Frustration Management Poster | What to Do When Frustrated Steps for Kids

This frustration management poster walks students through seven calm, clear steps for what to do when frustrated. Each step includes a short "why this helps" note, making it a practical coping skills poster for kids and an SEL classroom visual for any calm down corner.

What's on the Poster

• 1. Pause Your Body: stop, place hands in lap or on table, take one slow breath
• 2. Notice Your Feeling: say "I am frustrated," notice tight muscles or clenched fists
• 3. Take a Calming Break: deep breaths, stretch, count slowly to 10, drink of water, fidget, calm corner
• 4. Use Positive Self-Talk: "I can try again," "It's okay to make mistakes"
• 5. Ask for Help If You Need It: "Can you help me with this part?"
• 6. Try Again Slowly: one small step, take your time, celebrate progress
• 7. If You're Still Frustrated, Choose Another Strategy: switch tasks, use a sensory tool, take a longer break, talk to a trusted adult

How It Helps

• Gives students a predictable sequence to follow when frustration rises, instead of shutting down or escalating.
• Includes exact words for self-talk and asking for help, which supports students who struggle to find language under stress.
• Step 7 offers a backup plan, teaching students that it is fine when the first strategy does not work.

Ways to Use It

Hang it in a calm down corner, beside the classroom door, or in a resource room or counseling office so it is in view when students need it. It also works as a visual support written into IEP or BIP plans, and as a reference at home.

Who It's For

Special education teachers, general education teachers, school counselors, therapists, and parents supporting children who need help managing emotions, including autistic students and students with ADHD.

Format

High-resolution PDF and PNG, print-ready. 1 poster. Instant download.