Navigation
A review of all the feelings and tools learned to help manage emotions every day.
Imagine you have a magic backpack filled with special tools that can help you feel better whenever you are sad, scared, or mad. What would you keep inside your magic bag?
Did you know that feelings are like the weather? Sometimes it is sunny and bright (Happy). Other times, it might be rainy and quiet (Sad). Sometimes, a big thunderstorm rolls in (Angry or Scared). Just like the weather changes, our feelings change too! We can tell how we feel by looking at our bodies. A smile usually means we are happy, while a red face and tight fists might mean we are feeling a 'big' angry feeling. It is okay to have all kinds of weather in our hearts!
Quick Check
If your face feels hot and your hands are squeezed into tight balls, what feeling might you be having?
Answer
You are likely feeling Angry.
When the 'weather' in our hearts gets too loud or stormy, we use our Feelings Toolbox. These are things we do to help our bodies feel safe and calm. Some people like Deep Breathing (smell the flower, blow out the candle). Others like a Quiet Corner to read a book, or a Big Hug from a grown-up. Using a tool doesn't make the feeling go away instantly, but it helps us handle it better. Everyone has a different favorite tool!
Follow these steps to use the Balloon Breath tool: 1. Sit up tall like a mountain. 2. Put your hands on your belly. 3. Breathe in through your nose to fill your 'balloon' belly. 4. Breathe out slowly through your mouth to let the air out. Repeat times.
Quick Check
What is one tool you can use anywhere just by using your breath?
Answer
Deep breathing (or the Balloon Breath).
A Big Feeling Plan is a map for your brain to follow when you feel overwhelmed. Instead of screaming or hitting, we follow our map! A good plan has three simple steps. First, we Name It (saying 'I feel frustrated'). Second, we Use a Tool (like taking breaths). Third, we Ask for Help if we still feel stuck. Having a plan makes us feel like the boss of our feelings!
Imagine your favorite toy breaks. Here is a plan: 1. Name It: 'I feel very sad and mad.' 2. Use a Tool: Take slow breaths. 3. Ask for Help: Go find a teacher or parent to help fix the toy or give a hug.
If a friend doesn't want to share a swing, your feeling might be . 1. Name It: 'I feel left out.' 2. Use a Tool: Count to slowly. 3. Ask for Help: Use your words to tell your friend, 'I would like a turn when you are done,' or ask a teacher for a suggestion.
Which feeling is most like a sunny day?
What is the very first step of a Big Feeling Plan?
True or False: Deep breathing is a tool that can help you stay calm.
Review Tomorrow
Tomorrow morning, try to remember the 3 steps of the Big Feeling Plan: Name It, Use a Tool, and Ask for Help.
Practice Activity
Draw a picture of your 'Feelings Toolbox' and show it to a grown-up. Draw your favorite tool inside!