Gradual Exposure
In the Snake vs Stick story, what was it that first scared the child?
Snake that was actually a stick.
A smoke detector goes off because there's a fire in the kitchen.
Real alarm.
A large dog runs toward you barking with its teeth showing? Fight, Flight, Freeze?
Flight
Give an example of a coping / relaxation skill.
Deep breathing, box breathing, Color ISpy, 5-4-3-2-1 grounding.
Any relaxation skill.
What is my favorite movie?
Stitch
In the Snake vs Stick story, what is the brain trying to do when it mistakes a stick for a snake.
Trying to keep you out of danger (protect you).
The smoke detector goes off because someone burned toast.
False alarm.
A teacher unexpectedly calls your name, and for a second you can't move or answer? Flight, Fight, or Freeze?
Freeze
Demonstrate a coping skill.
Good Job!
What is my favorite animal?
Horses
In Sherman and the Terrible Thing That Happened, what helped Sherman feel less afraid over time?
He started talking to Mrs. Maple.
You hear fireworks and your heart starts racing because they sound like something scary from the past.
False alarm.
Someone suddenly grabs your arm from behind. Flight, Fight, or Freeze?
Fight
Why do we use coping skills?
To help our brain and body calm down.
What do I want to be when I grow up?
Firefighter
What kind of feelings did Sherman have in the beginning of the story?
Angry, nervous, sad, scared, confused.
Explain the difference between a real and false alarm.
A "Real Alarm" means there is real danger.
A "False Alarm" means there is not real danger, but the alarm may have reminded you of something that is a real danger.
Give an example of a situation where your Survival Brain would choose to Freeze.
Ex..
- During a lockdown drill, everyone is told to stay completely still and quiet.
- You walk into a surprise birthday party.
Any example where your body naturally would want to freeze up and not know how to react yet.
Where do I really want to visit?
Disneyland
Why would the brain rather mistake a stick for a snake for a snake than mistake a snake for a stick?
Because reacting to a false alarm is safer than missing a real danger.
Someone suddenly yells "Look out!" as a bike speeds towards you.
Real alarm
Give an example of a situation where your Survival Brain would choose to Flight.
Ex...
- You're hiking and see a bear in the distance.
- You see a dog start to run after you.
Any situation where your body needs too quickly escape the situation and get away.
Top three fears:
- Airplanes
- Bird catching and picking me up
- House catching on fire