Grades K–5
Break Cards
Eight big cut-apart break cards: I need a break, get a drink, take a walk, quiet corner and more.
Special education printable · Calm-down and sensory supports
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.
- 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
“Circle how you feel. Then circle what you need.”
Printed on the sheet:
- 1. Right now I feel...
Words on this sheet
happyokaysadmadworriedsillya breakthe bathroomwatera snackhelpa hugquietgood
Teacher tip
Use it at the same times each day, like arrival and after lunch. A student who cannot find the words may still point to a face and a need.
How to use it
- Do it with the student. A calm adult is the best calming tool.
- Afterward, notice out loud what worked: “The breathing helped your body slow down.”
- Give help quietly and fade it fast: point before you speak, and speak before you move a hand.
Watch for
Asking a very upset student to talk. Calm first, talk later.
Talk about it
- How does your body feel right now?
- What comes next?
Take it further
Practice once a day at the same time, like after recess.
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 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.
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.
Free for teachers
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