Anger Management
One of the small groups that the school counseling program offers teaches students how to handle their anger appropriately. It teaches students to recognize their "triggers" and ways to calm down when they are angry. Recently I found a fun way to teach some of these skills using a popular game, Angry Birds! Most students have heard of or played angry birds. It can be addictive, even for adults!
It is a game where players use a sling shot to launch birds at pigs stationed on or within various structures, with
the intent of destroying all the pigs on the playing field. The player controls a flock of multi-colored birds that are attempting
to retrieve their eggs, which have been stolen by a group of green pigs. On each level, the pigs are sheltered by structures made of various materials such as wood, ice
and stone, and the objective of the game is to eliminate all the pigs
on the level.
In our first group, we compare our anger to the birds. Each bird's ability can also relate to how we express our anger.
In the picture above you see four of the angry birds from the game. Each bird represents a different way of showing anger.
The angry eyes bird shows anger by facial expressions and body language.
The cutting words bird shows anger by using words that cut at people's feelings.
The throwing objects bird shows anger by releasing tension by throwing or slamming objects.
The body out of control bird (bomb bird) shows anger by exploding, kicking, or hitting!
In our first group we discuss these four birds and talk about different tips on what to do when you feel like an angry bird. We also pick which bird is most like us in how WE respond to anger.
In the next meetings we also compare other parts of the game to controlling or losing control of our anger. Students learn calm down techniques that will help them control their anger. They can use these in the classroom or at home.
Students respond well to the angry birds theme to discuss anger management skills. If you have more questions about this group or are interested in your student being part of an anger management group please contact Mrs. Sinclair. More information about the angry birds anger management lessons can be found here.
