Format
1. This program begins with a discussion and activity about how strong emotions are felt in the body.
2. We then briefly discuss what stress is.
3. Students are introduced to the brain/body connection and hormones’ role in feeling emotions throughout the body.
4. The limbic system is described.
5. Students learn the “Hand Model” of the brain to understand the location and roles of the brain stem, amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex.
6. We then discuss what happens when someone experiences a stressful situation and “Flips their Lid.”
7. Students are introduced to the concept of Fight, Flight, or Freeze and watch a video about it.
8. Students learn and practice mindfulness strategies to cope with stressful situations.
9. Students learn that naming emotions can help to understand and cope with strong emotions.
10. Students use a “Feelings Wheel” to name emotions that would be felt during certain scenarios.
11. Discussion about the importance of sharing how you feel and understanding that everyone feels strong emotions.
12. Students learn the definition of empathy.
13. Students learn the definition of neuroplasticity and understand that being more aware of and coping with strong emotions takes time and practice.
Objectives
Upon completion of this program:
1. Students will be able to name the main parts of the brain involved in emotions (amygdala, hippocampus, prefrontal cortex).
2. Students will be able to explain the brain-body connection as it relates to social-emotional health
3. Students will be able to identify and describe personal feelings with an increased emotional vocabulary.
4. Students will be able to describe what is happening to the brain during times of perceived threats/stress.
5. Students will be able to demonstrate strategies for self-regulation.
6. Students will be able to explain that naming and sharing emotions is a way to manage them.
7. Students will be able to demonstrate awareness of other’s emotions.
8. Students will be able to describe the brain’s ability to change as we learn new thing (neuroplasticity).
Standards Alignment
National Standards
National Health Education Standards 1, 2, 4, 5, 7.
Visit www.mcmillenhealth.org for more information or call (888) 240-7268.
State Standards
Please see our website at www.mcmillenhealth.org for the alignment to the Indiana Health and Wellness Standards as well as the US National Health Education Standards.