Introduction
The Self-Controller Scanner is a powerful tool for helping students in Special Education manage their emotions and find the strategies that work best for them. By understanding their feelings and identifying their needs, students can choose the most effective approach to regain control of their thoughts and emotions. This blog post will explore how educators can use the Self-Controller Scanner to support their students in finding personalized strategies for managing big emotions.
No-Prep Activity: The Self-Controller Scanner Role Play
This activity requires no preparation or materials from the educator. Begin by having students pair up and choose a scenario where they might experience strong emotions, such as presenting in front of the class or dealing with a conflict. One student will act as the person experiencing the emotion, while the other will act as the Self-Controller Scanner.
The student acting as the Self-Controller Scanner will guide their partner through the following steps:
- Notice how you’re feeling.
- Figure out what you need to feel better.
- Choose a strategy that meets your needs and keeps you in the situation.
After completing the role play, have students switch roles and repeat the activity. Encourage students to discuss their experiences and the strategies they chose to manage their emotions.
Discussion Questions
- What emotions did you experience during the role play? How did the Self-Controller Scanner help you identify those emotions?
- What strategies did you choose to manage your emotions? Why did you choose those strategies?
- How might using the Self-Controller Scanner help you in real-life situations?
- Why is it important to find strategies that work best for you, even if they are different from someone else’s?
- How can educators support students in using the Self-Controller Scanner and finding their own strategies?
Related Skills
In addition to the Self-Controller Scanner, there are other related skills that can help students manage their emotions and navigate social situations. These include:
- Self-awareness: Understanding one’s emotions, strengths, and challenges.
- Self-regulation: Managing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors in different situations.
- Communication: Effectively expressing thoughts and feelings to others.
- Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
- Problem-solving: Finding solutions to social and emotional challenges.
Next Steps
The Self-Controller Scanner is a valuable tool for helping students in Special Education find personalized strategies to manage their emotions. By practicing this skill, students can build self-awareness, self-regulation, and resilience in the face of challenges. To explore more resources and activities related to the Self-Controller Scanner and other social-emotional learning skills, sign up for free sample materials at Everyday Speech.
