Intervention Facilitation Master Guide Pace Control Academy
Intervention Facilitation Master Guide
Grade 3-5 Autonomic Regulation
Curriculum Overview
This 8-session, Tier 3 intensive behavioral intervention is designed to decrease rapid, unregulated breathing (shallow hyperventilation, breath-holding) associated with somatic anxiety and classroom frustration. Students master autonomic regulation by combining the 1:2 inhalation/exhalation ratio of "Smell the Flower, Blow out the Candle" with physical **Shape-Tracing Cards**.
Target Behaviors Rapid Inhalation, Chest Tightness, Hyperventilating
Replacement Behaviors Visual Respiration Pacing (VRP) & Shape Tracing
Learning Target
Students will identify autonomic stress responses (fast chest-breathing), and independently utilize a desk-sized shape-tracing card to reset their respiration rate during classroom triggers.
Success Criteria
I can differentiate chest vs. diaphragmatic breathing.
I can track my somatic triggers (hot flashes, rapid breath).
I can use a square/triangle tracing card to pace exhalations.
Behavioral Coaching Framework (Model-Lead-Test)
M
Model (I Do)
The coach acts out a mock high-arousal classroom trigger (e.g., failing a quiz) and highlights their rapid chest-breathing: "My respiration is speeding up. My sympathetic nervous system is taking over. I need to calibrate my pace." Coach immediately models shape tracing.
L
Lead (We Do)
The coach guides the student to trace cards side-by-side, providing technical breathing feedback: "Deep nose inhalation. Expand your lower abdomen. Now purse your lips and extend the exhalation slowly."
T
Test (You Do)
The coach presents a high-stress academic scenario. The student must notice their rapid breathing independently, retrieve their favorite tracing card, and complete 3 pacing cycles to stabilize.
Pace Control Academy • Master Facilitation Guide Page 1 of 4
Phase 1: Autonomic Assessment & Mapping
Sessions 1 & 2 Instruction Plans
Session 1
Autonomic Baseline (Measuring Respiration)
Goal: Teach students to differentiate shallow chest breathing (high arousal) and deep diaphragmatic belly breathing (low arousal).
Explicit Coaching Steps
1. Model: "Watch my chest. If I take short, shallow gasps, my chest rises rapidly. This is Rapid Chest Breathing . It signals my brain that I'm in danger. But if I place one hand on my stomach, breathe in, and push my hand out... my chest stays still. This is Diaphragmatic Breathing . It is my body's baseline of calm."
2. Lead: Have the student sit up tall, placing one hand on their chest and the other on their belly. Guide them to simulate "Rapid Chest" breathing for 10 seconds to feel the upper body tightness. Then, guide them to breathe deep, keeping the chest hand stable and moving the belly hand out like an inflating balloon.
3. Test: Coach shouts commands: "Show me Chest Breathing!" and then "Calibrate to Belly Breathing!" The student must smoothly execute the transitions, maintaining diaphragmatic stability on command.
Handout Connection: Complete Session 1 student worksheet by analyzing the differences between high-arousal and low-arousal breathing rates.
Session 2
Stress Response Mapping (Identifying Warning Somatics)
Goal: Connect classroom triggers with involuntary somatic stress signs (chest tightness, hot face, holding breath).
Explicit Coaching Steps
1. Model: "When I get stuck on a difficult math problem, my breathing starts to run fast like a race car! My shoulders rise and my heart starts pounding. This is my Somatic Stress Warning . If I don't catch it early, I lose my focus."
2. Lead: Review the student's personal somatic warning signs. Discuss chest tightness, gasping, or holding breath. Guide the student to complete their Somatic Stress Map, coloring in the physical locations where they experience rapid stress responses.
3. Test: Present a mock scenario: "You are logged out of your Chromebook and lose your draft." The student must act out their physical somatic warning signs (rapid chest breathing) and verbalize: "My breathing is turning stormy. I need to calibrate."
Handout Connection: Color the Somatic Stress Map, drawing red energy rings around the throat, chest, and shoulders where rapid breathing signs start.
Pace Control Academy • Master Facilitation Guide Page 2 of 4
Phase 2: Respiration Pacing & Visual-Motor Tools
Sessions 3 & 4 Instruction Plans
Session 3
Respiration Pacing (1:2 Inhale-Exhale Ratio)
Goal: Teach the mechanics of extending the exhalation phase relative to inhalation ("Smell the Flower, Blow out the Candle") to decrease heart rate.
Explicit Coaching Steps
1. Model: "When my stress system is active, I use my 1:2 respiration ratio: Smell the Flower, Blow out the Candle . First, I inhale slowly through my nose to fill my abdomen: 1... 2... 3. (Model deep nasal sniff). Next, I purse my lips and blow out the candle very gently to extend my exhale: 1... 2... 3... 4... 5... 6. (Model slow mouth blow). Notice how my chest instantly relaxes!"
2. Lead: Walk through the direct instruction slides. Guide the student: "Take a slow sniff through your nose to smell the flower... 1, 2, 3. Now purse your lips and blow out the candle so gently that the flame dances but doesn't blow out... 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6." Practice 5 full breathing cycles together.
3. Test: Say: "Pace Calibration Alert!" The student must immediately execute 3 complete Flower & Candle breathing tracks, showing a clear, slow count, quiet nose inhale, and extended mouth exhale.
Visual Connection: Present the "Flower and Candle Slides" to establish a strong, scientific and age-appropriate visual metaphor for extended exhalations.
Session 4
Selecting My Pace Track (Shape-Tracing Calibration)
Goal: Test multiple finger-tracing shapes (Square, Triangle) to calibrate visual-motor tracking with deep respiration cycles.
Explicit Coaching Steps
1. Model: Show the Square card. "My visual track controls my hand, and my hand controls my breath. Watch: I place my finger on the bottom left. I trace UP and inhale... I trace ACROSS the top and hold... I trace DOWN and exhale slowly... I trace ACROSS the bottom and rest." (Model perfect finger coordination with a steady, rhythmic pace).
2. Lead: Guide the student to conduct the shape-pacing trial. Test **Square Breathing** (Inhale, Hold, Exhale, Rest), **Triangle Breathing** (Inhale, Hold, Exhale), and **Star Breathing** (multi-step pacing). Student rates each on their Shape Tracing Tracker Handout on a 1-to-3 scale of comfort and control.
3. Test: Point to their chosen champion shape. Ask: "When your academic work gets frustrating, which card is your biological reset?" Student demonstrates 2 complete tracing cycles of their winner card independently.
Handout Connection: Use the Shape Tracing Tracker Handout to record trials and select their winner card to be laminated for their desk.
Pace Control Academy • Master Facilitation Guide Page 3 of 4
Phase 3: Integration, Simulation & Autonomic Control
Sessions 5 to 8 Instruction Plans
S5
Case Study Analysis
Goal: Analyze triggers and suggest pacing strategies in others.
Coaching: Review real-life student "Case Files" (Slides). Read situations where a student experiences test-anxiety. Have the student spot the somatic clues, and verbally "coach" the character to execute a square or triangle-tracing pace track.
S6
The Field Calibration
Goal: Practice respiration pacing in real settings.
Coaching: Take a physical tour of the school. Go to their classroom desk, locker, cafeteria, and recess field. In each location, simulate a minor frustration (e.g., crowded hallway, drop-in line) and have the student execute their tracing card in situ. Earn passport stamps.
S7
The Showdown Simulator
Goal: Role-play high-stakes triggers with control.
Coaching: Draw scenario cards (e.g., losing a game, strict corrections). Act it out! Coach plays the trigger. Student must immediately notice their rapid respiration, pull out their card, and complete 3 slow pacing rounds. Score on rubric.
S8
The Pace Protocol
Goal: Personal desk poster and graduation.
Coaching: Personalize their "My Desk Pace Card" featuring their favorite tracing shape. Conduct the graduation ceremony, presenting the Autonomic Control Certificate. Tape their card to their classroom desk and folder.
Generalization & Maintenance Protocols
Desk Tape Tethers: Laminate the student's chosen shape card and securely tape it to the top-right corner of their classroom desk and reading binder.Discreet Prompts: Teach the teacher a subtle non-verbal cue (e.g., a simple circular motion on their chest) to alert the student to check their autonomic baseline and begin tracing.Classroom Integration: Provide immediate silent validation (e.g., thumbs-up, positive nod) whenever the student is observed independently tracing their shape card during classwork.
Pace Control Academy • Master Facilitation Guide Page 4 of 4
Session 1 Lesson Plan Pace Control Academy • Lesson 1 Plan
Session 1: Autonomic Baseline
Session 1 of 8
Learning Target
"I can distinguish between thoracic (chest) breathing and diaphragmatic (belly) breathing, and measure my baseline rate."
Key Vocabulary
Autonomic Nervous System, Thoracic Breathing, Diaphragmatic Baseline
Materials & Prep Checklist
✓ Intervention Facilitation Master Guide (Page 2) ✓ Stopwatch or Timer (for counting breaths)
Step-by-Step Pacing Guide (15 Mins)
0 - 3 Mins
Check-in & System Briefing
Welcome the student. Explain that our bodies have an "automatic dashboard" called the Autonomic Nervous System that changes our breathing when we get stressed.
3 - 6 Mins
Model (I Do)
Model chest breathing vs. diaphragmatic breathing. Place hands on chest and belly. Breathe fast and shallow: "See my top hand moving? This is thoracic chest breathing. Now watch my stomach hand... belly expands, chest stays still. This is diaphragmatic breathing."
6 - 11 Mins
Lead (We Do)
Have the student run in place for 30 seconds to induce rapid, thoracic breathing. Sit together, count their breaths for 1 minute (Baseline A). Then, guide them to lie back or sit tall, focusing on diaphragmatic inhalation to measure slow breathing (Baseline B).
11 - 14 Mins
Test (You Do)
Call out transitions: "Switch to Thoracic!" and "Calibrate to Diaphragmatic!" Verify the student can make the transition independently. Record their baseline rates in their workbook.
14 - 15 Mins
Reflection & Wrap-up
Praise their performance. Hand out progress log. Preview next week: "We will map how our triggers speed up our baseline respiration rate so we can hack the system."
Coach's Tip:
3rd-5th graders are highly motivated by biological science. Presenting breathing regulation as a "bio-hack" or "performance calibration" creates strong engagement and bypasses resistance.
Pace Control Academy • Session 1 Lesson Plan Page 1 of 1
Somatic Stress Map Handout Student ID:
Date:
Autonomic Mapping
Pace Control Academy
Somatic Stress Map
Before your autonomic system reaches high arousal (stress storm), your body sends physical warning indicators. Map out where you feel physiological stress.
Autonomic Feedback Zone
🎨 Highlight the zones where stress alters your respiration rate!
Somatic stress indicators
Check the physiological events you experience under high stress:
Thoracic rapid breathing 😤
Chest tightness/restriction 🫁
Throat constriction/dryness 😬
Sudden breath-holding 😶🌫️
Elevated heart rate ❤️
💡 Early detection of somatic warning signals allows you to deploy respiration pacing before hyperventilation occurs.
Somatic Calibration Target (Describe your primary breathing trigger and how it feels):
Describe your personal stress triggers and respiratory physical changes here...
Pace Control Academy • Session 2 Autonomic Map Autonomic Regulation Student Worksheets
Session 2 Lesson Plan Pace Control Academy • Lesson 2 Plan
Session 2: Stress Response Mapping
Session 2 of 8
Learning Target
"I can map my physical somatic warning signs (rapid chest-breathing, hot face) and connect them with high-stress classroom triggers."
Key Vocabulary
Somatic Warning Indicators, High-Arousal Triggers, Biological Reset
Materials & Prep Checklist
✓ Somatic Stress Map Handout ✓ Red & Blue Coloring Pencils/Crayons
Step-by-Step Pacing Guide (15 Mins)
0 - 3 Mins
Check-in & Recall
Review baseline breathing. Have the student demonstrate diaphragmatic belly breathing. Connect back to how the body rumbles under emotional stress.
3 - 6 Mins
Model (I Do)
Explain somatic warning mapping. "When I get frustrated because my computer logs off, my body doesn't just explode. First, my heart beats fast and my breathing turns into rapid upper-chest panting. This is my body's built-in alarm system!"
6 - 11 Mins
Lead (We Do)
Explore student triggers. Hand out the Somatic Stress Map Handout. Help the student identify where they feel high arousal (chest, throat, shoulders). Guide them to color these physical locations red.
11 - 14 Mins
Test (You Do)
Present a mock trigger: "You get told you cannot sit with your friends at lunch today." The student must act out their physical somatic warning signs (rapid chest breathing) and point to their map.
14 - 15 Mins
Reflection & Wrap-up
Praise their self-awareness: "Identifying these somatic signs is the secret to bio-hacking your stress!" Hand out log. Preview: "Next week we learn the scientific Flower and Candle method to slow the wind!"
Coach's Tip:
Reinforce that experiencing stress and rapid chest-breathing is a natural autonomic reflex. There is zero shame in it! The focus is catching it early so we can choose a controlled diaphragmatic reset.
Pace Control Academy • Session 2 Lesson Plan Page 1 of 1
Flower and Candle Slides Pace Control Academy Session 3: Respiration Pacing
⚡️ Biological System Regulation
The Science of Respiration Pacing
How to hack your autonomic nervous system and lower high heart rates using strategic exhalations.
Grade 3-5 Autonomic Regulation Deck
Slide 1 of 6
State Analysis Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic Systems
Sympathetic Spike 🌪️
Fight-or-Flight. Breathing becomes rapid and thoracic (chest-focused). Heart rate and somatic stress levels spike.
Parasympathetic Reset 🍃
Rest-and-Recover. Breathing is deep and diaphragmatic. Heart rate drops and blood pressure stabilizes.
Deploy respiration pacing to manually trigger your "Reset" system. Slide 2 of 6
Step 1 Detecting the Autonomic Spike
Catch the Somatic Spikes!
Your body triggers autonomic alarm signals before you lose cognitive focus.
Are your shoulders contracting up toward your ears?
Is your respiration thoracic (shallow, rapid gasping)?
Do you experience chest restriction or a dry throat?
💡 When you detect these warnings, FREEZE and calibrate your breathing.
Early detection is the key to somatic self-control. Slide 3 of 6
Step 2 Strategic Nasal Intake (Smell the Flower)
Inhale Slowly Through Your Nose!
Nasal inhalation filters and warms air, which stimulates the lower lobes of your lungs and expands your diaphragm.
Imagine **Smelling the Flower** slowly, filling your abdomen. Count to 3:
1
2
3
Ensure your lower chest and abdomen expand, not your shoulders. Slide 4 of 6
Step 3 Extended Mouth Exhalation (Blow out the Candle)
Exhale Gently Through Pursed Lips!
Extended exhalation triggers the vagus nerve, signaling your heart to slow down. The exhalation must be longer than the inhalation.
Imagine **Blowing out the Candle** slowly, making the flame dance. Count to 6:
1
2
3
4
5
6
Keep exhalations steady, quiet, and fully controlled. Slide 5 of 6
Calibration Lab Rhythmic Testing
Diagnostic Respiration Practice
Let's perform 3 diagnostic exhalation calibrations as a team. Prepare to pace your airflow.
Round 1
Strategic Nose Inhale... (3s)
Session 3 Lesson Plan Pace Control Academy • Lesson 3 Plan
Session 3: Respiration Pacing
Session 3 of 8
Learning Target
"I can perform strategic nasal inhalation and extended pursed-lip exhalations (Flower & Candle) to manually decrease my heart rate."
Key Vocabulary
1:2 Respiration Ratio, Nasal Intake, Extended Exhalation, Vagus Nerve
Materials & Prep Checklist
✓ Flower and Candle Slides (Digital/Print) ✓ Timer or clock (to measure exhalation counts)
Step-by-Step Pacing Guide (15 Mins)
0 - 3 Mins
Check-in & Somatic Review
Review previous somatic warning signs (chest tightness). Ask the student how fast thoracic breathing triggers an autonomic spike. Set the goal: learn how to manual-override this system.
3 - 6 Mins
Model (I Do)
Present Flower & Candle Slides. Model the technique: "When I detect high arousal, I inhale slowly through my nose to 'smell the flower' for 3 counts. Then, I purse my lips and blow out the candle very slowly for 6 counts." Explain the science: longer exhalations slow the heart.
6 - 11 Mins
Lead (We Do)
Practice side-by-side. Guide the student: "Inhale through your nose... 1, 2, 3. Stomach expands. Now, purse lips, exhale slowly... 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6." Conduct 5 cycles. Coach on maintaining a relaxed upper-body posture.
11 - 14 Mins
Test (You Do)
Prompt: "Autonomic High-Arousal Spike Detected!" The student must immediately execute 3 complete Flower & Candle breaths independently, maintaining proper inhale-to-exhale ratios and abdomen focus.
14 - 15 Mins
Reflection & Wrap-up
Congratulate them on activating parasympathetic regulation. Hand out star. Preview next week: "We will experiment with different visual shape tracks to see which shape fits your tracing baseline."
Coach's Tip:
Some students may try to inhale too rapidly or exhale too aggressively, which can cause hyperventilation. Emphasize that the exhalation should be quiet, gentle, and extended—like blowing a tiny bubble without popping it.
Pace Control Academy • Session 3 Respiration Pacing Plan Page 1 of 1
Shape Tracing Tracker Handout Student ID:
Date:
Respiration Calibration
Pace Control Academy
Respiration Pace Tracker
Experiment with three different visual-motor shape cards to calibrate your finger movements with your breathing. Test each track for 3 full cycles and record your performance ratings.
🟦
Track A: The Respiration Square
4 slow equal steps: Inhale (4s), Hold (4s), Exhale (4s), Rest (4s).
Rate:
👎 😐 👍
🔺
Track B: The Respiration Triangle
3 simple steps: Inhale (4s), Hold (4s), Exhale (4s).
Rate:
👎 😐 👍
🟰
Track C: The Respiration Rectangle
Modified pacing: Inhale (4s), Hold (2s), Exhale (4s), Rest (2s).
Rate:
👎 😐 👍
My Champion Respiration Track
Circle your preferred biological regulation shape card below:
🟦 Respiration Square
🔺 Respiration Triangle
🟰 Respiration Rectangle
Pace Protocol
Autonomic Regulation Commitment
"When my somatic stress warnings detect a sympathetic nervous system spike (rapid thoracic breathing or chest tightness), I promise to use my favorite Respiration Shape Card to slow my breathing rate. I commit to maintaining autonomic control to keep my brain clear and focused."
Student Signature
Academy Coach Signature
Pace Control Academy • Session 4 Shape Tracker Autonomic Regulation Student Worksheets
Session 4 Lesson Plan Pace Control Academy • Lesson 4 Plan
Session 4: Selecting My Pace Track
Session 4 of 8
Learning Target
"I can experiment with three shape-breathing tracks, determine my optimal tracing shape, and sign my Pace Protocol."
Key Vocabulary
Visual-Motor Calibration, Respiration Square, Respiration Rectangle, Pledge
Materials & Prep Checklist
✓ Shape Tracing Tracker Handout ✓ 3 Laminated Shape Cards (Square, Triangle, Rectangle)
Step-by-Step Pacing Guide (15 Mins)
0 - 3 Mins
Check-in & Goal Setting
Welcome student. Recall previous Flower and Candle pacing. Explain that today we are "scientists" testing 3 shape cards to find the most comfortable respiration track for their hands and lungs.
3 - 6 Mins
Model (I Do)
Show the three cards: Square, Triangle, and Rectangle. Model slow, rhythmic finger tracing on the square while breathing in sync. "Observe: my hand speed is completely locked with my breath pace. If I trace too fast, my breathing gets shallow."
6 - 11 Mins
Lead (We Do)
Conduct trials. Have the student test Track A (Square), Track B (Triangle), and Track C (Rectangle) for 3 cycles each. Cooperatively rate their effectiveness on the Shape Tracing Tracker Handout.
11 - 14 Mins
Test (You Do)
Student selects their final champion shape. Direct student to sign the "Autonomic Regulation Pledge" at the bottom of the worksheet. Coach counter-signs to solidify commitment.
14 - 15 Mins
Reflection & Wrap-up
Celebrate the commitment! Give progress star. Preview next week: "We will analyze real student case files to see if you can coach other peers to pace their breathing."
Coach's Tip:
Ensure the student keeps their finger movements slow and steady. 3rd-5th graders occasionally try to "race" their finger around the shapes. Remind them that finger speed dictates lung speed.
Pace Control Academy • Session 4 Lesson Plan Page 1 of 1
Tension Storybook Slides Pace Control Academy Session 5: Case Study Analysis
🔬 Autonomic Case Analysis
Autonomic Case Files!
Analyze real-life school day scenarios, diagnose somatic warning clues in other peers, and recommend respiration pace resets.
Grade 3-5 Interactive Case Analysis Slides
Slide 1 of 6
Case Study 1: Taylor The Timed Math Assessment
📝⚡️
Assessment Block Stuck on Problem 7
Physiological Event Details:
Taylor has been working on a multi-step division problem for 10 minutes. The timer is counting down, and Taylor gets stuck on the final calculation.
Somatic Warnings Detected:
Taylor's thoracic breathing becomes rapid and shallow .
Shoulders contract high up to ears.
Taylor scribbles heavily and wants to crumple the paper !
How would you diagnose Taylor's autonomic arousal level? Slide 2 of 6
Case 1 Solution Recalibration Protocol
Calibrate Taylor's Respiration
Taylor needs to shift from thoracic survival breathing to parasympathetic control. Let's recommend a **Respiration Square** reset:
"Initiate Respiration Square!"
Help Taylor trace the square. Slowly coordinate your breath:
UP 🔺 Inhale (4s)
ACROSS ➡️ HOLD (4s)
DOWN 🔻 Exhale (4s)
ACROSS ⬅️ REST (4s)
📝🧘 "Calibrated..."
Taylor's thoracic breathing stabilizes. Taylor thinks clearly: "I can solve this problem systematically now."
Biological reset active. Taylor can complete the timed exam. Slide 3 of 6
Case Study 2: Morgan Oral Class Presentation
🎤🥵
Somatic Overload Standing in Front of Peers
Physiological Event Details:
Morgan is standing at the front of the classroom to present a science project. All students are staring. Morgan suddenly blanks out.
Somatic Warnings Detected:
Morgan's nose breathing gets loud and fast .
Morgan is swallowing repeatedly due to dry throat.
Morgan is holding their breath between sentences.
Where do you detect Morgan's autonomic emergency signals? Slide 4 of 6
Helping Morgan The Resettlement Protocol
Activate Morgan's Vagus Nerve
Morgan must increase parasympathetic control. Let's guide Morgan to deploy a **Respiration Triangle**:
Session 5 Lesson Plan Pace Control Academy • Lesson 5 Plan
Session 5: Case Study Analysis
Session 5 of 8
Learning Target
"I can analyze school case files to detect stress-induced thoracic breathing in peers, and instruct them to deploy a respiration reset shape."
Key Vocabulary
Observer, Diagnostic Coach, Recalibration, Case Analysis, Taylor, Morgan
Materials & Prep Checklist
✓ Case Study Slides (Digital/Print) ✓ Student's selected Respiration Shape Card
Step-by-Step Pacing Guide (15 Mins)
0 - 3 Mins
Check-in & Role Identification
Welcome student. Check-in. Explain: "Today you are an expert autonomic consultant. You are going to review case files of other students experiencing academic stress, diagnose their somatic warnings, and advise them."
3 - 6 Mins
Model (I Do)
Present Slide 2 (Taylor division blockage). Model diagnostic coaching: "Observe Taylor's shoulders rising and chest pumping. That's thoracic survival breathing. I will instruct Taylor: Initiate Respiration Square pacing!"
6 - 11 Mins
Lead (We Do)
Analyze Slide 3 & 4 together. Guide student to identify Morgan's science presentation triggers and somatic clues (loud throat gasping, breath-holding). Practice tracing the respiration triangle card in the air together to paceexhalation.
11 - 14 Mins
Test (You Do)
Show Slide 5. Student must independently diagnose Morgan's state, direct: "Initiate Respiration Triangle pacing!" and demonstrate executing 2 complete cycles of the breathing triangle alongside Morgan.
14 - 15 Mins
Reflection & Wrap-up
Review Slide 6. Discuss how peer coaching builds our own self-regulation habits. Give star. Preview: "Next week we take your shape card to your actual classroom, cafeteria, and recess fields!"
Coach's Tip:
This session transitions the student from a client to a "diagnostician." Instructing and coaching others on respiration pacing builds deep neurocognitive ownership, leading to much higher generalization.
Pace Control Academy • Session 5 Lesson Plan Page 1 of 1
School Tour Passport Handout Student ID:
Date:
Field Calibration
Pace Control Academy
Field Calibration Passport
Let's test and calibrate your respiration pacing cards inside actual school settings. Execute a discreet pace calibration at each stop to earn your Coach Verification Stamps.
Stop 1
🪑
My Desk
Trigger: High-stakes cognitive overload during timed assessments.
Action: Slow trace your shape card taped to your desk.
Coach Stamp:
Stop 2
🧩
Group Carpet
Trigger: Waiting for turns during group discussion, high visual distractions.
Action: Execute quiet extended 1:2 exhalations.
Coach Stamp:
Stop 3
🍎
The Cafeteria
Trigger: High decibel sensory overload, long lunch lines, peer rejection.
Action: Slow trace your shape card taped inside your reading folder.
Coach Stamp:
Stop 4
🛝
The Recess Field
Trigger: Highly competitive games, athletic stress, losing.
Action: Perform 3 slow diaphragmatic reset breaths.
Coach Stamp:
Field Calibration Certified!
When all 4 passport locations have coach verification stamps, the student is officially qualified for the Simulator Showdown Challenge !
Pace Control Academy • Session 6 Generalization Log Autonomic Regulation Student Worksheets
Session 6 Lesson Plan Pace Control Academy • Lesson 6 Plan
Session 6: School Day Tour
Session 6 of 8
Learning Target
"I can execute discreet respiration pacing at my desk, independent study area, cafeteria line, and recess fields to keep my autonomic system calibrated."
Key Vocabulary
Somatic Generalization, Field Calibration, discreet pacing tethers
Materials & Prep Checklist
✓ School Tour Passport Handout ✓ Student's chosen Respiration Card, Coach stamp/pen
Step-by-Step Pacing Guide (15 Mins)
0 - 2 Mins
Check-in & Tour Briefing
Welcome student. Check-in. Say: "Today, we are moving outside this office. We will carry your respiration pacing card to real environments to calibrate your lungs under live school conditions." Hand out passport.
2 - 6 Mins
Stops 1 & 2: Desk and Carpet
Walk to their classroom. Sit at their Desk. Simulate a timed test trigger. Student discreetly traces their shape card on their desk. Verify slow abdominal expansion. Stamp! Move to carpet area. Simulate high noise. Student paces exhales. Stamp!
6 - 11 Mins
Stops 3 & 4: Cafeteria and Recess
Walk to Cafeteria. Simulate long chaotic lines. Student slow-traces card inside reading folder corner. Stamp! Move to Playground. Simulate waiting for equipment or losing game. Student does 3 baseline reset breaths. Stamp!
11 - 14 Mins
Verification Test
Return to office. Ask: "If you detect thoracic breathing in the crowded hallway tomorrow, what is your protocol?" Student must describe performing a slow, discreet exhalation pacing cycle in situ.
14 - 15 Mins
Log Book Complete
Celebrate the completed passport. Discuss their success doing calibrations discreetly. Preview: "Next week we conduct the official Simulator Showdown Challenge!"
Coach's Tip:
This in-situ practice is the most critical stage of autonomic behavior therapy. 3rd-5th graders value privacy, so emphasize how "discreet" shape-tracing is—no peer has to know they are calming their system!
Pace Control Academy • Session 6 Lesson Plan Page 1 of 1
Role Play Scenario Cards Pace Control Academy • Session 7
Respiration Simulation Cards
✂️ Cut Along Dashed Lines
Use these scenario cards to simulate high-stress triggers. The student must detect their autonomic "somatic warning signs" and immediately execute their shape-tracing cards to lower arousal levels.
Card 1
📊
The Hard Test Problem
You are completing a timed math test and get completely stuck on a hard problem. You feel the clock ticking down.
Somatic Warning: Rapid chest breathing 😤
Card 2
🎤
Oral Presentation
The teacher calls your name to stand in front of the class and read your science report. Every peer is staring at you.
Somatic Warning: Holding breath/dry throat 😶🌫️
Card 3
⚽
Recess Defeat
You lose a highly competitive recess soccer game at the last second. A peer walks past and laughs.
Somatic Warning: Heart rate spikes fast ❤️
Card 4
🖥️
Chromebook Glitch
Your Chromebook screen freezes in the middle of typing a long paragraph, losing your entire draft.
Somatic Warning: Quick shallow gasping
Card 5
👥
Group Exclusion
You sit at your usual lunch table, but a peer tells you, "This table is full. You have to find somewhere else to sit."
Somatic Warning: Chest restriction / heat 🥵
Card 6
🚶
Line Cutter
You are waiting patiently in the cafeteria line. Suddenly, someone slides directly in front of you.
Somatic Warning: Neck/shoulder contraction 🤷
Card 7
🎨
The Ruined Project
You spent three art classes building a clay sculpture. A peer slips and knocks it off your desk, shattering it.
Somatic Warning: Breath-holding / clenching
Card 8
🤫
The Rumor Clue
You walk into the classroom and notice two classmates whispering and pointing at you, then giggling.
Somatic Warning: Shallow, noisy respiration
Pace Control Academy • Session 7 Simulator Cards Page 1 of 2
Pace Control Academy
Simulator Showdown Scorecard
Coach Assessment Tool
Use this scorecard during Session 7 simulation role-plays. Read a stress card from Page 1 and act out the trigger. Assess and grade the student's autonomic regulation and pacing responses.
Session 7 Lesson Plan Pace Control Academy • Lesson 7 Plan
Session 7: The Simulator Showdown
Session 7 of 8
Learning Target
"I can stay regulated and pace my exhalations even when mock stress simulators trigger my somatic warning signs."
Key Vocabulary
Simulator, Role-Play, Respiration Pacing, Scorecard, Autonomic Mastery
Materials & Prep Checklist
✓ Printable Respiration Cards (Page 1 Cut Out) ✓ Simulator Showdown Scorecard (Page 2)
Step-by-Step Pacing Guide (15 Mins)
0 - 3 Mins
Check-in & Rules setup
Welcome student. Set rules: "Today we run real stress simulations! I will draw cards representing triggers, and you must deploy your respiration pacing card to reset your system immediately!"
3 - 5 Mins
Model (I Do)
Coach models playing. "Let's draw Card 1: Timed Test Blockage. Watch me struggle. (Breathe shallowly, shrug shoulders). I detect the somatic alarm. I pull my card, trace slowly: In, Hold, Exhale, Rest."
5 - 11 Mins
Lead (We Do)
Draw cards together. Act out simulations (e.g., Card 2: class presentation, Card 5: lunch table exclusion). Practice coordinating breathing card tracing with a steady hand speed together. Adjust exhalation length.
11 - 14 Mins
Simulation Test
Conduct official showdown trials. Score their performance on the Page 2 Scorecard for: 1. somatic awareness, 2. shape card retrieval, 3. rhythmic tracing speed, 4. diaphragmatic expansion.
14 - 15 Mins
Reflection & Wrap-up
Review the scorecard with student. Praise high scores! Write a positive showdown praise note on Page 2. Preview: "Next week is graduation! We will laminate and tape your desk pace card!"
Coach's Tip:
Make scenarios highly realistic but ensure the environment remains emotionally safe. If the student gets genuinely frustrated, drop the scenario immediately and switch back to slow diaphragmatic baseline breathing.
Pace Control Academy • Session 7 Simulator Plan Page 1 of 1
Calm Champion Kit Handout Student ID:
Desk Anchor Card
My Respiration Plan
Laminate and tape this pacing log directly to your desk or binder folder corner!
My Active Pace Card
Place your index finger at the START star. Move slowly with the arrows.
START ⭐
HOLD BREATH (4s) ➡️
🔺 BREATHE IN (4s)
🔻 BREATHE OUT (4s)
⬅️ REST & RESET (4s)
⚡️ Focus hand speed to limit lung speed!
Calibration Protocols
1
🚨 Somatic Alarm Detection
When shoulders contract up, heart rate spikes, or thoracic chest rises rapidly, freeze and suspend further activity.
2
👆 Trace Respiration Shape
Align index finger to start star. Execute slow, rhythmic visual-motor tracing around the card borders.
3
🌱 extended Exhalation Pacing
Coordinate respiration rates: 3-second quiet nose inhale, 6-second pursed-lip mouth exhale. Lower heart rate instantly.
🤝
Autonomic Promise: Respiration pacing is my scientific self-control tool. I override sympathetic stress and keep my focus safe and clear!
🛡️ Autonomic Regulation • Biological Focus 🛡️
Pace Control Academy • Personal Desk Anchor Card Page 1 of 2
Pace Control Academy Graduation
Certificate of Autonomic Mastery
This is proudly presented to:
Autonomic Calibration Graduate
Who has completed the intensive 8-session autonomic pacing curriculum, mastered the "Extended Respiration Pacing" (Smell the Flower, Blow out the Candle) and "Visual-Motor Shape Card" protocols, analyzed somatic warning baselines, and committed to managing biological stress calmly and focused.
Intervention Coach
Classroom Teacher
Session 8 Lesson Plan Pace Control Academy • Lesson 8 Plan
Session 8: The Pace Protocol
Session 8 of 8
Learning Target
"I can personalize my Desk Respiration Pacing card and complete my graduation from the Pace Control Academy."
Key Vocabulary
Graduate, Autonomic Mastery, Desk Pacing Card, Calibration Protocol
Materials & Prep Checklist
✓ Calm Champion Kit (Desk Poster + Certificate) ✓ Laminator, tape for desk, gold foil labels/stickers
Step-by-Step Pacing Guide (15 Mins)
0 - 2 Mins
Check-in & Retrospective
Welcome student. Celebrate arriving at the graduation phase! Ask: "What was your most effective pace calibration victory during class this past week?"
2 - 5 Mins
Model (I Do)
Show the personal "My Respiration Plan" desk card. Model taping it: "We will tape this visual shape card to your desk. When you feel a stress spike, you can trace it with your finger—completely quietly."
5 - 10 Mins
Lead (We Do)
Complete the card with their favorite tracing shape from Session 4. Guide the student to practice one final perfect tracing cycle on the desk card, maintaining deep, quiet diaphragmatic expansion.
10 - 14 Mins
Official Graduation Ceremony
Present the elegant "Certificate of Autonomic Mastery" (Page 2). Counter-sign together. Walk to the classroom, introduce the plan to their teacher, and tape the laminated shape card securely to their desk.
14 - 15 Mins
Reflective Graduation Wrap
Praise their resilience and autonomic focus. Reinforce that self-regulation is an active, lifelong skill they now hold key control of. Transition back to class.
Coach's Tip:
Laminating and taping the shape card is highly symbolic for 3rd-5th graders. It normalizes behavioral coaching by integrating a "pro-pacing tether" into their actual study environment with full teacher backing.
Pace Control Academy • Session 8 Lesson Plan Page 1 of 1
