Size of the Problem
You can’t find your favorite pencil. Is this Small, Medium, or Big?
Small Problem because you can find another pencil or ask to borrow one.
If you have a Small Problem, should your reaction be Small or Big?
Small reaction because your reaction should match the problem
Name a "Tool" you can use involving your breath.
Deep Breathing (Star breathing, belly breaths, or blowing out candles).
Scenario: You skin your knee.
Tool: Band-aid and a hug.
Is this a match?
Yes, it's a match. A small problem (boo-boo) gets a small tool.
True or False: It is okay to feel angry.
True. All feelings are okay! It’s what we do with the feeling that matters.
Two friends are arguing over who goes first in a game. What size is this?
Medium Problem because it involves feelings and other people, so it might need a teacher’s help to solve.
You start screaming because you got a paper cut. Is the reaction too big?
Yes, it is too big. A paper cut is a small problem; screaming is a big reaction.
If you feel "wiggly" or have alot of energy to get out, what tool can you use to calm your body?
Movement Tools. (Doing wall pushes, taking a walk, or using a fidget)
Scenario: You lost a game.
Tool: Throwing the game board.
Is this a match?
No, it's not a match. Losing a game is a small/medium problem, but throwing things is a "Big Reaction."
True or False: A "Big Problem" is something you can fix all by yourself.
False. Big problems usually need help from an adult to stay safe.
You see someone falling from the monkey bars. What size is this?
Big Problem because someone might be hurt
What is a "Medium Reaction" for a "Medium Problem"? (Give an example)
Feeling sad or annoyed, frowning, and asking an adult for help (without screaming).
Where can you go in the classroom if you need a "Reset" or break?
The Calm Down Corner (or a "Zen Den" / "Peace Area")
Scenario: You forgot your lunch.
Tool: Take 3 deep breaths and tell a teacher.
Is this a match?
300: Yes, it's a match. Forgetting lunch is a medium problem that an adult can help fix.
True or False: Using a tool makes the problem go away instantly.
False. Tools help your body feel calm, but you might still need to work to fix the problem afterward.
You worked hard on a drawing and someone accidentally ripped it. Size?
Medium problem: It feels big because you worked hard, but it can be fixed with tape or by starting over with help
If you have a "Big Problem," who is the first person you should find?
A trusted adult
Name a tool you can use that doesn't involve talking or moving.
Counting to 10 or taking a "mental vacation" (picturing a happy place).
Scenario: Someone is being Unkind.
Tool: Using an "I Statement" like "I don't like that."
Is this a match?
Yes, it's a match. Using your words is a great tool for social problems.
True or False: Your "Size of the Reaction" should match the "Size of the Problem."
True. This is called "Emotional Regulation."
Give an example of a "Huge/Emergency" problem.
Someone gets hurt on the playground, a car accident, or a fire
Why is it hard to pick a tool when our reaction is too big?
Because our "Thinking Brain" turns off and our "Feeling Brain" takes over. We have to calm down before we can think clearly
What is a "Positive Self-Talk" tool you can say in your head?
"I can do this," "I am safe," or "I just need a break."
Scenario: You can't solve a problem in math and begin to feel angry.
Tool: Counting to 10 and asking for help.
Is this a match?
Yes, it's a match. Counting helps you stay calm while you wait for help
True or False: Everyone uses the exact same tools to feel better.
False. Everyone is different! Some people like drawing to calm down, while others like to run or jump.