Deep breathing is an essential tool that plays a crucial role in self-regulation. Teaching elementary school students how to use deep breaths to calm down is something school counselors, social workers, and psychologists can effortlessly incorporate into their intervention work through MTSS. In this blog post, we’ll explore a comprehensive lesson plan, including a Free Elementary Deep Breathing Activity & Lesson, to guide children in mastering this critical life skill.
Introduction to Deep Breathing and Self-Regulation
In today’s fast-paced world, children are often confronted with situations that may lead to stress and anxiety. Teaching them the art of deep breathing not only helps in self-regulation but also lays the foundation for a healthier and more balanced life.
Lesson Plan: Free Elementary Deep Breathing Activity & Lesson
This simple and no-prep lesson plan is designed with elementary school students in mind. Engage them with the interactive breathing activity from Everyday Speech to ensure an enjoyable learning experience.
Objectives:
- Understanding the importance of deep breathing
- Practicing deep breathing techniques
- Applying deep breathing in everyday stressful situations
Materials Needed:
- Comfortable seating or floor mats
- Everyday Speech Interactive Activity
- Visualization cards or pictures
- Timer or stopwatch
Lesson Structure
Introduction (5 minutes)
- Discuss Stress & Anxiety: Ask students when they feel stressed or anxious and introduce deep breathing as a solution.
- Define Self-Regulation: Explain how deep breathing is a part of self-regulation.
Interactive Deep Breathing Practice (5 minutes)
- Demonstrate: Show the proper way to take a deep breath.
- Practice Together: Using a timer, guide students through inhaling for 5 seconds, holding for 5 seconds, and exhaling for 5 seconds.
- Repeat: Do this several times to make sure they grasp the technique.
Scenario Role-Play (10 minutes)
- Introduce Scenarios: Introduce scenarios where deep breathing can be applied (i.e., before a test, tryout, or when upset with a sibling or friend).
- Role-Play: Have students act out these scenarios and apply deep breathing to calm down.
- Discuss: Encourage reflection and discussion after each role-play.
Visualization and Deep Breathing (5 minutes)
- Show Visuals: Introduce Everyday Speech’s Interactive Deep Breathing Activity from the Self-Regulation Academy.
- Guide Deep Breathing: As a class, complete the activity and practice deep breathing.
Conclusion (5 minutes)
Reflect: Discuss what they have learned and how they can apply deep breathing in real-life.
Transition to a Calm and Balanced Life
The Free Elementary Deep Breathing Activity & Lesson can be a gateway for children to a more mindful and tranquil life. When students learn to control their breath, they are empowered to control their emotions.
Tips and Additional Ideas
- Adapt to Your Class: Adjust the timing and activities based on your students’ needs and responsiveness.
- Create a Calming Environment: Soft music or dim lighting can enhance the deep breathing experience.
- Use Technology: Apps or online videos, such as Everyday Speech’s social learning platform, can be used to guide deep breathing exercises.
Conclusion: Deep Breathing as a Lifelong Skill
The Free Elementary Deep Breathing Activity & Lesson is not just another classroom lesson. It’s a gift of a lifelong skill that students can carry with them. By engaging children in these practices, you set the stage for a more mindful generation.
Explore our website for more resources on self-regulation, mindfulness, and mental well-being. Remember, the journey to self-regulation begins with a single breath.
Sample Video
Students learn best from watching real students their own age model skills. Try out this sample video-modeling lesson below. We offer our entire Social-Emotional Learning platform free for 30 days here!
Related Blog Posts:
Exploring Deep Breathing: A Key Social-Emotional Skill for 5th Graders
Box Breathing: A Simple Technique to Help Students Regain Calm and Focus
