How to play Calm Down Choices
- Read the fictional classroom situation aloud.
- Choose one strategy that could help the character.
- Discuss why it may help and whether another option could also work.
Learning goal
Recognize body and emotion clues, then choose a safe coping strategy that supports self-management.
Classroom setup
Plan about 5–12 min for this activity. It works best with whole class or small groups, with the game displayed where every learner can see the prompts. Before the first turn, review the controls and tell students how they should respond while another player is at the board. Listen for evidence of self-management and coping skills as students explain their choices.
Teacher tips
- Treat every safe choice as a possible next step rather than a test with one perfect answer.
- Model the strategy together without asking students to disclose personal experiences.
- Offer a pass or a quiet think time before inviting explanations.
Bring Calm Down Choices into your lesson
Practise choosing a coping strategy before learners need it in a difficult moment. The fictional situations make room to compare several safe responses without asking children to describe their own experiences.
Examples from the game
A preview of the ready-made content. Choose a level or customize the setup above before you start.
Level 1: Foundation
Choose a safe coping strategy for a fictional classroom moment.
- Your careful block tower falls down before you finish.
What could help you feel ready to try again?
- Take three slow breaths.
- Ask for a short pause.
- Tell a trusted adult how you feel.
Discuss: Which strategy might work best for this character? Could more than one help?
- The classroom feels noisy while you are trying to work.
What is a kind way to take care of your attention?
- Move to a quieter spot if allowed.
- Cover your ears and count slowly.
- Ask the teacher for help.
Discuss: What would make this choice safe and respectful in your classroom?
A short classroom plan
- Read a fictional situation and give everyone quiet thinking time.
- Invite pairs to choose one safe strategy. Read its explanation, then discuss when a different option could help the character.
- Model one chosen strategy together and finish by naming a trusted adult the fictional character could ask for support.
Keep participation comfortable. This is a classroom discussion activity, not an assessment or treatment. Students may pass, observe, or answer about the character; no personal disclosure is required.
Frequently asked questions
Is there one correct calm-down strategy?
No. Several options may be helpful. Discuss the character’s needs, classroom rules, and which safe choice could work in that situation.
Should children share a time they felt overwhelmed?
No. Keep the discussion fictional. Offer quiet thinking time or a pass, and follow your school’s support procedures if a child needs help.
Is this classroom game free?
Yes. The complete game is free to play without creating a teacher or student account.
Does it work on a smartboard?
Yes. The game uses large controls designed for projectors, interactive whiteboards, tablets, and laptops.
Who is this game designed for?
This version is designed primarily for grades K–6. Teachers can adjust turn-taking and verbal support for their group.