How to Fix the Stress Mess

Let's face it, we all have stress, but children may manifest it in different ways than adults and it's our job to help them develop strategies that can make life a little easier. By giving them the tools to help themselves we can empower them to become independent and confident.  This class is designed to teach children about stress and how to manage it.  Students will develop a toolbox of personalized calming strategies.. These will become lifelong tools for a healthy happy life. Please note: this is NOT therapy or counseling. We will learn, discuss, self reflect, and practice specific strategies to manage stress

Class 1  What is stress? How does it affect you in your daily life? What is the fight, flight, freeze response?  Why is it important to breathe correctly? 
Strategy # 1  Breathe
Worksheets:  "Breathe" "The Effects of Stress"
Homework:  breathing practice

Class 2 What are your triggers? Many of us are not aware of what causes us stress or even that we ARE stressed. Students will learn to identify their personal triggers and how their body processes their stress/fear/worries. 
Strategy #2  Body Scan, Shoulder Roll, Progressive Relaxation   
Worksheet:  "What Stresses You?", "Body Scan, Shoulder Roll, Progressive Relaxation"  
Homework:  body scan, daily practice

Class 3  Are you kind to yourself? We all have a little voice in our head that says we are not good enough.  We will learn strategies  to stop that negative voice.  
Strategy #3  Pick your Word meditation   
Worksheet:  "Listen to Yourself" "Pick Your Word" 
Homework: Pick Your Word meditation practice

Class 4  What is Distorted Thinking?  Sometimes our brains go into overdrive with negative thoughts and feelings which can make our stress skyrocket. When we notice what's going on, then we can stop the negative downward spiral.  
Strategy #4  Name it and Change It   
Worksheet   "Stress Messes" complete "Listen to Yourself" from class 3    
Homework:  "Any Other Thoughts?"

Class 5  Staying healthy.  Students will discuss ways that healthy habits help keep stress at bay.  
Strategy #5  Find your Healthy Habits   
Worksheet  "What Habits Keep You Healthy"     
Homework: How did you change your behavior?

Class 6  Wrap it up.  Review of our strategies and discussion of what strategies each student will choose as their "go to".  Students will complete the worksheet "What Stresses You" from class 2