Athletics & Wellness Grade 4 45 min

Big Feelings and Changing Moods

Everyone has big feelings that can change quickly, like the weather! This lesson will help you understand your moods and learn healthy ways to handle them as you grow.

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What & Why

As you grow, your body and brain are changing a lot. This can make your feelings feel extra strong or change super fast. One minute you might feel happy and playful, and the next you might feel grumpy or sad.These are sometimes called 'mood swings,' and they are a totally normal part of growing up! Learning to notice and manage these big feelings helps you stay in control and feel your best.
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Example 1 — Feeling Frustrated

Scenario: You're trying to build a complicated tower, but it keeps falling down.Notice the Feeling: Your face feels hot, your hands are tight, and you want to yell. You can name this feeling: 'I am feeling frustrated!'Pause & Breathe: Before you do anything, take three deep 'lion breaths.' Breathe in through your nose, and let out a silent 'ROAR' as you breathe out.Choose a Helpful Action: Instead of knocking the whole thing over, you could ask a family member for help, or take a 5-minute break to draw and come back to it later.
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Example 2 — Feeling Left Out

Scenario: You see a group of friends playing a game at recess that you want to play, too.Notice the Feeling: Your stomach feels fluttery and your heart feels a little heavy. You can name this feeling: 'I am feeling sad and left out.'Think It Through: Is the story in your head 'They don't like me'? Or could it be, 'They just got started and didn't see me yet'? The second thought is more helpful!Choose a Helpful Action: Take a deep breath, walk over with a smile, and say, 'Hey, that looks fun! Is there room for one more?'

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Sample Practice Questions

Beginner
What is a 'mood swing'?
A.When your feelings change quickly from one to another.
B.A type of swing on the playground.
C.A special kind of happy dance.
D.A feeling that stays exactly the same all day long.
Beginner
Which of these is a healthy way to handle a big feeling like anger?
A.Yelling at a friend.
B.Punching a pillow or going for a run.
C.Keeping it all inside and not telling anyone.
D.Breaking one of your toys.
Beginner
You studied hard for a spelling test but still got a bad grade. You feel really disappointed. What is the BEST choice?
A.Rip up the test and hide it from your parents.
B.Tell yourself you're just bad at spelling and give up.
C.Feel sad for a bit, then ask your teacher how you can do better next time.
D.Blame the teacher for making the test too hard.

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