I currently teach 5th grade in an ICT setting,
with students who struggle with big emotions. The last two years we have incorporated
a program called “Move This World” into our curriculum and with consistency I have
noticed a change in some of my students who struggle with their emotions. It is
very important that students are introduce to and have the vocabulary to
vocally express how they are feeling, if the would like to. Everyday after our recess
time we talk 5-8 minutes to write down how we are feeling at that moment, why
we feel that way and reflect on anything that may be bothering us. These
thoughts are kept in a journal that we can review whenever needed. This
activity is then followed up with a video that is either teaching us about a new
coping skill, a partner activity, or a breathing activity to get us to really
think about our emotions and learn how to express them in an appropriate way.
The program also touches on other aspects of SEL such as managing stress, the importance
of setting goals, and teaching empathy.
