Feelings 101
What is the difference between a feeling and a thought?
Feelings are emotions (happy, sad, angry), thoughts are ideas in your mind.
A student is smiling and laughing with friends. What emotion is likely being shown?
Happiness
Name one calm-down strategy you can use in the classroom.
Deep breaths, counting to 10, stretching, asking for a break.
You are angry because a classmate took your pencil. What’s a calm way to handle it?
Ask politely for it back or tell the teacher.
Which part of the brain reacts quickly to danger or strong emotions?
Amygdala
Name two body clues that show someone might be angry.
Tight fists, red face, raised voice.
You feel your heart racing and palms sweating before a test. What emotion might that be?
Nervousness/Anxiety
What does “taking a deep breath” do to your brain and body?
Slows heart rate and helps calm the brain.
You’re nervous about giving a presentation. What can you do to feel more confident?
Practice, deep breaths, positive self-talk.
Which part of the brain helps you think and make decisions?
Cortex (Prefrontal Cortex)
What is one way our bodies react when we feel nervous?
Sweaty hands, shaky voice, stomachache.
A person looks down, has tears in their eyes, and doesn’t want to talk. What emotion?
Sadness
If you’re upset, why might counting to 10 help?
It gives your brain time to calm down.
You get in trouble for something you didn’t do. What is one way to respond respectfully?
Stay calm, explain calmly, or talk to teacher after class.
What happens when the amygdala “takes over” and the cortex can’t think clearly?
We may act without thinking and make poor choices.
Why is it important to recognize your feelings early?
It helps you calm down before they get too big.
You feel jumpy and can’t sit still because something exciting is about to happen. What emotion?
Excitement
Name two positive self-talk statements you could use when stressed.
“I can handle this.” / “I’ll do my best.”
A friend is sad because they failed a test. What’s one way you could show support?
Listen, comfort them, or encourage them.
Why is it important to calm your brain before making a decision?
So you can think clearly and avoid making a bad choice.
How can talking about your emotions help solve a problem?
Others can support you, and it helps you think more clearly.
You feel annoyed because someone keeps tapping their pencil. What emotion is this?
Frustration
How can movement (like stretching or walking) help with big feelings?
It releases energy and relaxes the body.
You are frustrated with a group project. What are two choices you have to stay calm?
Take a break, use coping skills, talk calmly with group.
Explain how emotions, thoughts, and actions are connected.
Emotions affect what we think and do; thoughts can change feelings and actions.