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My Heart's Voice

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Lesson Plan

Listening to My Heart

Guide 1st-grade students in reflecting on their feelings of grief by listening to their inner voice, then expressing these emotions through journal writing and art, building emotional resilience.

This lesson fosters emotional intelligence by helping young learners identify and articulate feelings of grief, supporting both personal growth and classroom emotional wellbeing.

Audience

1st Grade Student

Time

15 minutes

Approach

Through guided reflection, journaling, and art to make abstract feelings tangible.

Materials

Listening to My Heart, Heart's Voice Journal, and Heart Expression Art

Prep

Preparation

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Guided Reflection

5 minutes

  • Begin by explaining the session’s purpose: to listen to what your heart feels during times of sadness or grief.
  • Use gentle, simple language and ask the student to close their eyes for a brief moment to listen to their heart.
  • Ask reflective questions like “What is your heart saying right now?” to guide the reflection.

Step 2

Journal Activity

3 minutes

  • Introduce the Heart's Voice Journal and ask the student to draw or write how they feel.
  • Encourage them to use colors they like, reminding them that there are no wrong answers.
  • Provide supportive and gentle prompts if needed.

Step 3

Art Expression

2 minutes

  • Transition to the Heart Expression Art activity where the student can create art that expresses their inner feelings.
  • Allow open-ended creativity and discuss the colors used to associate them with different emotions.
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Journal

Heart's Voice Journal

This journal is a safe space for you to share what your heart is saying when you feel sad or upset. There are no right or wrong answers – just use this space to listen to your feelings and talk to your heart.

Journal Prompts

  1. What is one thing that made you feel sad recently?





  2. Imagine your heart could speak – what words would it say to you right now?





  3. Draw or write about a color that matches how you feel today. Why did you choose that color?





Remember, your feelings are important and it's okay to share them. Take your time with each prompt and let your heart guide your words and pictures.

Happy reflecting!

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lenny

Activity

Heart Expression Art

This activity invites you to express how your heart feels through art. Use different colors and shapes to paint or draw your emotions. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to show what you’re feeling – let your creativity guide you!


Guidelines:

  • Think about what your heart feels like today. Is it calm, excited, or maybe a bit heavy?


  • Use colors that you feel best show your feelings. For example, you might choose soft colors for gentle feelings or bright colors for excitement.


  • Experiment with shapes. You can create swirls, circles, or any design that feels right to you.


  • There is no rush – take your time, and remember that your art is a personal expression of your inner world.


After you finish, feel free to share the story behind your art if you’d like. Your feelings are important and every creation is unique!


lenny
lenny