Game Time Club

Week 1: Identifying and Labeling Frustration. Taking Belly Breaths

Our group focused on what frustration feels like in our body so that we can better identify the feeling when it arises.

We also practiced taking belly breaths when this feeling shows up. Belly Breaths start with taking a deep breath in through our nose, watching our belly fill/rise, then breathing out through the mouth like you are blowing out birthday candles. Often people have difficulty when first learning belly breaths, as they breathe in shallowly and make their shoulders lift. A great way to practice filling the belly is to use a stuffed animal. Check out the video to the left to have your child practice belly breathing.

Week 2: Celebrating Respectfully

This week we focused on how to celebrate a win in a respectful manner. We talked about specific ways to celebrate, like "Woohoo" "yes" or "I did it!" that are short and positive. We also talked about paying attention to the other children to see how they are feeling when we celebrate. If people look sad then celebrating less and encourage them may be a kind and helpful choice.

Week 3: Filtering Thoughts when Feeling Impatient

We discussed thoughts that pop up in our heads when waiting our turn and beginning to feel annoyed, frustrated, angry, upset, or other feelings. Sometimes we blurt out these thoughts without a filter. This week we discussed before saying something taking a minute to think about your thoughts before you speak, and use a positive tone when expressing yourself.

Week 4: Side Conversations

Playing games are an amazing way for kids to socialize while balancing competition, attention and focus. We discussed this week how to socialize in a way that compliments and does not interfere with the game's flow. We practiced social skill of asking others to take their turn with respectful tone of voice and content of speech.

Week 5: When and How to Stop a Game

While games can be a great distraction strategy when feeling a big feeling, we may not be ready to play a game or need to stop a game. This week we discussed internal and social signs of when to stop a game, such as the feelings thermometer rising above a 5 out of 10, or thinking or saying unkind words to the other players.

We then discussed the following protocol as helpful when trying to leave a game:

1. take 2 belly breaths

2. tell the person how you feel with an “I statement” (“I feel annoyed right now)

3. tell the person you need to take a break

4. go to a private space to do an activity that makes you feel more pleasant feelings.

Something to try at home is to prompt for this behavior to help your child better understand when it is time to take a break, and positively reinforce when they use this protocol.

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