Grades K–5
My Calm-Down Menu
Twelve calm-down choices with pictures to circle, plus a box to draw your favorite way to calm down.
Special education printable · Calm-down and sensory supports
Break Cards
Eight big cut-apart break cards: I need a break, get a drink, take a walk, quiet corner and more.
- Grade level
- Grades K–5
- Time
- About 5 minutes
- Answer key
- Not needed: answers vary
- Kids practice
- Self-regulation, Naming feelings, Using calming strategies, Asking for a break
What kids do
“Cut out the cards. Show a card when you need a break.”
Words on this sheet
I need abreakQuiet cornerDeep breathsminutes
Teacher tip
Give the student a set number of break cards for the day at first, and honor every one. Trust that a break will come is what makes the cards work.
How to use it
- Teach and practice the strategy when the student is calm, so it is ready when they are not.
- Keep the page in a calm corner with a timer and a few sensory tools.
- Laminate it or slide it into a sheet protector so it lasts all year and wipes clean.
Watch for
Breaks that turn into escape from every hard task. Use a timer and come back to the work.
Talk about it
- What helped you feel calmer?
- What helped you do that by yourself?
Take it further
Make a small ring of the student’s three best strategies to keep in a pocket or on a lanyard.
US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.
More calm-down and sensory supports
Grades 1–5
My Sensory Helpers
A sensory plan: sounds, lights, touch, moving and smells, what bothers me or what I like, and what helps.
Grades K–5
Square and Star Breathing
Two breathing shapes to trace with a finger: square breathing (in, hold, out, hold) and star breathing, then a feelings check.
Grades K–5
How Do I Feel? Check-In
A picture check-in: circle a feeling face, then circle what would help, like a break, water, help or a hug.
Free for teachers
Get the free Classroom Drawing Kit
12 printable pages: six step-by-step lessons, a grid activity, draw-and-write sheets and teacher notes, sent with your welcome email. After that, new classroom printables by email.