Body Regulation Tools

A 5-lesson sequence for 2nd-grade students focusing on identifying and utilizing sensory tools for physiological recovery after dysregulation. Students explore alerting versus calming inputs, proprioceptive heavy work, and tactile/visual soothers to build a personalized regulation menu.

Engine Speeds and Tools

Students participate in a sensory sort, differentiating between inputs that increase alertness and inputs that calm the body. They learn to identify when their body engine is running 'too fast' and introduces the concept of using tools to slow it down.

Heavy Work Power

This lesson focuses on 'heavy work' activities like wall pushes, chair dips, and carrying weighted objects. Students test how resistance helps ground their bodies and practice specific exercises that can be used independently during recovery.

Soft and Steady Senses

Students rotate through stations featuring calming jars, soft fabrics, and dim lighting to experience low-arousal sensory inputs. They record which textures and sights lower their heart rate or help them take a deep breath.

Regulation Menu Build

Using data from previous explorations, students create a visual menu of 3-5 tools that specifically help them recover. They assemble a personal reference card to keep at their desk or in the recovery zone.

Scenario Selection Game

Students draw scenario cards describing a stressful situation and must quickly select an appropriate tool from their menu to 'fix' the glitch. This builds muscle memory for choosing strategies under pressure.