My Mad Feelings is a bullying-prevention program for young children, from approximately 3-6 years old.
Most anti-bullying programs focus on adolescents, but the origins of bullying can be recognized at a much younger age – when children first go to school or child care, and must begin advocating for themselves in a social setting.
Ideally, children learn to identify the everyday feelings that come from interacting with others, and express their emotions verbally rather than behaviorally. But this ability must be taught.
Without it, children may instead practice self-advocacy by acting out – grabbing, hitting, hurtful talk, etc. – essentially “sharing” their uncomfortable feelings with others. Such behaviors alienate others and result in disciplinary action – creating a downward spiral in self-esteem. By adolescence, these behaviors become habitual and hard to correct.
Through stories and age-appropriate activities, My Mad Feelings provides children with tools to recognize, modulate and communicate their feelings, so they can advocate for themselves while still acknowledging the feelings of others.
My Mad Feelings is available in the following ways:
My Mad Feelings is developed by