Pirate's Pause & Choose Game

Ahoy, mateys! It's time to practice being the captain of our own ships! In this game, we'll read about some tricky situations that might make our emotions feel like a stormy sea. Your job is to PAUSE, and then CHOOSE the best self-control treasure (strategy) to calm the waters!

How to Play:

1. The teacher will read a "Stormy Sea Scenario" card.
2. PAUSE! Take a moment to think about how you would feel in that situation.
3. CHOOSE! Decide which self-control strategy you would use: Deep Breaths, Counting to Ten, or Positive Self-Talk.
4. Explain your choice! Why did you pick that strategy? How will it help you?

Stormy Sea Scenario Cards (Cut these out!)

Card 1

Your friend accidentally knocks over your tower of blocks right when you finished it. You feel your face getting hot and want to yell.

Card 2

It's snack time, and someone else got the last cookie you really wanted. You feel a big frown on your face and your tummy feels fluttery.

Card 3

The teacher asked everyone to line up, but two kids pushed in front of you. You feel frustrated and want to push back.

Card 4

You are trying to draw a perfect pirate ship, but your crayon breaks, and your drawing isn't looking how you want it. You feel like giving up and tearing the paper.

Card 5

It's time to clean up, and you really want to keep playing. You feel whiny and don't want to help.

Card 6

Someone calls you a silly name on the playground. You feel hurt and want to call them a name back.