Innovative SEL Lesson: The Balloon and Skewer Activity for Regulating Emotions

Have you ever had a disagreement with a friend and felt like your emotions were blowing up like a balloon? It can be tough to stay calm and find a solution when we’re feeling strong emotions like anger or frustration. But there’s a fun and educational way to practice managing our emotions and solving problems with friends: the balloon skewer demonstration!

In this demonstration, you’ll need a balloon and a skewer. First, inflate the balloon and then hold it by the bottom and top, where the rubber is thickest. Next, slowly and firmly push the skewer into the balloon. If you do it correctly, the balloon will slowly deflate without popping!

So what does this demonstration have to do with solving problems with friends? The air inside the balloon represents the strong emotions that we might feel when we have a disagreement or problem with a friend. Just like the skewer needs to be inserted slowly and carefully in order to avoid popping the balloon, it’s important to control our emotions and work through problems with friends slowly and calmly. This way, we can find a solution that works for everyone, rather than letting our emotions “pop” or “blow up” the situation.

Here are a few tips for solving problems with friends:

• Listen to your friends’ perspectives and try to understand their point of view.
• Use “I” statements to express your own feelings and needs, rather than blaming or accusing your friends.
• Be open to compromise and finding a solution that works for everyone.

Practicing these skills can help you stay calm and find solutions when you have a disagreement with a friend. And don’t forget to try the balloon skewer demonstration as a fun and educational way to practice staying calm and finding solutions!