The Talking About My Feelings Social Story by Fun and Function is a gentle, supportive guide designed to help children recognise and express their emotions with trusted adults. This social story uses simple language and engaging visuals to empower children, teaching them that talking about feelings is a strength.
Key Points:
Introduction to Emotions:
- The story opens with a child-friendly introduction, helping children understand that having strong feelings is natural. Positive feelings like excitement or happiness are celebrated, while “yucky” feelings such as sadness or confusion are normalised.
Effects of Strong Emotions:
- It explains that strong feelings can sometimes make it hard to focus, get along with others, or even sleep. This helps children realise that emotions can impact behaviour, encouraging self-awareness.
Preparing to Talk About Feelings:
- Before discussing their emotions, children are guided to make themselves comfortable by sitting in a cosy place and taking a sip of water. This step encourages relaxation and readiness to share.
Using Visuals for Expression:
- The story suggests using pictures to express and identify feelings, which can help children communicate emotions that may be hard to put into words.
The Importance of Being Honest:
- Children are reassured that all emotions are okay, and they’re encouraged to be honest about their feelings. This builds confidence in sharing emotions without fear of judgment.
Coping Techniques During Conversations:
- If children feel uncomfortable, they are advised to hold or squeeze an object to calm themselves. This sensory strategy helps manage jitters during emotional discussions.
Empowerment Through Communication:
- The story concludes by reinforcing that talking about feelings makes children stronger, framing emotional expression as a “superpower.”
The Talking About My Feelings Social Story is ideal for parents, teachers, and therapists to support children’s emotional growth. It fosters self-expression, emotional resilience, and trust, making it easier for children to manage and communicate their feelings.
