At Proof Positive, we believe in the power of movies to teach and inspire, especially when it comes to important topics like navigating emotions, social-emotional learning (SEL), and wellbeing skills. In addition to our Inside Out Edition, we have a new Movie Guide on the Side – designed for teachers and families to use alongside any movie. Packed with research-informed activities, our Guide on the Side can make learning about happiness and wellbeing fun and engaging. It can be used for family movie nights and classroom activities. And the best part? It’s a free resource!
Why Use the Guide on the Side?
Our Guide on the Side helps make learning about emotions and wellbeing accessible and enjoyable. By connecting with the characters and stories, we can better understand our own emotions and learn how to develop essential wellbeing skills. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s inside:
Positive Emotions Scavenger Hunt
Be on the lookout for the 10 positive emotions displayed by the characters. Use our worksheet to track and explore these emotions which can help you learn to recognize and appreciate positivity in your own life.
Character Strengths Web
Create a strengths web by identifying and appreciating a character’s strengths in key scenes. This activity encourages self-reflection and recognition of personal strengths.
Gratitude Scenes
Focusing on what went well can help us find a balance in what we focus on day-to-day. You’ll pick scenes from the movie where a character expresses gratitude, fostering thankfulness and positive reflection.
Wellbeing Scenes
Explore wellbeing by analyzing characters’ experiences across the PERMA+ framework (Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Mattering, Accomplishment, and +Health). This activity helps you understand and reflect on your own wellbeing.
Gratitude Letter Writing
Inspired by poignant moments in the movie, this activity encourages you to write a gratitude letter to a movie, show, book, or character you’re thankful for. Writing gratitude letters can enhance your connection with others who have positively impacted your life.
Summer Movie Suggestions for Wellbeing
As you dive into our Guide on the Side, here are some family-friendly movies from Disney and beyond that can foster discussion and are perfect for summer viewing:
- Moana – Follow Moana on her quest to restore the heart of Te Fiti, showcasing themes of courage, identity, and perseverance.
- Coco – Explore the importance of family, memory, and following your passions with Miguel’s adventure in the Land of the Dead.
- Frozen – Experience the power of sisterhood, self-acceptance, and emotional resilience with Elsa and Anna.
- Zootopia – Dive into a world where diversity and perseverance are celebrated and where Judy Hopps proves that anyone can be anything.
- The Incredibles – Witness the dynamics of a superhero family balancing personal strengths and teamwork.
Download the guide and start exploring today!!
Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or part of the autism community, our Guide on the Side offers valuable tools to enhance wellbeing and emotional understanding. So grab your popcorn, gather your family or students, and make this summer a season of learning, connection, and fun!
