At times, someone may be so angry that they "can't be reasoned with." The COOL response is to "Take A Break" and allow him/her a "calming down" period before trying to "Talk It Over."
- Once you are able to discuss the conflict, if their anger was fair, "accept" responsibility, "apologize" and "make amends.
- Sometimes, "Taking A Break" from a parent, teacher, or other authority figure means letting them say all they need to say before you walk away.
- When someone is angry at you, it does not mean there is anything wrong with you. You are not "bad" just because they are angry.
- COLD and HOT reactions may make the other person even more angry because it seems like you really don't care about them, just about yourself.
- You can BeCool by:
- LOOKING COOL and calming yourself.
- THINKING COOL with positive self-talk and clear decision-making.
- ACTING COOL by choosing to "Take A Break" and "Talk It Over"
Independent Viewing of Video
Encourage students to view the video independently. You may also suggest that the students take the video home to teach their families the BeCool strategy. Have students practice the calming techniques along with the characters in the video.
Parent Education/Involvement
Consider showing the "BeCool Teacher/Parent Introduction" video and discussing the BeCool strategy at parent meetings, open houses, PTA meetings, etc.
Return to: Lesson 2: Independent Activities