Pop Culture
Who sings the song "Shake it Off"?
Taylor Swift
What is the difference between a value and a goal?
A value is something that consistently guides the type of person you want to be, there is no end point (e.g., religion or family relationships - you will never achieve that). A goal is something you work at and have an end point.
Of course, everyone uses self-regulation strategies. It is important to take note of what works for you and what doesn't it is different for everyone.
What does self-advocacy mean?
Name 3 body signals that you feel when you are starting to get frustrated, angry or stressed.
examples - racing heart, sweaty, tingling arms or legs, heavy breathing, cloudy head, red face
What is the name of the first book in the Twilight Series?
Twilight
What is a committed action?
Doing something, engaging in a behaviour, even if it is hard. This behaviour moves you toward you values.
What is something people often say at the end of funny TikTok videos when something surprising happens?
What is “It’s giving…” or “Girl, what?” or “POV” videos?
Role play - Your mom asks you to clean up your dishes, but you are just finishing your homework. How would you advocate for yourself.
Explain the concept of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1, grounding exercises
5 things you see, 4 things you touch, 3, things you hear, 2 things smell, 1 thing you taste
Finish the lyric: "I'm gonna swing from the ....."
Chandelier
What are 4 of your primary values
some values ideas are:
religion
friendships
learning
fun
family relationships
relaxation
Describe the idea of decision fatigue? How can we help this for ourselves.
We all multiple decisions to make daily. Even little ones. How many pieces of toast do I want, what goes on the toast, how do I want to do my hair, what will I wear, where will I sit at lunch. It's exhausting!! This creates a heavy mental load. We can help this by making some permanent decisions... Outfits for each day of the week, choose clothing night before, have breakfast planned the night before. Decision fatigue can be particularly paralyzing in the morning when we are already tired.
At school if I need help what could I do?
Ask a nearby friend, raise hand, ask teacher, look at EA
Explain and demonstrate box breathing
In for 4, hold for 4, out for 4, hold for 4
Name three main characters in the Twilight Series
Bella, Edward, Jacob
What could you do if a thought keeps bothering you and you can’t stop thinking about it?
Notice it, let it be there, and focus on what you’re doing
Explain what a "hook" is
a thought that keeps recurring that is negative or distracting and pulls us away from what is really important (e.g., "Everyone is noticing my EA")
Name 3 benefits of being able to complete tasks and chores more independently?
less arguments with parents, increased trust from family, pride in self, calmer, more time for other things, get to preferred things quicker, earn greater independence
When you feel yourself getting tense what is the first thing you should do?
Pause, consider what is happening, use a calming strategy
How many miles will the Proclaimers walk?
500 miles
Explain the idea of Choice Point.
Multiple moments in every day where have the option to behave in ways that move us toward our values (e.g., going to the gym - health) versus away to escape discomfort (e.g., continue sitting on couch and watching netflix)
What is one way to unhook from a negative thought?
Say “I’m having the thought that…” or imagine the thought floating away
Share 2 tips for advocating effectively
✅ 1️⃣ Know What You Need
Think about what help or support would make things easier for you.
Example: More time to finish chores, help with reading, a break to calm down.
✅ 2️⃣ Use Clear Words
Use short, clear sentences to say what you need.
Example: “Can I have 5 more minutes?”
Example: “I need help with this.”
✅ 3️⃣ Ask at a Good Time
Try to ask calmly, not when you or the other person is very upset.
Take a breath first if you need to.
✅ 4️⃣ Stay Respectful
Use a kind voice and polite words.
Example: “Please” and “Thank you.”
✅ 5️⃣ Practice Saying “I” Statements
Start with “I need…”, “I feel…”, or “I would like…”
Example: “I feel overwhelmed. Can I take a break?”
✅ 6️⃣ Don’t Be Afraid to Repeat
If someone doesn’t understand, say it again or try different words.
✅ 7️⃣ Celebrate When You Speak Up!
Notice when you ask for help in a good way — it’s a big win!
Name three calming strategies you could use in real life such as at school, or home or with friends
take some deep breaths, grounding exercises, take a sip of water, walk to the bathroom, walk to the water fountain, pause and notice what you are thinking