Meet Energetic Erica - Healthy Habits

Energetic Erica helps children learn healthy habits. Through storytelling, movement, positive self-talk, and practice, children develop tools they can use at school, at home, and with others.

Energetic Erica’s Self-Talk

“I am energetic.”

Say the self-talk once aloud and repeat it twice quietly. Encourage children to use this phrase whenever they need help with healthy habits.

Breathe & Stretch

Begin with a short Breathe & Stretch activity to help children release physical tension, settle their bodies, and prepare their minds for learning.

Use the video below, choose another Powerful You Breathe & Stretch activity, or create your own breathing and movement ideas to fit your students’ needs.

20-Minute Lesson Plan

1. Introduce
   Show the Powerful You character picture. Introduce Energetic Erica and the theme of healthy habits.

2. Breathe & Stretch
   Use the video or lead your own breathing and movement activity to help children move, breathe, and prepare to learn.

3. Connect
   Read Energetic Erica’s story from the Powerful You Primary book or laminated Powerful You cards. Talk briefly about how the character’s experience relates to the children’s lives.

4. Practice Positive Self-Talk
   Say “I am energetic” once aloud and twice quietly. Discuss when children could use this phrase during the day.

5. Write or Draw
   Invite children to use the writing or drawing ideas included in the Powerful You Primary book.

6. Role-Play
   Invite children to hold the laminated Powerful You card and practice the skill by acting out a scenario of their choice.

7. Leave an SEL Footprint
   Display the matching Powerful You classroom skill sign as a visual reminder of the lesson.

8. Practice and Reinforce
   Look for opportunities to notice, name, and celebrate children using healthy throughout the day.

Remember

Breathe. Stretch. Practice your self-talk. You are more powerful than you know!