Stop And Think Sheet
STOP & THINK POWER PLAN
My 3-Step Strategy to Stay in Control When Anger Sparks
Name:
Date:
The Golden Rule of Anger
Feeling angry is normal. What you CHOOSE to do with your anger is your superpower!
Pause • Reset
STOP
STEP 1: Freeze & Press Pause
Body Brake
When you feel your face get hot, fists ball up, or voice getting loud—FREEZE YOUR BODY! Do not speak, do not yell, and do not touch anything. Put your hands in your pockets or on your lap.
Feet on floor Open your hands Zip your lips
RESET
STEP 2: Take 3 Deep Breaths
Cool Down Circuit
Slow down your racing brain. Breathe in cold air through your nose for 4 counts, hold for 2, then blow the hot anger out of your mouth like blowing out a candle.
1
Breathe In Calm
In 1-2-3-4 • Out 1-2-3-4
2
Relax Shoulders
In 1-2-3-4 • Out 1-2-3-4
3
Clear Your Mind
In 1-2-3-4 • Out 1-2-3-4
THINK
STEP 3: Ask: "Will this HELP me or HURT me?"
Brain Test
Before doing or saying anything, look 10 minutes into the future. Compare your choices:
This Will HURT Me:
- Screaming, swearing, or hitting
- Ripping paper or throwing objects
- Result: Trouble, lost privileges, regret
This Will HELP Me:
- Saying: "I need a 2-minute break"
- Getting a drink or talking to teacher
- Result: Pride, problem solved, no trouble
Cut out & tape to your desk or binder MY DESK BADGE
1
STOP!
Hands still, lips zipped
→
2
3 BREATHS
Slow, deep belly breaths
→
3
THINK!
Will this help or hurt me?
HELP OR HURT? DECISION LAB
Put the 3-step strategy to the test with real 3rd grade situations.
Practice & Plan
Part 1: My Early Warning Clues (Check the ones you feel first)
Hot face / ears Tight fists Racing heart Wanting to yell
Part 2: What Choice Will HELP You? (Think & Solve)
Situation 1: Four Square / Recess Game Triggers anger
You get called "out" in four square, but you believe the ball bounced in. You feel angry and want to kick the ball away or push the person.
Kicking the ball will HURT because:
My STOP & BREATHE move that HELPS:
Situation 2: Hard Math Worksheet Triggers frustration
You made mistakes on 3 problems and tore your paper with the eraser. You feel ready to snap your pencil and slam your desk.
Snapping my pencil will HURT because:
My STOP & BREATHE move that HELPS:
Situation 3: Line Bump in the Hallway Triggers sudden impulse
Someone bumps hard into your backpack in line and laughs with a friend. You want to turn around and shove them back.
Shoving them back will HURT because:
My STOP & BREATHE move that HELPS:
My Go-To Moves When I Need Help (Circle your favorite 2):
Ask for 2-min water break Squeeze hands & release Count backwards 10 to 1 Ask teacher for support
My 3rd Grade Cool-Head Promise
"Whenever I feel anger rising, I have the power to STOP my body, take 3 DEEP BREATHS, and ask myself: 'Will this help me or hurt me?' I choose moves that keep me proud and in control."
Student Signature:
Teacher / Coach Signature: