When children are experiencing “big” feelings, they sometimes react in unhealthy ways because their feelings are so overwhelming that they don't know how to cope with what they are experiencing. This is why it is crucial for young people to learn "feeling" words and to understand what they mean. Then, they can express what they are feeling. In our lesson, Understanding Our Feelings, young people share how they feel and take time to hear how their peers feel. Then, they sing a song to expand their vocabulary of "feeling" words. Afterwards, they discuss real-world scenarios and think about how they would feel in each situation. They also learn strategies for managing their feelings in healthy ways. Finally, students make “feeling” pictures to illustrate examples of when they have felt certain emotions.
This lesson pairs well with our Animals Have Feelings Too lesson in which students learn about the feelings that animal companions have and how to understand dog and cat body language. Encouraging students to identify what dogs and cats are feeling provides a valuable opportunity to nurture empathy at a young age by recognizing the feelings in not only people, but in animals as well.
Addressing Controversy in Education
The media and the public are heavily focused — and divided — on what is being taught in schools as of late. There is extensive debate about what topics are being covered, what materials are being used, and what is or is not appropriate to discuss in the classroom. As Humane Educators, many of us teach content that might be viewed as controversial by some parents or guardians. In our article, Responding to Controversial Topics in the Classroom, we aim to support educators in responding to common concerns that parents or guardians may have regarding content or certain approaches to teaching. Even if you don't hear the specific questions noted in the article, hopefully the example responses will support you in addressing similar questions that may arise.
Updated Humane Book List
Have you seen HEART's humane book list recently? We just updated our recommendations, and there are great new titles to review and potentially utilize in your educational programs. Check out our entire collection of suggested books.
Find Great Resources in the Member Center
Trying to start or expand your humane education program? Looking for camp activities? Want a new book idea? Need a new lesson? Search no further. Check out ourNetwork Member Centerandperuse the "Bulletins Archive" to find a wide range of helpful humane education resources. When you visit, you can also access the HEART Network member logo to display on your email signature or website.
Collaborate with Network Members
The HEART Network private group provides an opportunity for you and other Network members to ask questions, start discussions, share resources, collaborate, access additional humane education tools, and more.
Jointhegrouptoday by following thisstep-by-step instruction guideexplaining how to join through Maddie's Pet Forum on the Maddie's Fund website.
Spread the Word!
Let your friends and colleagues know that it is free to join the HEART Network, and that signing up takes less than five minutes on our Network registration page.
