Unit Plan 14 (Grade 1 Counselor): Stop, Calm, Think, Choose

Focus: Teach students a simple problem-solving routine they can use during peer conflict. The counselor models the steps: stop, calm the body, name the problem, think of safe choices, and choose one. Students practice with puppet scenarios such as two students wanting the same material, someone cutting in line, or a friend not following game rules.

Grade Level: 1

Subject Area: School Counseling (Problem-Solving • Conflict Resolution • Safe Choices)

Total Unit Duration: 1–2 weeks, 30 minutes per session

I. Introduction

This Grade 1 counseling lesson helps students learn a simple routine for solving peer problems safely and respectfully. Students learn that conflicts can happen during games, group work, recess, line order, sharing materials, and classroom routines. The lesson gives students a clear process they can remember when emotions get big or when they are not sure what to do next.

The counselor teaches the steps Stop, Calm, Think, Choose in a Grade 1-friendly way. Students practice stopping before reacting, calming their bodies, naming the problem, thinking of safe choices, and choosing one respectful action. The goal is for students to understand that problem-solving is not about winning or getting their way every time; it is about using safe words, fair choices, and adult help when needed.

Essential Questions

• What can students do before reacting to a conflict?
• How can calming the body help students solve problems?
• How can students name a problem clearly?
• What are safe and respectful choices during peer conflict?
• When should students ask an adult for help?

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to:

1. Name the steps in a simple problem-solving routine: stop, calm, think, and choose.
2. Identify common peer conflicts, such as wanting the same material, cutting in line, disagreeing about game rules, or feeling bothered by a classmate’s behavior.
3. Practice calming the body before choosing a response.
4. Name the problem in a clear and simple sentence.
5. Think of safe choices such as using words, taking turns, compromising, walking away, or asking an adult for help.
6. Practice respectful conflict phrases such as “Please stop,” “Let’s take turns,” or “I do not like that.”
7. (Optional Session) Apply the Stop, Calm, Think, Choose routine through puppet scenarios, role-play, sorting cards, or partner practice.

Standards Alignment — Grade 1 (ASCA-based Custom)

• C:S4.1b — Use Simple Problem-Solving Steps
  • Use basic steps such as stop, calm down, name the problem, think of choices, choose a safe solution, and try it.
  • Example: A student practices saying, “Let’s take turns,” after naming the problem with a partner.
• C:S4.1c — Solve Conflicts Safely and Respectfully
  • Use words, compromise, turn-taking, walking away, or adult help to solve peer problems without hurting others.
  • Example: A student says, “Please stop. I do not like that,” and then asks an adult for help if the problem continues.

Success Criteria — Student Language

• I can stop before I react.
• I can calm my body.
• I can name the problem.
• I can think of safe choices.
• I can choose a respectful solution.
• I can ask an adult for help if the problem is too big or keeps happening.