Social Emotional Learning

Exploring Our Feelings + Connections Through the Book Me and You and the Universe by Bernardo Marcolla

Objective

To help kindergarten students understand emotions, build social connections, and explore their sense of self through the themes of the book "Me, You, and the Universe."

Materials

  • Copies of the book "Me, You, and the Universe" (purchase here)

  • Large poster paper or whiteboard

  • Markers

  • Craft supplies (colored paper, crayons, glue, etc.)

  • Emotion cards (happy, sad, excited, angry, etc.)

Activity Duration:

  • 60 minutes

 

Instructions

  1. (Before workshop) create emotion flash cards — including a simple picture and the name of the emotion.

  2. Gather the students in a comfortable circle. Ask simple questions about emotions (i.e. "How do you feel when you're happy?”)

  3. Read Me, You, and the Universe aloud to your students.

  4. Explore Emotions Through Conversation

    • Show the students emotion cards with different facial expressions.

    • Discuss each emotion and ask the students when they might feel that way. For example, "When do you feel happy? What makes you sad?”

    • Have the students take turns selecting an emotion card and sharing a time they felt that way.

  5. Exploring Emotions Through Art

    1. Give each student a piece of colored paper and art supplies.

    2. Ask them to draw themselves in the center of the paper. Encourage them to include facial features that express their current emotion.

    3. Next, have them draw a circle around themselves to represent their "universe." Around their universe, ask them to draw pictures or write words representing things or people that make them feel each emotion (e.g., happy, sad, excited, etc.).

    4. Allow them to share their art with the class, explaining their drawings and choices.

  6. Explore Emotions Through Conversation

    1. Gather the students in a circle again. Ask questions like:

      "What did you learn about your friends' feelings today?

      "How can we help each other when we feel sad or angry?"

      "What are some things that make us all feel happy or excited?"

      2. Thank the students for sharing their emotions and ideas. Remind them that understanding feelings and supporting each other makes our classroom a caring and happy place.

    This activity encourages young learners to explore their emotions, understand the feelings of their peers, and recognize the interconnectedness of their emotions and experiences. It promotes social and emotional development, empathy, and a sense of belonging within the classroom community.