Welcome class! Today we are going to talk about something really important for all of us: thinking before we speak. How many of you have ever said something you immediately regretted? Or wished you could take back? (Pause for hands/discussion) It happens to everyone! Our words have power, and learning to control them can make a huge difference in our lives and relationships. This lesson is about helping you develop 'verbal impulse control' – the ability to pause and think before speaking. This is crucial for improving your social interactions, preventing misunderstandings, and building stronger connections with friends, family, and teachers. Let's dive in and explore how we can all become more mindful communicators.

We've all been there. In the heat of the moment, it's easy for words to just spill out. But what happens then? Sometimes those words can cause hurt, confusion, or make a situation even worse. Take a look at this image. It's a visual reminder that once words are out, you can't really get them back. They hang in the air and have an impact. Today, we're going to learn how to make sure the words we choose have a positive impact.

So, what exactly is 'verbal impulse control'? It's not about never speaking or bottling up your feelings. It's about being in control of when and how you express yourself. It's the superpower that lets you hit the pause button between having a thought and actually saying it out loud. Why is this a superpower? Because it gives you time to choose your words wisely. It gives you time to consider the impact of what you're about to say. This skill is vital for preventing miscommunications, solving conflicts peacefully, and building trust.

Let's explore this idea of the 'lag time' – that small but powerful moment between when you think something and when you say something. Imagine your brain is a factory, and your mouth is the shipping department. Sometimes, the factory just sends things straight to shipping without any quality control! The 'lag time' is like a quick inspection process. It gives you a chance to ask yourself a few questions before the words leave your lips. What kind of questions do you think you should ask yourself during this 'lag time'?

This 'lag time' isn't just about avoiding saying something negative. It's also about making sure you're understood, and that you're communicating effectively. When you use this pause, you can organize your thoughts, consider the other person's perspective, and choose words that will best convey your message. Think about how this 'lag time' can help you during a disagreement with a friend, or when you're explaining a complex idea in class. Can anyone give an example of when they've successfully used, or wished they had used, this 'lag time'?

Here are some practical strategies for developing your verbal impulse control. The STOP technique is a great one: Stop, Take a Breath, Observe your thoughts, and Proceed mindfully. Also, practicing active listening – really hearing what the other person is saying before formulating your response – is a powerful tool. And remember, it's okay to say, 'I need a moment to think about that' instead of blurting out the first thing that comes to mind. We're going to practice some of these strategies in our next activity!

Today, we've learned that our words have immense power, and by practicing verbal impulse control, we can wield that power responsibly. The 'lag time' is your opportunity to pause, reflect, and choose words that build up, rather than tear down. Remember, every conversation is an opportunity to practice mindful communication. Start small, be patient with yourself, and celebrate your progress. Let's make a conscious effort this week to 'Think Before You Speak'! Are there any final thoughts or questions before we wrap up?