How Can I Modify The Feelings Check-in Circle Time Activity To Better Support A Preschooler With Selective Mutism, Who Has Difficulty Verbally Expressing Their Emotions, But Is Able To Communicate Through Visual Aids And Gestures?
To modify the feelings check-in circle time activity for a preschooler with selective mutism, consider the following structured approach:
-
Visual Aids: Introduce an emotion chart or poster with facial expressions or emojis representing different emotions. This allows the child to point to their feeling instead of verbalizing it.
-
Gestures: Assign specific gestures to each emotion, such as a thumbs up for happy or a sad face with hands down. This provides a non-verbal method of expression.
-
Group Participation: Transition to a group activity where all children participate simultaneously, reducing spotlight pressure. For example, the teacher could ask, "Let's all show how we're feeling today."
-
Communication Aids: Offer the use of a tablet with emotion icons or an AAC device. The child can tap on their emotion, which the device can verbalize.
-
Safe Environment: Ensure a supportive atmosphere by discussing feelings with the child beforehand and maintaining a consistent routine.
-
Choices: Provide options for participation, such as pointing, gesturing, or drawing, to empower the child.
-
Token System: Use tokens to encourage participation, rewarding all methods of expression equally.
-
Stories and Books: Incorporate emotion-themed stories, followed by group activities where children point to a character's feelings.
-
Teacher Modeling: The teacher should model using visual aids and gestures to normalize these methods.
-
Feeling Buddy: Pair the child with a friend for mutual support during activities.
-
Music and Movement: Use songs about emotions, allowing expression through movement.
-
Follow-Up Activities: Offer small group art or play sessions for further emotional exploration.
By integrating these strategies, the activity becomes more accessible and comfortable, fostering participation and emotional expression for the child with selective mutism.