feeling masks 

 Introduction

Come to group time with a mask of a strong expression on your face (e.g., anger, happiness, etc.) Wait for children to ask you about the mask.

 Objective/Purpose

The child will become aware of emotions and feelings.

 Procedure:

1. This lesson can be done in a variety of ways. Children can be given paper plates to use as a mask or paper bags work well too. Even construction paper can be shaped into a mask. Facial expression parts can be provided (e.g., cut out pieces of eyes, noses, mouths, eye brows, ears, etc.), or children can be allowed to cut out facial features from magazines or simply to draw their own. Provide glue, crayons, markers, paint, string, yarn, or other materials.

2.  Ask children if they know what expression you are wearing on your face with the mask. Tell them you chose that feeling because you were feeling exceptionally (sad, happy, mad) today. Accent the expressions by showing how mean the eyes look or how happy the mouth is. Show the positioning of the eyebrows or the expression of the eyes. Allow children to create their own feeling masks based on a feeling they might have.

3. Children can be asked to verbally share to the group their creation and to tell why they chose that expression or tell something that would make them feel that expression.

  Practice & Extended Activities:

Art materials can be left out for children to create more emotional masks on their own. Children can create a drama or dance using their masks or masks can be exchanged in a game-like experience where a child must model a particular expression or to identify a reason a person might feel like the expression of the mask.

Children can draw pictures or write in a journal about their experiences with their emotions and feelings. They should be allowed to practice problem solving in the play areas or to express their knowledge in some sort of art, drama, language, or other expression.

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