Welcome back after the winter break!
This month children in grades 2 and 3 are learning about self-talk, automatic negative thoughts and how to challenge those thoughts. We read a book called, “Captain Snout and the Super Power Questions,” written by Daniel G. Amen.
Self-talk is automatic, temporary and usually not based on the truth. It comes and goes like the wind and sometimes we get stuck in negative thought patterns. There are three types of self-talk: helpful – the kind that cheers us on and motivates us to keep going, unhelpful – this is where our inner critic shows up and the last type is neutral – not helpful nor unhelpful, just observational.
When we think in helpful ways, a chemical is released and we feel good. When our thoughts are unhelpful, a chemical is released in our body and we feel bad.
These are typical thinking traps that we get stuck in.
What can we do to support children with unhelpful self-talk?
- have conversations with your family about your process noticing, naming & challenge unhelpful thoughts by modelling these three steps
STEP 1 Notice It – pay attention to your thoughts
Step 2 Name It – Oh this is an ANT
Step 3 Chase It away – use a Super Power Question
I’m going to wear green on National Child & Youth Mental Health Day to bring awareness to the importance of child and youth mental wellness. Who’s with me?
When we closely focus on tasks in a goal-oriented way, we take on challenges that make deep connections in the brain.
When we are non-focused, without any specific goal, and let our mind wander or simply relax, we help the brain recharge.
In addition to physical health benefits, physical
When we allow ourselves to be spontaneous or creative, playfully enjoying novel experiences, we help make new connections in the brain. Adults also benefit from play as it makes the brain younger, relieves stress, and improves relationships and connections to other.
