Create Coping Skills Champions 11 Week Lesson Plan

If you want to run a small group to teach kids coping skills, here’s a sample 11 week lesson plan for you to use. Each week has a fair amount of material to cover. These topics can be expanded if you have more time, or the curriculum can be shortened if you only have a few minutes each week.  The lessons focus on one type of coping skill at a time. You don't have to complete the entire coping skills checklist during one meeting. You can do the corresponding section of the coping skills checklist as you progress through the course (e.g., do the physical section of the checklist when you begin working on physical coping skills). Before group begins, send home a letter to the parents explaining what the group is about and to get permission either through an opt in or an opt out letter. I’ve included samples of both for you to use. At the beginning of each group, start with a check in sheet to get an idea of how your students are feeling that day. Practice the coping skill of the day. After you've practiced, discuss when kids could use this skill.  At the end of each group, fill out the take home sheet to help with home/school communication. This sheet also includes a blank cue card for kids to use at home. In addition, there are two handouts for parents/guardians. One handout explains how to make a coping skills toolkit, and the other explains how to create a calm down spot at home. Feel free to send these home as an additional support to families. What’s Included: Outline for 11 Weeks of a Small Group Course Opt in Parent Letter Opt Out Parent Letter What Makes Kids Feel...worksheets Coping Skills Checklist My Coping Skills & Skills to Try Feelings Rules Check In Sheet for Younger Kids Check in Sheet for Older Kids Take Home Communication Sheet Make Your Own Stress Ball Feelings Thermometer Blank Cue Cards Handout about Coping Skills Toolkits for Parents/Guardians Handout about Calm Down Spots for Parents/Guardians