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.
Special education printable · Calm-down and sensory supports
My Sensory Helpers
A sensory plan: sounds, lights, touch, moving and smells, what bothers me or what I like, and what helps.
- Grade level
- Grades 1–5
- Time
- About 15 minutes
- Answer key
- Not needed: answers vary
- Kids practice
- Self-regulation, Naming feelings, Using calming strategies, Asking for a break
What kids do
“For each sense, check what is true for you. Then write what helps.”
Printed on the sheet:
- One thing my teacher can do to help me:
Words on this sheet
I like itLoud soundsBright lightsTouch andMoving andStrong smellsplaces
Teacher tip
Fill this in with the student and, if you can, the family and the occupational therapist. Kids often know exactly what bothers them when someone asks.
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.
- Use the same words every time you use the page. Short, steady language helps it stick.
Watch for
Breaks that turn into escape from every hard task. Use a timer and come back to the work.
Talk about it
- How does your body feel right now?
- What comes next?
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 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.
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.
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.
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.