Talking, Listening and body language
You see someone you know but you don't remember their name. What's one polite thing you can say?
“Hi! It’s good to see you again.”
Ask a question without using their name
Introduce yourself and let them say their name
Name one sign someone is listening to you.
Eye contact
Nodding
Asking questions
Not interrupting
Name one emotion people often feel during social situations.
Nervous
Excited
Happy
Overwhelmed
Anxious
Someone cuts in front of you in line. What’s a calm response?
Excuse me, I was next.”
Let it go if it’s not worth stress
Ask for help if needed
Name one thing that can be stressful about the holidays.
Crowds
Noise
Changes in routine
Family expectations
Someone is talking a lot and you want to leave the conversation. What’s a respectful exit?
“It was nice talking to you—I’m going to step away.”
“I have to go take care of something.”
Thank them and excuse yourself
What’s one good follow-up question you can ask in a conversation?
“How did that make you feel?”
“What happened next?”
“Can you tell me more?”
What’s one thing you can do when you feel overwhelmed?
Take deep breaths
Step away
Ask for help
Use a coping skill
You disagree with someone but don’t want an argument. What can you say?
“I see it differently.”
“We can agree to disagree.”
“That’s your opinion.”
What’s one coping skill you can use at a busy holiday gathering?
Take breaks
Sit in a quiet area
Use deep breathing
Stay near a support person
You’re invited somewhere you don’t want to go. What’s a kind way to say no?
“Thank you for inviting me, but I can’t make it.”
“I already have plans.”
Decline without over-explaining
What’s the difference between inside thoughts and outside thoughts?
Inside thoughts are kept to yourself
Outside thoughts are safe and appropriate to say
Not every thought needs to be shared
How can taking a pause help in social situations?
Prevents reacting impulsively
Helps calm emotions
Allows better choices
A group is making a decision and you feel left out. What’s one way to speak up?
“Can I share my idea?”
“I have a suggestion.”
Ask a question to join in
If holiday plans change suddenly, what’s one way to stay flexible?
Focus on what you can control
Use calming thoughts
Ask questions instead of reacting
A friend cancels plans last minute. What’s a calm way to respond?
“Thanks for letting me know.”
“I’m disappointed, but I understand.”
Ask to reschedule if appropriate
Why is tone of voice important when talking to others?
It shows emotion and intention
The same words can sound kind or rude
Tone affects how people receive the message
What’s a healthy way to express anger without hurting others?
Use “I feel” statements
Take a break
Talk to someone calmly
Use physical coping (walk, squeeze ball)
Someone misunderstands what you said. What’s a good repair strategy?
Clarify calmly
Rephrase your words
Apologize if needed
How can you ask for a break when you feel overstimulated?
“I need a few minutes.”
“I’m going to step outside.”
Ask staff/family for help
Someone says something that hurts your feelings. What’s a socially appropriate response?
“That hurt my feelings.”
“I didn’t like that comment.”
Take space and talk later when calm
How can you tell if someone might want to change the topic?
Short answers
Looking away or distracted
Changing the subject themselves
Body language shows discomfort
How can noticing your body signals help prevent a meltdown or shutdown?
Recognizing early signs allows action
You can use coping skills sooner
Prevents escalation
You realize you made a social mistake. What’s the best next step?
A:
Acknowledge it
Apologize briefly
Learn and move forward
What’s one way to take care of yourself after a stressful holiday event?
Rest
Do a preferred activity
Talk about feelings
Stick to routine