Lesson 1 Self-Soothing
2
Preparation
• Read through the entire lesson.
• View the two recommended videos (The Marshmallow Test, Three-Minute Breathing Space).
• Look over the Participant Journal pages connected with this lesson.
• Practice each self-soothing skill using the directions in the Toolkit until you are comfortable leading each
one (Focused Breathing, Peripheral Vision, and 5–4–3–2–1 Skill).
1.1 Introduction to Mind Matters |15 minutes
Preparation Check
_____PowerPoint Lesson 1
_____Flipchart/board and markers (for group agreements)
Rationale
The goal of this section is to create a safe space for the participants.
INTRODUCTION TO MIND MATTERS
Introduce yourself and your co-leader, modeling the way you would like the participants
to introduce themselves. Consider the number of participants and the amount of time that you have when
deciding what to have each person share about themselves. Participants might share an interest, favorite place, or
something they do for fun. Have each person at least share their name and one of the above suggestions.
Discuss General Logistics
Provide needed information, such as when the group will end, breaks, snacks, childcare details, etc.
Create a Safe Environment
Discuss and decide on group agreements that should include, but are not limited to, respect and confidentiality.
Be clear with the participants that everything shared in the room is confidential, unless it necessitates reporting.
Share information related to mandated reporting following your program’s policies and procedures.
Special Note to Instructor: The following statement will be repeated at the beginning of each lesson and as
needed to ensure a safe space: The various skills and exercises we will be teaching are designed to change levels
of personal awareness. If anyone experiences discomfort with a skill, please stop your practice, sit quietly, and relax.
Should the uneasiness continue, raise your hand so you can be helped.
Let’s GO!
2
Preparation
• Read through the entire lesson.
• View the two recommended videos (The Marshmallow Test, Three-Minute Breathing Space).
• Look over the Participant Journal pages connected with this lesson.
• Practice each self-soothing skill using the directions in the Toolkit until you are comfortable leading each
one (Focused Breathing, Peripheral Vision, and 5–4–3–2–1 Skill).
1.1 Introduction to Mind Matters |15 minutes
Preparation Check
_____PowerPoint Lesson 1
_____Flipchart/board and markers (for group agreements)
Rationale
The goal of this section is to create a safe space for the participants.
INTRODUCTION TO MIND MATTERS
Introduce yourself and your co-leader, modeling the way you would like the participants
to introduce themselves. Consider the number of participants and the amount of time that you have when
deciding what to have each person share about themselves. Participants might share an interest, favorite place, or
something they do for fun. Have each person at least share their name and one of the above suggestions.
Discuss General Logistics
Provide needed information, such as when the group will end, breaks, snacks, childcare details, etc.
Create a Safe Environment
Discuss and decide on group agreements that should include, but are not limited to, respect and confidentiality.
Be clear with the participants that everything shared in the room is confidential, unless it necessitates reporting.
Share information related to mandated reporting following your program’s policies and procedures.
Special Note to Instructor: The following statement will be repeated at the beginning of each lesson and as
needed to ensure a safe space: The various skills and exercises we will be teaching are designed to change levels
of personal awareness. If anyone experiences discomfort with a skill, please stop your practice, sit quietly, and relax.
Should the uneasiness continue, raise your hand so you can be helped.
Let’s GO!
