Over the last few weeks, HeadStart have been working with a small group of boys in school who are friendly and sociable, but at times they become physical. They push, shove, and use their hands, causing conflict. The group had limited English and some additional needs, meaning it was important to find a strategy that was accessible and clear, making it easy for them to remember. This is where a simple idea became quite powerful.
Calm body = Good Friend
We explored what it means to have a “calm body”, gentle movements, relaxed posture, using repetitive language, demonstrations, and colours. We talked about what makes a good friend and how a calm body helps us play safely, build a more positive friendship and fix problems.
In the final session, the group created masks to reflect on their learning. On the outside, they showed what a good friend looks like. And inside, they explored behaviours that are “not a good friend”.
These sessions supported their understanding and reminded them that a dysregulated body needs support to become calmer, a way to reset. Simple, consistent words with a powerful impact, helping them gain valuable life skills to build positive relationships.
Published: March 23