Lesson Plan
Pause Power Lesson Plan
Students will learn to use the “Pause and Plan” self‐control strategy to manage strong feelings by practicing deliberate pausing, breathing, and choosing helpful actions in various scenarios.
Teaching ‘pause and plan’ boosts emotional regulation, reduces impulsive actions, and empowers 2nd graders to make thoughtful choices—supporting a calmer classroom and stronger peer interactions.
Audience
Time
Approach
Materials
Prep
Teacher Preparation
15 minutes
Step 1
Introduction to Self-Control
10 minutes
Step 2
Modeling “Pause and Plan”
15 minutes
Step 3
Guided Practice with Scenario Cards
30 minutes
Step 4
Individual Reflection
15 minutes
Step 5
Class Debrief and Reinforcement
20 minutes
Slide Deck
Pause Power: Pause and Plan
Today’s Agenda
What Is Self-Control?
Pause and Plan Steps
Modeling “Pause and Plan”
Guided Practice
Individual Reflection
Class Debrief & Rewards
Remember to Pause and Plan!
Activity
Worksheet
