Pause Power Teacher Manual PAUSE POWER
Teacher Intervention Manual
Program Overview
Pause Power is an 8-lesson intervention grounded in the Prevent, Teach, Reinforce (PTR) model. It shifts focus from "escape" to "self-regulation."
Aligned to
This manual is aligned to Character Strong Purposeful People traits, emphasizing Responsibility (owning our reactions), Perseverance (returning to work), and Courage (asking for tools).
PREVENT
Identify triggers and early warning signs (The Drift) to intervene before shutdown occurs.
TEACH
Systematically instruct the replacement behavior: requesting and executing a functional break.
REINFORCE
Use a visual feedback system and "Power Rewards" to solidify the new habit of regulation.
RESTORE
Focus on the transition back to learning (The Launch Pad) as the ultimate goal of every break.
© 2026 Pause Power Intervention Systems Purposeful People Edition | PAGE 1
LESSON 1
Detecting the Drift
Responsibility
Learning Target:
I can identify the physical signs in my body that show I am starting to "drift" or shut down.
Success Criteria
I can name 3 specific "Warning Lights" in my body.
I can accurately color my body map to show where I feel those signals.
Instructional Steps
The Analogy: Explain "The Drift" using the boat analogy.Physical Signals: Brainstorm feelings (heavy head, quiet voice). Label as "Warning Lights."Activity: Complete "Warning Lights" worksheet.
Purposeful People Link
Using Responsibility means being aware of our feelings before they turn into big actions. Today is about noticing yourself.
LESSON 2
The Pause Button
Responsibility
Learning Target:
I can explain the difference between a "Pause" and "Play" and why a Pause helps my brain.
Success Criteria
I can sort 4 activities into "Pause" or "Play" categories.
I can state the main goal of a Pause (Self-Control).
Instructional Steps
Concept: Video game pause analogy.Definitions: Contrast temporary/quiet breaks with leisure play.The "Pit Stop" Drawing: Discuss why cars stop to go faster later.
Purposeful People Link
Taking Responsibility means choosing the right tool for the job. A Pause is a tool for learning!
LESSON 3
The Signal
Courage
Learning Target:
I can use a respectful signal to ask for a Pause before I shut down.
Success Criteria
I can demonstrate my chosen secret signal to my teacher.
I can wait quietly for 30 seconds after signaling.
Instructional Steps
Choices: Select Card, Hand Signal, or Phrase.Practice: Rehearse the signal during independent work time.
Purposeful People Link
It takes Courage to ask for what you need when you feel stuck, instead of just giving up.
LESSON 4
The Reset Room
Responsibility
Learning Target:
I can use a self-regulation tool and a timer to calm my body and brain.
Success Criteria
I can set a visual timer correctly for a 2-minute break.
I can pick one item from the Reset Menu and complete it.
Instructional Steps
Choices: Select favorite Reset Menu items.Timer: Hands-on practice with the classroom timer.
Purposeful People Link
Being Responsible means managing our own time and tools to help ourselves be successful.
LESSON 5
The Launch Pad
Perseverance
Learning Target:
I can transition back to my desk and start my work after a Pause.
Success Criteria
I can walk back to my desk with a quiet body when the timer beeps.
I can identify and complete my "First Step" immediately.
Instructional Steps
3-2-1 Routine: Clean up -> Walk back -> Pick one thing.First Step: Brainstorm very small "win" steps (name, pencil).
Purposeful People Link
Perseverance is starting again even when things were hard. Returning to your work shows huge heart!
LESSON 6
The Power Chart
Perseverance
Learning Target:
I can track my successes and understand how my choices lead to rewards.
Success Criteria
I can explain the 4 steps of a "Success Loop."
I can identify the Power Reward I am working toward.
Instructional Steps
The Chart: Show the visual tracker.Self-Charting: Practice marking success.
Purposeful People Link
We use Perseverance to stick with our new routine until it becomes a habit. Tracking success helps us see our growth!
LESSON 7
Practice Run
Cooperation
Learning Target:
I can perform the entire Pause Power routine during a practice task.
Success Criteria
I can complete all 4 steps of the routine without any verbal reminders.
Instructional Steps
Role Play: Rehearse the full cycle under "mock pressure."
Purposeful People Link
Cooperation means working together with your teacher to make the classroom a great place for everyone to learn.
LESSON 8
Pause Power Pro
Responsibility
Learning Target:
I can commit to using my Pause Power independently to stay successful in class.
Success Criteria
I can explain my full plan to my teacher or a partner.
I can sign my pledge and commit to my goals.
Instructional Steps
Commitment: Discuss the long-term benefit of using our tools.
Purposeful People Link
Being a Responsible student means knowing when to Pause so you can always do your best work.
Pause Power Student Workbook PAUSE POWER
My Strategy Workbook
Hero's Name:
Training Start Date:
Responsibility
Courage
Perseverance
Aligned to Character Strong Purposeful People
Lesson 1
CATCH THE DRIFT
Learning Target:
"I can identify signals in my body."
"The Drift" is that feeling when your brain starts to pull away. Your body gives you Warning Lights to let you know it's time for a Pause.
My Warning Lights
I know I'm a Pro when:
I can name 3 clues my body gives me.
I color my body map to show my clues.
Lesson 2
THE PAUSE BUTTON
Learning Target:
"I can explain why a Pause helps me."
A Pause Is...
• A tool for my brain
• A quiet time to reset
• A path back to learning
I know I'm a Pro when:
I can sort "Pause" activities from "Play."
I know my Pause is for self-control.
The Pit Stop Challenge
Draw a race car getting its "brain" ready to go back out on the track.
Lesson 3
THE SIGNAL
Learning Target:
"I can use a respectful signal."
"It takes Courage to ask for what I need."
Success Criteria:
Demo signal
Wait 30 sec
My Choice
Which signal will you use? Draw or write it below.
Lesson 4
THE RESET ROOM
Learning Target:
"I can use my tools to stay calm."
My Reset Menu Favorites
Deep Breathing
Stress Ball
I know I'm a Pro when:
I can set my visual timer for exactly the right time.
I follow my rules even when no one is watching.
Lesson 5
THE LAUNCH PAD
Learning Target:
"I can return to my desk and start."
"Returning to work shows Perseverance !"
Success Criteria:
Quiet walk back
Do Step One
Draw yourself doing "Step One" at your desk!
PAUSE POWER PRO
"I have the Responsibility to stay ready."
I know my body's clues.
I will ask with Courage .
Pause Power Skillstreaming Manual Skillstreaming Manual
Pause Power: 8-Lesson Group Skill Sequence
The 8-Step Group Lesson
Define the Skill
Set up the Role-Play
Model the Skill
Conduct the Role-Play
Establish Requirement
Provide Performance Feedback
Select Role-Player
Assign Homework
Character Strong Integration
Lessons are mapped to Purposeful People Tier 1 traits. Reinforcement should focus not just on the action but on the value (e.g., "That shows Responsibility!").
The Power of "Pause Praise"
Reinforcement must be Immediate, Specific, and Positive . Use the provided prompts at the end of every Role-Play and in the natural environment.
Skillstreaming x Purposeful People x Pause Power PAGE 1
Lesson 1
Detecting the Drift
Trait
Responsibility
Learning Target
"I can identify the physical signs in my body that show I am starting to drift."
Success Criteria
I can name 3 "Warning Lights" and map them on my body.
1
Define: Identify "Warning Lights" (heavy head, racing heart). Discuss why it is our Responsibility to notice them.
2
Model: Teacher acts out a task and narrates the onset of "The Drift." "I'm feeling my hands get tight... that's a clue!"
3
Requirement: Discuss how catching clues early prevents us from making "Drift Decisions" (shutting down).
4
Select: Choose the student to identify one physical clue they feel most often.
5
Setup: Student sits at desk with a slightly challenging worksheet.
6
Conduct: Student practices noticing the clue and tapping the desk twice to signal awareness.
7
Reinforcement Prompt (Feedback)
"I noticed you noticed your tight hands immediately. That's being Responsible for your body's clues! Total Pause Power!"
8
Homework: Student colors the body map in their workbook for 1 minute during a real task tomorrow.
Teacher Skillstreaming Cue Cards TEACHER CUE CARDS
Cut these out, punch a hole, and add to your lanyard for quick reference during lessons.
THE SKILLSTREAMING
SEQUENCE
1
Define the Skill
2
Model the Steps
3
Role-Play Success
4
Give Pause Praise
5
Transfer to Work
Master Sequence
PAUSE PRAISE
PROMPTS
CATCH THE SIGNAL:
"I noticed you put your card out before shutdown. That's Courage !"
DURING THE RESET:
"You set your timer perfectly. That's taking Responsibility !"
THE RETURN:
"You walked back and started Step One. Incredible Perseverance !"
Reinforcement Guide
SKILLS
1-4
L1: Body Signals (Catch the Drift)
L2: Pause Purpose (Tool for Control)
L3: The Signal (Ask for Help)
L4: The Reset (Menu + Timer)
Intervention Phase 1
SKILLS
5-8
L5: The Launch (Return Routine)
L6: Tracking (Success Charts)
L7: Rehearsal (Scenarios)
L8: Graduation (Independence)
Intervention Phase 2
Pause vs Play Activity PAUSE OR PLAY?
Purposeful People: Responsibility
Name: ________________________
Date: ________________________
Learning Target
"I can explain why a Pause helps my brain."
Success Criteria
I can correctly sort 4 activities.
A Pause is a tool to get your brain ready for work. Play is for fun time. Sort the activities below by writing "PAUSE" or "PLAY" in the box!
Taking 3 deep breaths
TYPE: ______________
Playing a video game
TYPE: ______________
Squeezing a stress ball
TYPE: ______________
Talking about toys
TYPE: ______________
Responsibility Check:
How does a Pause help you take Responsibility for your learning?
Pause Power Visual Kit Desktop Signal Cards
Cut these out and tape them to the student's desk corner.
I NEED
PAUSE POWER
Signal for a Reset
RESET
IN PROGRESS
Preparing to Learn
ALMOST
READY
Launching Back Soon
Custom Signal Card
PAUSE POWER
1
CATCH THE DRIFT
Notice your "Warning Lights" (Racing heart, tired brain).
2
USE THE SIGNAL
Put your card out or give the quiet signal.
3
RESET YOUR BRAIN
Follow the Reset Menu and set the timer.
4
LAUNCH BACK
Walk back quietly and pick up your pencil.
THE RESET MENU
Pick one activity for your Pause
3 Deep Breaths
Slowly in through the nose, out through the mouth.
Stress Ball
Squeeze and release 10 times with each hand.
Doodle Time
Draw exactly how you feel right now for 2 minutes.
5-4-3-2-1
Find 5 things you see, 4 you feel, 3 you hear...
Wall Pushes
Push against the wall with all your might for 10 seconds.
Quiet Rest
Close your eyes and put your head down.
THE POWER CHART
Leveling Up My Regulation
1
2
3
4
Every 5 successful Pause Power loops earns a POWER REWARD!
Current Power Rewards
THE BONUS BREAK
Add +3 minutes to your next Pause or get 1 "Free Pass" to use a Pause during a whole-class activity.
THE CHOICE CARD
Get a special sticker for your binder and pick the background music for independent work time.
A successful loop = Signal + Calm Reset + Return to Work
Reset Room Poster THE RESET SPOT
Instructional Poster for the Calm Down Area
I AM HERE TO RESET
This space is for getting my brain and body ready for learning.
SET THE TIMER
Choose 2 or 5 minutes.
STAY QUIET
Keep a level 0 voice.
PICK 1 CHOICE
Follow the Reset Menu.
LAUNCH BACK
Return when the timer beeps.
Ready for a Power Point?
Follow these steps and you'll earn a mark on your Power Chart the moment you return!
Launch Pad Desk Checklist LAUNCH PAD DESK CHECKLISTS
Cut these out and tape them to the student's desk to help with the return to work.
LAUNCH BACK
TO WORK
Clean up Reset Spot
Quiet walk to desk
Pick up my pencil
DO ONE STEP!
MY FIRST
STEPS
Open my book
Write my name
Read Question 1
Ask for help if stuck
PAUSE POWER
SUCCESS
1
Catch the Drift
2
Use the Signal
3
Calm Reset
4
Launch Back!
Teacher Note
Place the checklist that works best for your student in their line of sight. Refer to it during transitions.
Pause Power Reinforcement Guide THE POWER VOICE
Reinforcement Language Guide
The Core Philosophy
"What we water, grows."
This guide provides specific scripts to reinforce the replacement behavior (requesting and using a break) rather than attending to the avoidance behavior (shutting down, defiance). Your language should be precise, immediate, and focused on self-regulation.
Phase 1: Catching the Signal
Reinforce the transition from shutdown to communication.
Standard Praise (Weak)
"Good job asking for a break."
Pause Power Praise (Strong)
"I saw you notice your Warning Lights and put your card out quietly. That's using your Pause Power!"
Phase 2: During the Reset
Reinforce the student's effort in self-regulation.
Observation
"I see you're breathing."
Pause Power Praise (Strong)
"You chose the deep breathing menu item and set your timer perfectly. You are getting your brain ready to learn."
Phase 3: The Launch Pad (Re-entry)
This is the most critical reinforcement point.
The "Success Cycle" Script
When the student returns to their desk, use this specific sequence within 10 seconds of them sitting down:
1
The Precision Action:
"I noticed you walked back quietly and picked up your pencil immediately."
2
The Value Label:
"That shows me you've launched back and are ready for the next level."
3
The Power Point:
"Go ahead and mark your Power Chart. You earned that point for a perfect return!"
Correction & Redirection
What to say when things drift off course.
If they forget to use the signal (Shutting Down):
Avoid: "Why aren't you working? Ask for a break if you need one!"
Use: "I see your head is down. That's a Warning Light. Do you want to try using your Pause Power signal?"
If they refuse to return (Timer Beeps):
Avoid: "Get back to your desk now or you'll lose recess."
Use: "The timer says it's Launch Time. I can't wait to give you a Power Point for a quiet walk back. Let's try it."
Remember: The student is learning a new skill. Patience + Specificity = Success.
Pause Power Prompt Guide PROMPT CHEAT SHEET
Reinforcement for all 8 Lessons
The Golden Rule of Reinforcement
"Catch them doing it right. Be specific. Name the character trait."
1
Lesson 1: Body Signals (Responsibility)
"I noticed you caught your body's warning sign. That is taking Responsibility for staying ready!"
2
Lesson 2: Pause Purpose (Responsibility)
"I see you choosing a Pause tool to help your brain. That's being Responsibility with your work time!"
3
Lesson 3: The Signal (Courage)
"It took Courage to use your signal instead of giving up. Great job using your tools!"
4
Lesson 4: The Reset Room (Responsibility)
"You followed the Reset rules and set your timer. That is excellent Responsibility !"
5
Lesson 5: The Launch Pad (Perseverance)
"You walked back and started Step One immediately. That's showing real Perseverance !"
6
Lesson 6: The Power Chart (Perseverance)
"You earned a Power Mark for completing the full loop. Your Perseverance is paying off!"
7
Lesson 7: Practice Run (Cooperation)
"Total Cooperation today! You and I worked as a team to practice your Pause Power."
8
Lesson 8: Mastery (Responsibility)
"You are a Pause Power Pro! I am so proud of how you take Responsibility for your success."
Tip: Keep this guide visible or taped to your computer for quick reference during work time.
Pause Power Practice Scenarios THE PRACTICE RUN
Lesson 7: Role Play Scenarios
Cooperation in Action
In Lesson 7, we focus on Cooperation . Use these scenarios to help the student practice the full Pause Power loop in a safe, controlled environment. Encourage the student to "act out" the frustration before using the tool.
Scenario 1: The Math Maze
Independent Work
"You are working on a long subtraction page. You get to a problem that requires regrouping, and you realize you've made a mistake on the whole row. You feel your heart starting to race."
Teacher Coaching Prompt:
"I see your 'Warning Lights' are on. What's the first step of your Pause Power? Show me how you use your signal."
Scenario 2: The Direct Instruction
Whole Group
"The teacher is explaining a new science topic at the board. You are sitting at your desk and finding it hard to listen. You feel like putting your head down and shutting your eyes."
Teacher Coaching Prompt:
"You're catching the drift! Since I'm talking, how do you use your signal quietly? Remember to hold it until I can nod back to you."
Scenario 3: The Timer Beep
Transition
"You are in the Reset Spot. You are halfway through a really cool drawing, and the timer beeps. You really want to stay for one more minute."
Teacher Coaching Prompt:
"The timer says it's Launch Time. How can you show Perseverance right now? Show me your 3-2-1 return routine."
Teacher Resource | Pause Power Mastery
Pause Power Pro Plan PRO PLAN
Lesson 8: Mastery & Independence
Pro Name: ________________________
Learning Target
"I can commit to using my Pause Power independently to stay successful in class."
My Daily Routine
1
I will check my body for Warning Lights.
2
I will use my Secret Signal with Courage.
3
I will Reset using my Menu and Timer.
4
I will Launch Back and show Perseverance.
My Next Goal
"One thing I want to get even better at is..."
I will check this goal with my teacher every Friday!
Courage
Responsibility
Perseverance
Cooperation
PAUSE POWER GRADUATE
Training Complete
Student Signature
Teacher Signature
