Panda Emotions
What emotion does Mei often feel when she turns into the red panda?
Strong emotions like embarrassment, excitement, or anger.
Who are Mei’s three best friends?
Miriam, Priya, and Abby.
Mei sometimes hides the truth from her mom. What can happen when people are dishonest?
Loss of trust, misunderstandings, conflict, etc.
What does the red panda symbolize in the movie?
Emotions, identity, growing up, individuality, etc.
What coping skill helps slow your body down when upset?
Deep breathing,any appropriate coping skill shared by group
Name one physical sign that shows someone may be feeling stressed.
Sweating, shaking, crying, fast heartbeat, tense muscles, etc.
What is one quality of a healthy friendship?
Trust, honesty, support, kindness, communication, etc.
What is a consequence of making impulsive decisions?
Trouble, regret, hurting others, bad outcomes, etc.
What are some healthy ways people express themselves?
Art, music, fashion, sports, writing, hobbies, etc.
Name one trusted adult students can talk to during stressful times.
Parent, counselor, teacher, coach, guardian, etc.
True or False: Ignoring emotions always makes them go away.
False
Mei’s friends support her when she becomes a panda. Why is support important in friendships?
It helps people feel accepted, safe, and understood.
Why is it important to think before reacting when upset?
So we can make safer and healthier choices.
Why is it important to accept the parts of ourselves that feel different?
Differences make us unique and build confidence.
Why is taking a break helpful during conflict?
It helps calm emotions and think clearly.
Mei learns that emotions are not “bad.” Why is it important to express feelings in healthy ways?
Because emotions help us understand ourselves and communicate our needs.
What should you do if a friend is struggling emotionally?
Listen, support them, encourage trusted adult help, be kind, etc.
Mei has to balance family expectations and personal choices. Why can this feel difficult for teens?
Teens are learning independence and identity.
Mei struggles between being who others want her to be and being herself. What lesson does this teach?
It’s important to balance expectations while staying true to yourself.
What does self-care mean?
Taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical health.
Give one example of a healthy way to calm down during big emotions.
Deep breathing, talking to someone, journaling, music, taking a break, exercise, etc.
Describe a time in the movie when friendship helped solve a problem.
Various acceptable answers involving the concert, supporting Mei, helping her accept herself, etc.
Give an example of a positive choice Mei made by the end of the movie.
Accepting herself, communicating honestly, balancing family and individuality, etc.
Share one strength or “inner panda” quality that can actually be a positive trait.
Passion, energy, creativity, humor, confidence, etc.
Create a coping strategy plan using 3 healthy coping skills.
Answers vary.