Some kids say mean things or lash out physically when they are mad, others sulk or take their anger out on the nearest target without ever recognizing the underlying feeling that is causing their misery. While always keeping in mind that anger is normal, this program helps young students differentiate between healthy and unhealthy expressions of this common emotion.
Say How You Feel: Emma is waiting at the library for her friends who have stood her up, when she meets her neighbor Liana. When Emma says she's not mad because it isn't "nice to get angry," Liana helps her understand why it's important be aware of your feelings and not keep them inside. Timmy's friends make fun of his batting skills during practice. He sulks rather than tell them how angry their comments make him feel. Once he does tell them, they apologize.
Solve the Problem/Resolve the Anger: Megan inadvertently ruins Ashley's Field Day poster and Ashley retaliates by ruining Megan's lunch. Then Megan finds out what Ashley did and confronts her. At the movies Mark and his cousin Rachel are taunted by two boys about being a "couple." Later, Mark is so furious he takes it out on his younger sister. Ashley and Mark see that their ways of dealing with anger not only don't solve their problems, but make things worse. They learn healthier ways of handling their situations.
Turning a Negative Into a Positive: Timmy is mad at himself for not being a good player and wants to quit the team. His coach encourages him to use the energy he's spending on his negative feelings to practice harder and improve his hitting. Roshanda and her friends are angry when they learn their roller blading park is being closed. They turn angry energy into positive action by getting up a petition to save the park.
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