Set for a short break (2–5 minutes).
Watch the timer so you know when to stop.
Why it helps
"Seeing time pass helps you relax without worrying about losing track of time."
6. Positive Self-Talk
What it is
Saying kind, encouraging words to yourself.
Examples
"I can calm down."
"I'm doing my best."
"I've got this."
Why it helps
"Positive words change how you feel and help you stay confident."
7. Break Card
What it is
A card you show to ask for a quick break.
How to use it
Keep it on your desk or in your pocket.
Show it to your teacher when you need a reset.
Why it helps
"It gives you permission for a short reset without needing to speak."
8. Calming Jar
What it is
A bottle filled with water, glitter, and glue.
How to use it
Shake gently and watch the glitter swirl.
Breathe until the glitter settles.
Why it helps
"Watching the glitter float helps your mind slow down and relax."
Choose Your Top 3
Which strategies made you feel calm? Which are easiest to use? Which fit your needs?
Pick your favorites and we'll start building your toolkit!
Toolkit Creation Guide Project Project Phase: Planning & Design
Toolkit Creation Guide
Build your personalized Self-Regulation Toolkit
Student Name
Date
"Use this step-by-step guide to build your personalized Self-Regulation Toolkit. Follow each step, fill in the reflection prompts, and gather your materials to set yourself up for success!"
1
Review and Select Strategies
Open the Strategy Showcase slide-deck.
Review all strategies and choose three that help you the most.
Strategy Name Why It Helps Me
Reflection: Which strategy are you most excited to try first?
2
Identify Your Toolkit Components
List the tools or materials you'll need for each strategy (e.g., stress ball, headphones).
Strategy 1:
Strategy 2:
Strategy 3:
Why I Chose These Items:
3
Design Your Toolkit Plan
Decide how to organize your toolkit (box, folder, or bag).
Plan where you will keep it and when you will use it.
My Toolkit Design & Storage Plan (Sketch or Write):
Design Space
My Routine for Using My Toolkit:
4
Reflect and Evaluate
Self-Evaluation Scores (Rate 1-5)
Completeness (All items included)
/ 5
Usability (Easy to use quickly)
/ 5
Personal Fit (Matches my needs)
/ 5
Proud Of:
Improve Next Time:
Project Complete!
You've created a toolkit that is just right for you. Keep it handy and update it whenever you need!
Toolkit Components List Worksheet Project Phase: Parts Inventory
Toolkit Components List
Gather the tools you need for success
Student Name
Date
Strategy 01
Active
Strategy Name:
Materials Needed
Why I Chose These
Strategy 02
Active
Strategy Name:
Materials Needed
Why I Chose These
Strategy 03
Active
Strategy Name:
Materials Needed
Why I Chose These
Ready for assembly? Proceed to My Toolkit Plan
My Toolkit Plan Journal Project Phase: System Design
My Toolkit Plan
Design how you'll organize and use your tools
Student Name
Date
1
Container & Design
Which box, bag, or folder will hold your toolkit? Why?
Draw or describe your toolkit setup (where each item goes):
Schematic Sketch Area
2
Storage Location
Where will you keep your toolkit so it’s easy to reach?
3
My Routine for Using My Toolkit
Think about class breaks, times you feel stressed, or transitions.
Situation 1
Situation 2
Situation 3
Notes or Reminders:
Toolkit Quality Scale Rubric Project Phase: Quality Assurance
Toolkit Quality Scale
Evaluate your build and look for improvements
Student Name
Date
"Use this rubric to evaluate your Self-Regulation Toolkit. For each criterion, choose a score from 1–3 and read the descriptors to see how you can improve."
Criterion 1 – Needs Work 2 – Proficient 3 – Exemplary Completeness
| Several chosen strategies or tools are missing; some sections are blank. | All three strategies are included with basic materials listed; most sections filled out. | Every chosen strategy is fully represented with detailed materials and clear explanations. |
|
Usability
| Toolkit is hard to navigate; items are not organized or labeled; steps unclear. | Toolkit is mostly organized; items are somewhat easy to find and use. | Toolkit is well-organized, clearly labeled, and ready for immediate use. |
|
Personal Fit
| Items and strategies do not match your needs or preferences; feels generic. | Most items suit your needs; some choices could be more tailored to you. | Items and strategies are thoughtfully chosen to match your personal interests and needs. |
Overall Score:
/ 9 Total Points
Final Reflection
One thing I'm proud of:
One thing I'd like to improve next time:
Quality Certified
VERIFIED
