Feelings First
Name 3 emotions besides happy/sad
Angry, nervous, excited (many acceptable answers).
What’s one way to calm down when you’re upset?
Deep breathing, counting to 10, walking away, talking to someone.
What is empathy?
Understanding and sharing someone else’s feelings.
What’s one quality of a good friend?
Trustworthy, kind, loyal, fun, supportive (many possible answers).
What is a consequence?
A result or outcome of your actions, can be positive or negative.
What’s the difference between a mood and a feeling?
A mood lasts longer and may not have a clear cause; a feeling is often short-term and tied to something specific.
What’s a “trigger”?
Something that causes a strong emotional reaction, often negative.
How can body language help you understand someone?
It gives clues about how they feel, even if they don’t say it out loud.
What should you do if you have a misunderstanding with a friend?
Talk it out calmly, listen, and try to understand their side.
What would you do if you saw someone being bullied?
Tell a trusted adult, stand up for them if it’s safe, support the person.
How can you tell someone is feeling anxious?
They may seem fidgety, avoid eye contact, bite nails, speak quickly, or seem worried.
What is deep breathing, and how does it help?
Slow, controlled breathing that helps calm the body and mind.
How can you show someone you’re listening?
Eye contact, nodding, not interrupting, repeating what they said.
Why is apologizing important?
It shows you care and take responsibility for your actions.
How can you make a responsible choice under pressure?
Pause, think of the consequences, ask for help, listen to your gut.
Why is it okay to feel angry sometimes?
All emotions are normal. It’s how we handle anger that matters.
Create your own coping strategy.
Answers will vary (e.g., listening to music, journaling, squeezing a stress ball).
What would you do if you saw a classmate sitting alone?
Sit with them, invite them to join you, or ask if they’re okay.
How can you handle peer pressure respectfully?
Say no confidently, suggest something else, walk away, ask for help.
Give an example of short-term vs. long-term thinking.
Eating junk food now vs. staying healthy later; skipping homework now vs. bad grades later.
Describe a time you felt two emotions at once. What were they?
Answers will vary (e.g., nervous and excited before a performance). Encourage sharing and self-awareness.
What happens to your brain when you “flip your lid”?
The emotional brain takes over, and it’s harder to think clearly or make good choices. (Based on the brain hand model by Dr. Dan Siegel.)
Why is it important to understand different perspectives?
It helps us be kind, avoid conflict, and work well with others.
Role-play: Two friends are arguing over a group project. How do you help them resolve it?
Help them take turns speaking, find common ground, suggest compromise.
What are the steps to solving a tough problem?
1. Identify the problem, 2. Think of options, 3. Weigh pros and cons, 4. Choose and try, 5. Reflect on outcome.