Objective
By the end of this lesson, Maximus will be able to identify and express his own feelings, understand how others might feel, and learn ways to manage those feelings. This will help him become more self-aware and improve his social interactions with friends and family.
Materials and Prep
- Books:
- "I Like Myself" by Karen Beaumont
- "Ninjas Have Feelings" by Mary Nhin
- "When I Feel Sad" by Child's Play International
- "Everyone Feels Sad Sometimes" by Dr. Danieka Owen
- Paper and crayons for drawing
- A comfortable space for reading and discussion
- Prepare a feelings chart (simple list of feelings like happy, sad, angry, etc.)
Activities
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Story Time:
Read each book aloud to Maximus, pausing to discuss the feelings expressed in the stories. Ask him how he would feel in similar situations.
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Feelings Drawing:
After reading, ask Maximus to draw a picture of a time he felt happy and a time he felt sad. Encourage him to explain his drawings and share his feelings.
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Feelings Charades:
Play a game where Maximus acts out different feelings without using words, and you guess what feeling he is showing. Then switch roles!
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Feelings Chart:
Use the feelings chart to talk about different emotions. Ask Maximus to pick a feeling and describe a time he felt that way.
Talking Points
- "What does it mean to like yourself? Can you tell me something you really like about yourself?"
- "Ninjas can have feelings just like us! How do you think a ninja would feel if they lost their favorite toy?"
- "When we feel sad, it's okay! Everyone feels sad sometimes. Can you think of something that makes you feel better when you're sad?"
- "If you see a friend looking sad, what could you do to help them feel better?"
- "Feelings are like colors! Can you show me a happy feeling with a bright color and a sad feeling with a darker color?"
- "Remember, it's okay to talk about our feelings. How do you feel today, Maximus?"