An 8-week Tier 3 individual intervention designed for a 7th-grade student to process grief, identify emotions, and build a toolkit of healthy coping strategies. The sequence uses a 'compass' metaphor to help the student navigate the complex landscape of loss and healing.
Briefly describe each stage. Encourage questions and discussion about what each might feel like.
The Feeling Wheel: Get Specific!
Sometimes we say we feel 'sad' or 'mad', but there are so many other words!
This wheel helps us find the right word for our feelings. When we name it, we can tame it.
Let's try it together!
EMOTIONS
Teacher Note:
Introduce the feeling wheel as a tool. Explain how it helps to identify more specific emotions, moving from general to more precise feelings.
My Coping Toolbox: What Helps?
When big feelings come, what can you do to take care of yourself?
"Coping means finding ways to deal with hard things so they don't feel quite so heavy."
Listen to music
Draw or create art
Spend time in nature
Take deep breaths
Write in a journal
Talk to an adult
Teacher Note:
Brainstorm healthy coping mechanisms together. Write down her ideas and offer suggestions. Emphasize self-care.
Speaking Your Heart
It's brave to share how you feel. Here's how to start:
Find Trust
Who do you feel safe talking to?
Use "I"
"I feel [emotion] when [situation] because..."
It's Okay
You don't need all the answers yet.
Teacher Note:
Discuss the importance of verbalizing feelings. Practice using "I feel... because..." statements. Role-play if appropriate and comfortable.
Grief Triggers
Sometimes, certain things can make big feelings suddenly reappear.
These are called "triggers," and it's normal for them to happen.
A song
A smell
A date
A place
Teacher Note:
Explain that certain things can unexpectedly bring back strong emotions. Help her identify potential triggers and validate their impact.
Be Kind to Yourself
Grieving is hard work. Treat yourself with kindness.
Talk to yourself like you would a best friend.
Give yourself permission to feel whatever comes up.
Practice self-care: sleep, eat well, do things you enjoy.
Don't compare your grief journey to anyone else's.
Teacher Note:
Introduce self-compassion. Talk about treating herself with the same kindness she would offer a friend. Discuss positive self-talk and simple self-care acts.
Building Your Support System
You don't have to go through this alone.
Who are the people in your life who care about you and can offer support?
Let's make a list!
Family members
Friends
Teachers
Counselors
Teacher Note:
Help her identify people in her life who can offer support. Create a list or 'support map' together.
Honoring Memories
Even though something is gone, the love and memories stay with you.
Create a memory box or scrapbook
Write a letter to what you lost
Plant a tree or flower
How would you like to honor your memories?
Teacher Note:
Discuss healthy ways to keep memories alive and honor what was lost. Focus on rituals or creative ways that resonate with her.
Your Grief Toolkit
You are stronger than you know.
What grief is
Naming big feelings
Healthy coping
Building support
You have a powerful toolkit for life!
Teacher Note:
Conclude by summarizing the tools she has gained and celebrating her growth. Reiterate that she has a toolkit for future challenges.
