UK Edition: Coping Strategies for Teenagers: Calm Down Cards, SEND, KS4 and Post-16

Calm down strategies written for teenagers with SEND and SEMH. Older pupils won't use anything that feels babyish, so these cards are written for secondary age.

What's included

• Calm down strategy cards

• Personal calm plan

• Practice routines and reflection pages

• Staff guidance with an opening statement and group norms

• Posters with a short adult script

How I use it

I teach the strategies when pupils are calm, not in the moment. Each pupil picks two cards to practise that week and puts them on their calm plan. Group norms come first: no mocking anyone for needing a break, and pupils can pass on sharing personal stories.

This is a teaching resource, not a crisis plan. If anyone is in danger, follow your school's procedures.

Good for KS3, KS4 and post 16.

Format: PDF, 6 A4 pages.

Made by Jeremy D. Gooch, special education teacher and transition coordinator. Drafting and layout had AI assistance; every page was checked by me.