Understanding and Expressing Emotions
Overcome Selective Mutism
This lesson aims to help a 2nd-grade student with selective mutism understand and express emotions, focusing on overcoming communication barriers. By using the 'Anxiety Explained - SEL Sketches' video, students will learn about anxiety and its effects. The lesson includes an activity that encourages students to express their feelings through art or role-play, providing a safe space to practice communication. This approach is designed to create a supportive and inclusive environment, helping students build confidence in expressing themselves.
2nd Grader with Selective Mutism
Video: Anxiety Explained - SEL Sketches, Art supplies (paper, crayons, markers), and Role-play props (optional)
- Greet the student warmly and explain the purpose of the lesson: to understand and express feelings.
- Briefly introduce the concept of anxiety and how it can affect communication.
Step 2
Video Viewing
5 mins
- Discuss the video with the student, focusing on the bunny's feelings and reactions.
- Ask questions like: "How did the bunny feel when it was scared?" and "What did the bunny do to stay safe?"
- Encourage the student to share their thoughts, using gestures or drawings if verbal communication is challenging.
Step 4
Activity: Expressing Emotions
10 mins
- Provide art supplies and ask the student to draw a picture of a time they felt worried or scared.
- Alternatively, use role-play props to act out a scenario where the student can express their feelings.
- Encourage the student to describe their drawing or role-play, using words, gestures, or expressions.
- Praise the student for their participation and effort in expressing their feelings.
- Reinforce the idea that it's okay to feel anxious and that expressing those feelings can help.
- Encourage the student to practice expressing their feelings in different ways at home or with friends.
