Body Clues Facilitator Guide Squad Skills • Week 1
Body Clues Facilitator Guide
30-40 Min Session
Session Mission
Help boys recognize early physical alarm signals (clenched fists, racing heart, heat in face) on a 1-5 Spark Meter before reaching the explosive Level 5 red zone.
1. Squad Kickoff (7m)
High-five check-in & "Engine Check" warm-up. Introduce the Spark Meter concept.
2. Clue Detective (15m)
Map internal physical warning signs on the body map worksheet with peer model demos.
3. Spark Test & Wrap (10m)
Quick scenario simulation and personal cue pledge to unlock the Week 1 badge.
Facilitator Script & Prompts
Opening: "Welcome, squad! Think about a race car dashboard. Before an engine overheats, warning lights flash. Our bodies do the exact same thing before anger explodes. If we catch the signal at Level 2, we stay in control."
Guided Probe: "When a game feels unfair or someone bumps into you, where is the very first spot your body turns on the heat? Hands, stomach, teeth, or shoulders?"
Peer Role-Model Integration Protocol
Pre-brief with Peer Model before session: Ask them to share a vulnerable, realistic example first so others don't feel defensive.
Cue Prompt to Peer Model: "[Name], when you're playing four-square and get called out, what early body clue warns you that you're getting frustrated?"
Target Peer Model Response: "My teeth clench tight and my breathing gets fast. That tells me I'm hitting Level 2 before I say something mean."
Common Group Pitfalls
Boys saying "I just go from 0 to 100 with no warning." (Reframe: Slow down the replay tape by 5 seconds).
Mocking peers' physical triggers. (Enforce Squad Confidentiality Rule immediately).
Success Indicators
Each boy names at least 2 specific physical warning sensations.
Boys reference their level (e.g., "I felt at a Level 3 yesterday") during debrief.
Squad Skills Curriculum • Facilitator Coaching System Session 1 of 6
Body Clues Student Log Squad Skills • Mission 1
Body Clues Detective Log
Name:
Date:
The Squad Spark Meter Catch the spark at Level 2 or 3 before Level 5!
LVL 1 Cool & Calm
LVL 2 First Clue
LVL 3 Simmering
LVL 4 Near Boil
LVL 5 Explosion
My Physical Warning Clues
Check (✓) all the signals your body sends when anger starts:
🔥 Face or ears feel hot / red ✊ Hands clench into tight fists 💓 Heart beats super fast 🌪️ Knot or butterflies in stomach 😬 Clenched jaw / grinding teeth 😤 Fast, shallow breathing
Body Radar Map
Draw an arrow or circle your top 2 body zones:
[ Mark your hot spots here ]
My Spark Triggers & Early Warning Sign
1. A situation that usually sparks my temper in school or games is:
2. My #1 earliest physical warning clue that tells me I am at Level 2 is:
3. When I feel this clue, the very first thing I will do is:
Week 1 Skill Mastered: Body Clue Detective I can spot physical alarm clues before I reach Level 5!
Squad Certified ✓
Reset Button Facilitator Guide Squad Skills • Week 2
Reset Button Facilitator Guide
30-40 Min Session
Session Mission
Equip boys with 3 tactical, dignified cool-down tools (Box Breathing, Robot-to-Ragdoll muscle release, and the Strategic Break Signal) so they can de-escalate before causing harm.
1. Pulse Check (7m)
Review Week 1 body clues. Discuss difference between "storming off" vs. "strategic pit stop."
2. Toolkit Drills (15m)
Physical practice of 4x4 Box Breath and Robot-to-Ragdoll tension reset with peer model.
3. Pit Stop Protocol (10m)
Role-play using the "1-minute timeout sign" in a high-stakes recess game simulation.
Facilitator Script & Prompts
Hook: "In Formula 1 racing, a car doesn't crash when tires get worn—it makes a fast, planned pit stop to reset. Taking a self-break isn't quitting; it's high-level strategy."
Explicit Instruction: "Storming off makes friends feel attacked and starts drama. Taking a 'Strategic Break' means saying: 'I need 2 minutes to reset, then I'll rejoin.' You stay in control."
Peer Role-Model Integration Protocol
Role Model Coaching Focus: Have the peer model demonstrate how taking a break is confident, not embarrassing.
Simulation Role-Play: Facilitator acts as an annoying opponent who cheats in handball.
Peer Model Scripted Move: The peer model gives the calm "T" timeout hand sign and says clearly: "Hey, I need a quick water break to reset. Let's restart the point in one minute." Then takes 3 slow belly breaths.
Tool 1: 4x4 Box Breath
Inhale 4s -> Hold 4s -> Exhale 4s -> Hold 4s. Lowers heart rate instantly by signaling the brain's calm center.
Tool 2: Robot to Ragdoll
Clench shoulders and fists super tight for 5 seconds (Robot), then release completely limp (Ragdoll). Releases physical adrenaline.
Squad Skills Curriculum • Facilitator Coaching System Session 2 of 6
Reset Button Toolkit Worksheet Squad Skills • Mission 2
Reset Button Power Toolkit
Name:
Date:
Tool #1: The 4x4 Breath Box
Trace the arrows with your finger while you breathe:
⬆️ Inhale (4s) ➡️ Hold (4s) ⬇️ Exhale (4s) ⬅️ Rest (4s) 4 Cycles = Total Reset
✓ Practice 2 full box cycles right now
Tool #2: Robot to Ragdoll
How to dump sudden physical anger tension:
Step 1
Robot Lock: Squeeze fists and shoulders tight like iron for 5 seconds.
Step 2
Ragdoll Drop: Exhale loudly and let your entire upper body go completely floppy.
✓ Notice how your heart slows down
Tactical Move or Friendship Hazard?
Check (✓) which action protects your squad friendships:
❌ Hazard: Storming Off
• Kicking a cone or throwing game pieces
• Yelling "This game is stupid!" and running away
• Leaving teammates confused and angry
✅ Tactical Move: Strategic Break
• Giving the timeout signal calmly
• Saying: "Taking a quick breather to drink water."
• Returning ready to play fairly in 2 minutes
My Tactical Break Script
Fill in what you will say to your friends when you feel Level 3 anger:
"Hey guys, I need a quick pit stop / breather because my engine is hitting Level 3."
"While I reset, I am going to box breathe / get a drink."
"I will be back in 2 minutes ready to play!"
Week 2 Skill Mastered: Reset Button Pilot I know how to take a dignified tactical break to protect my crew!
Squad Certified ✓
Perspective Radar Facilitator Guide Squad Skills • Week 3
Perspective Radar Facilitator Guide
30-40 Min Session
Session Mission
Activate boys' empathy and perspective radar to understand the "Blast Radius" of sudden explosions—helping them see how sudden outbursts make peers feel unsafe or hesitant to play.
1. The VR Helmet (7m)
Metaphor: Stepping into "Player 2's Camera View" to see what they see and feel during a game.
2. Blast Radius Map (15m)
Analyze 2 realistic recess scenarios on the activity sheet. Peer model shares candid reactions.
3. Safety Zones (10m)
Establish the "Squad Safety Bubble"—how voice volume, posture, and eye contact build trust.
Facilitator Script & Prompts
Opening Concept: "When a volcano erupts, the lava doesn't just stay inside the crater—it creates a blast radius. When we yell or throw something, what happens to the people standing nearby?"
Empathy Probe: "If your friend gets tagged in tag and kicks the ball across the fence and screams in your face, do you want to keep playing with them right then? Why or why not?"
Peer Role-Model Integration Protocol
Key Strategy: Have the peer model validate feelings while explaining the social impact with warmth, not judgment.
Facilitator Cue to Peer Model: "[Name], when someone gets really loud and angry in soccer, how does it feel for the other players on the field?"
Target Peer Model Response: "It makes me tense up and want to avoid passing to them because I worry they'll yell if I make a mistake. When they stay calm, everyone plays better."
The Sound & Space Check
Loud shouting and towering over peers sends a threat signal to their brain. Keeping voice at Level 2 and body back 2 feet keeps peers feeling safe.
The Safety Bubble Rule
"Everyone in our squad deserves to play without fear of an explosion." Reinforce that feeling mad is okay, but exploding onto others is not.
Squad Skills Curriculum • Facilitator Coaching System Session 3 of 6
Perspective Radar Activity Sheet Squad Skills • Mission 3
Perspective Radar Scanner
Name:
Date:
👀 Switch your camera view to Player 2's Eyes ! How do your words and body feel to them?
Scene A: The Explosion Level 5
What happens: Leo misses a goal in soccer. He kicks the ball away, shouts "You guys all cheat!" and glares.
Player 2's Radar:
• Feelings: Nervous, annoyed, uncomfortable.
• Friendship Impact: Friends don't want to pass him the ball next round.
Scene B: Tactical Reset Level 2
What happens: Leo misses a goal. He takes one big exhale, clenches and un-clenches his fists, and jogs back on defense.
Player 2's Radar:
• Feelings: Safe, motivated, proud of teammate.
• Friendship Impact: Teammates cheer: "Good try! We got the next one!"
Radar Decoder Challenge
Scenario 1: You get tagged out in Four Square when you thought the ball bounced twice.
If you scream & refuse to leave: Classmates feel:
If you say "Good hit" & step to back of line: Classmates feel:
Scenario 2: A classmate accidentally knocks over your block tower.
If you shove their blocks down: They feel:
If you take a breath & ask for help rebuilding: They feel:
My Squad Safety Pledge
🔊 Voice Level: Keep at Level 1 or 2
📏 Space Bubble: 2 arms' length away
🤝 Respect: Words build, don't crush
Week 3 Skill Mastered: Perspective Radar Scout I can see how my actions feel to Player 2 and keep our squad safe!
Squad Certified ✓
Game Changers Facilitator Guide Squad Skills • Week 4
Game Changers Facilitator Guide
30-40 Min Session
Session Mission
Coach boys through the high-stakes emotional intensity of winning, losing, and sharing control during games. Transition boys from "Sore Losers / Gloating Winners" to "Game Changer Teammates."
1. The Heat Check (7m)
Discuss why losing feels like physical pain to competitive kids. Reframe losing as "XP building."
2. Live Game Lab (15m)
Play a fast-paced mini-game (e.g. Rock-Paper-Scissors Championship or Uno) with live sportsmanship scoring.
3. Playbook Debrief (10m)
Complete the Game Changers Playbook and practice the 3-second handshake routine.
Facilitator Script & Prompts
Hook: "True pro athletes aren't defined by how they act when they win by 20 points—they are defined by how they handle a bad call or a tough loss. Anyone can smile when winning. Greatness is staying cool when you lose."
The 20-Second Rule: "When a game ends, your brain gets flooded. You have 2 choices: (1) Blame teammates / flip out, or (2) Give knuckles, say 'Good game,' and look at what to improve next time."
Peer Role-Model Integration Protocol
Role Model Demonstration: During the mini-game, deliberately have the peer model lose a close round to model gracious losing in real time.
Peer Model Reaction to Model: Exhale, smile, give a high-five, and say: "Aw man, nice shot! You caught me off guard. Good match!"
Facilitator Reinforcement: "Squad, look at [Name]'s body language! No stomping, no whining—just pure sportsmanship. That's a true Game Changer."
Humble in Victory
No trash-talking, teasing, or "L" signs on forehead. Say: "Great hustle, that was a close game."
Dignified in Defeat
No throwing controllers, quitting mid-match, or claiming the game is rigged. Keep your head up.
Squad Skills Curriculum • Facilitator Coaching System Session 4 of 6
Game Changers Playbook Worksheet Squad Skills • Mission 4
Game Changers Playbook
Name:
Date:
🎮 The #1 Rule of Fun: Friendships are more important than winning any game.
Pro Move vs. Foul Move Challenge
Check (✓) the box for each game situation:
1. Shouting "You always cheat!" when you miss a tag
Pro Move Foul Move
2. Giving knuckles and saying "Great save, goalie!"
Pro Move Foul Move
3. Demanding that everyone only plays your rules
Pro Move Foul Move
4. Taking a 1-minute water reset when losing 5-0
Pro Move Foul Move
The "Shared Remote" Rule
If one person always decides what game to play and makes all the rules, other kids get tired of playing with them.
Power Strategy: "Let's play your game first for 10 minutes, then my game for 10 minutes!"
The 3-Second Post-Game Drill
Right when the whistle blows or game ends, do this before walking away:
1. Make eye contact
2. Fist bump / High-five
3. Say: "Good game, nice effort!"
My Sportsmanship Game Plan
When I lose a game at recess, instead of getting mad, I will say:
When someone else wins, I will show respect by:
Week 4 Skill Mastered: Game Changer MVP I know how to play hard, lose with dignity, and keep games fun for everyone!
Squad Certified ✓
Bridge Builders Facilitator Guide Squad Skills • Week 5
Bridge Builders Facilitator Guide
30-40 Min Session
Session Mission
Train boys to fix friendship ruptures using the 4-Step Bridge Repair Framework, eliminating empty mumbles ("sorry") and "fake apologies" with excuses ("sorry IF you got mad").
1. The Broken Bridge (7m)
Metaphor: An explosion damages the bridge between friends. A real apology rebuilds planks.
2. The 4 Steps (15m)
Break down the 4 steps: Name action, Own impact, Future plan, Make amends. Peer model demo.
3. Repair Role-Play (10m)
Paired practice repairing a realistic clash (knocked-over game / angry words at recess).
Facilitator Script & Prompts
Hook: "Everyone makes mistakes. Even the best friends argue. But what separates tough, mature kids from little kids is knowing how to fix the damage instead of ignoring it."
Calling Out Fake Apologies: "If you say 'Sorry you're so sensitive' or 'Sorry BUT you started it,' that's not an apology—that's throwing another rock at the bridge! Real apologies take courage."
Peer Role-Model Integration Protocol
Demonstration Role-Play: Peer model performs all 4 steps flawlessly in front of the squad.
Scenario: Accidental bump that led to yelling at recess.
Peer Model Script: "1. I'm sorry I yelled and slammed the ball down. 2. That was unfair and made you feel uncomfortable. 3. Next time, I will do my 4x4 box breathing before speaking. 4. Can I help clean up the cones and pass to you first next game?"
1
Own It
"I am sorry for [specific action]."
2
Impact
"This hurt/frustrated you because..."
3
Next Time
"Next time I get mad, I will..."
4
Make Amends
"How can I help make this right?"
Squad Skills Curriculum • Facilitator Coaching System Session 5 of 6
Bridge Builders Repair Worksheet Squad Skills • Mission 5
Bridge Builders Repair Blueprint
Name:
Date:
Fake Apology Alarm: Spot the Excuse!
Real apologies never use "IF" or "BUT". Circle whether each one is REAL or FAKE:
"Sorry IF you got your feelings hurt." FAKE ❌
"I'm sorry I yelled and kicked the ball." REAL ✅
"Sorry BUT you were in my way first!" FAKE ❌
"How can I help fix the tower I broke?" REAL ✅
The 4-Step Bridge Repair Builder
1 Own the Action: (Name exactly what you did)
"I am sorry for
."
2 Acknowledge the Impact: (Show you understand their feelings)
"I realize that made you feel
."
3 Replacement Action Plan: (What cool-down tool will you use next time?)
"Next time I feel frustrated, I will
."
4 Make Amends: (Offer to fix or help)
"To make things right, can I
?"
Squad Practice Check:
Calm eye contact No excuses ("if/but") Fist bump or handshake
Week 5 Skill Mastered: Master Bridge Builder I have the strength and courage to fix mistakes and repair friendships!
Squad Certified ✓
Squad Champions Facilitator Guide Squad Skills • Week 6 (Finale)
Squad Champions Facilitator Guide
30-40 Min Session
Session Mission
Synthesize the complete 6-week curriculum (Body Clues, Reset Buttons, Perspective Radar, Sportsmanship, Bridge Repair). Cement long-term friendship habits through the Squad Pact and celebration ceremony.
1. Highlight Reel (8m)
Review the 5 badges. Share specific, observable moments where each boy showed emotional control.
2. Pact Signing (15m)
Complete and sign the Squad Friendship Pact worksheet. Peer model shares an affirmation for each boy.
3. Pin Ceremony (10m)
Official presentation of Squad Champion certification and final high-energy team cheer.
Facilitator Script & Prompts
Celebration Opening: "Look around this table. Six weeks ago, small sparks turned into huge explosions. Today, you are certified Squad Champions who know your body clues, take strategic resets, play with honor, and know how to fix mistakes."
Maintenance Prompt: "When you go out to recess tomorrow, you are the leaders on the blacktop. Other kids will watch how you handle bad calls and tough moments."
Peer Role-Model Integration Protocol
Peer Recognition Drill: The peer model provides a genuine shout-out to each member in the circle.
Peer Model Prompt: "[Name], give a quick example of a time you saw someone in our squad use their Reset Button or Bridge Repair on the playground."
Outcome: Builds genuine peer-to-peer validation, making prosocial behavior the cool standard.
Complete 6-Week Skill Synthesis
✓ Week 1: Spotting early bodily sparks at Level 2
✓ Week 2: 4x4 Box Breath & Strategic Breaks
✓ Week 3: Player 2 Radar & Safe Zones
✓ Week 4: Sharing control & gracious sportsmanship
✓ Week 5: The 4-Step Sincere Apology & Relationship Repair
Squad Skills Curriculum • Facilitator Coaching System Session 6 of 6
Squad Champions Contract Worksheet Squad Skills • Mission 6
Squad Champions Friendship Pact
Champion:
Date:
My 6-Week Squad Badge Collection
🔥 W1: Body Clues Earned ✓
🔄 W2: Reset Button Earned ✓
👀 W3: Perspective Earned ✓
🏆 W4: Sportsmanship Earned ✓
🌉 W5: Bridge Repair Earned ✓
My Official Squad Friendship Promises
Check (✓) each promise to seal your commitment:
1. Catch My Sparks Early: I will pay attention to my body clues and notice anger at Level 2 before it reaches Level 5.
2. Take Tactical Resets: If I feel overloaded, I will take a 4x4 box breath or strategic pit stop instead of exploding.
3. Play Like a Champion: I will share control, play fairly, win with humility, and lose with dignity.
4. Repair Harm Fast: When I make a mistake, I will use the 4-Step Sincere Apology with no excuses.
Peer Role-Model Shoutout A positive strength my peer model noticed in me:
My Personal Growth Goal The skill I am most proud of practicing:
Squad Champion Signature:
Facilitator / Coach Seal:
Certified Squad Champion • 6-Week Curriculum Graduate Equipped with skills to make, keep, and repair strong friendships!
Official Graduate 🎓
