Ari’s morning feels heavy.
Ari is 8. He’s in third grade. He’s smart, funny, and imaginative. He usually does well at school.
His backpack is packed. His school clothes are on. He has one shoe on.
Mom says, “We’re going to be late.” Ari says, “I don’t want to go today.”
He has a test today. He’s thinking about a time his teacher corrected him. His friend has been hanging out with another group.
It isn’t one huge thing. Together, the little things make his shoes feel heavy.
Ari can notice the weight and ask for help. You can, too.
Who am I becoming?
Think about the person you want to practice being today.
How heavy are my shoes?
Where does it get heavy?
What kind of weight?
Observe, Name, Next
Rock or Roadblock?
A rock is a hard feeling I can practice moving through. A roadblock is a problem I need help with. I don’t have to fix it alone.
Bullying, unfair treatment, feeling unsafe, not getting what you need, or instructions that don’t make sense are real roadblocks. Tell a trusted grown-up. These are not yours to fix alone.
Magic Shoes Reset
Keep breathing gently. No holding your breath. No counting. If it feels uncomfortable, breathe normally and tell a grown-up.
- Breathe in. Take a comfortable breath in through your nose.
- Long easy out. Let a longer, easy breath out, like fogging a window.
- Drop shoulders. Let your shoulders melt down.
- Loosen jaw. Let your teeth come apart. Soft face.
- Feel your feet. Press your feet into the floor. You’re here.
One Next Step
Try your small step when you can. Asking a grown-up for help counts, too.
Game Film
After your try, come back and tell what happened.
Download Day 1 Worksheet
Printable coming here
You can complete every Day 1 activity right here today.
See printable resourcesBreathe. Think. Take the Next Step. Win.
For learning and practice, not therapy or medical care.