Episode 68: Are YOU Afraid of the Moany Monster?
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In this episode, children will:
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discover how to avoid complaining.
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learn how to find the positive aspects of a negative situation.
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be inspired by a real Big Life Kid, Ava, and how she looked at a challenge in a new light.
Discussion Questions
- According to Delilah, sometimes it’s more work to complain about something than it is to see the good in it. Why do you think it takes more work to complain?
- Zara put a positive spin on complaining about chores by pretending she was using a haunted broom. What is something you've complained about recently and how can you use your imagination to make the situation more fun?
- Instead of complaining about how challenging school was, Ava tried to look for the positives. Consider the last time you thought something was too hard - what is one positive thing that came out of it?
Activities
1. Try out the "Find the Positive in any Situation" printable available in our Gratitude and Mindfulness Printable Kit. This template includes a few prompts designed to help children reflect on an experience they would typically complain about and guide them to see the good that came out of it.
2. Play the “Unfortunately-Fortunately” game. Acknowledge the negative experience or emotion while also finding a positive aspect. For instance, you might say, “Unfortunately, we can’t go to school right now. Fortunately, we get to spend more time together as a family, and we can wear our PJ’s!” This helps train the brain to look on the bright side.
3. Take a “Wonder Walk.” Point out flowers, animals, the warm sunshine, bird songs, families laughing together, etc. After the walk, ask your child to draw pictures of some of their most awe-inspiring observations. This will give your child the chance to soak in the joy and beauty around them.
Produced by Alexandra Eidens and Big Life Journal team. Written and directed by Sarah Cyrano. Sound design and original music by Elettra Bargiacchi. Sound mixing by Mattia Marcelli. Characters played by Sean Chiplock and Ryan Bartley. Managed by Laura Maloney.