This standout activity guide can be used by educators, counsellors, and parents to help primary school-aged children develop the social and emotional skills they need for success in school, in relationships, and in life!
Inspired by the amazing marine life surrounding the Raja Ampat Reef in the western Pacific Ocean, this guide includes five entertaining short stories, written in rhyme and featuring loveable animals as the main characters. The animals include a dugong, a bottlenose dolphin, a blue-ringed octopus, a manta ray, and a hawksbill turtle. Each embodies and brings to life one of these essential life skills: managing stress, using whole-body listening, resolving conflict, expressing empathy, and making friends.
The stories are supplemented by fun, engaging activities that further support skill development and academic growth. The activities allow kids to explore art, movement, science and technology, writing, math, music, colouring, and structured group discussion. The variety of options allows multiple ways for children to enhance their understanding of a skill while also growing academically.
All the activities can be individualised or modified to accommodate different needs, capabilities, and learning styles. In addition, they can be blended into existing academic lesson plans, assigned as homework, or used as stand-alone lessons. Some are specifically designed for collaboration and group work, while others can be done independently. For ease and convenience, every activity includes a list of materials, step-by-step instructions, and supporting documents, such as worksheets, answer keys, and handouts.
A special code inside the guide allows users to display or download a printable, full-colour PDF student version of Under the Sea. All five stories, plus colour photos and illustrations of the animals, trivia questions, and a helpful glossary are included. The code also allows users to display or download additional worksheets, answer keys, and handouts.
Under the Sea, Lessons for Life is the first volume in what will be a two-volume series and is an ideal companion to the popular Basic Social Skills for Youth and Teaching Social Skills to Youth.
"Under the Sea, Lessons for Life utilizes a whimsical, fun, and vibrant way to teach social-emotional skills to children of all ages. Students will fall in love with the free-spirited sea creatures who tell each story. These beautifully crafted stories highlight ways to manage conflict resolution, stress, and friendships, as well as strengthen listening skills and use empathy. The rhyming, rhythmic storytelling patterns are sure to be remembered by our students. The diverse activities that follow each story empower the student to learn through all senses and modalities. Teachers and parents will find the materials are user-friendly, easy to implement, and will enhance learning for all."
- Amy Riccio, LMSW, MS, Master Trainer for Sources of Strength and Trauma Sensitive Schools
"his activity book created by Sara Kinsey and Brian Martin has been carefully crafted with exercises and insightful prompts to help young learners navigate through feelings with resilience. The rhyming nature captures attention and aids in remembering the characters and their stories. From identifying emotions to developing healthy coping mechanisms, every page is filled with tools for emotional well-being as well as integrating academic skills for math, writing, science, art, and more. If you're seeking a guide to aid in understanding emotions, coping with anger and worries, as well as increasing listening and communication skills, look no further than Under the Sea Lessons for Life. Children, teachers, counselors, homeschool parents, and caretakers alike will benefit from the lessons and discussions brought forth through this integrated activity guide."
- Laura Sokolofsky, MEd, NCC, LPC
"Inspire Young Minds with the Wonders of the Ocean! Under the Sea: Lessons for Life Teacher + Counselor Activity Guide by Sara Kinsey is your ultimate solution for engaging and impactful classroom lessons about marine life and environmental stewardship. Are you looking for ways to captivate your students' attention while teaching important life skills and scientific concepts? This comprehensive guide offers: Engaging Activities: A variety of hands-on, curriculum-aligned activities that make learning fun and interactive. Life Lessons: Lessons that foster teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Environmental Awareness: Activities designed to instill a sense of responsibility towards ocean conservation and environmental protection. Unlock the potential of your students with practical and inspiring lessons that go beyond the textbook. With Under the Sea, you will transform your classroom into a dynamic learning environment where students thrive and develop a lifelong passion for our oceans. Dive in and make a splash in your teaching today!"
- Dr. Melisa Marsh, Ph.D., Supervisor of School Counseling, Author, and National Speaker