A Teacher’s Approach to Emotion Regulation

Image by Drazen Zigic on Freepik

Recently, a video surfaced featuring a teacher, known as @yourteachingbestie on social media, guiding a student through a process of emotional regulation. The internet’s response has been varied, showcasing the diversity of opinions on the approach. In less than a minute, the teacher wears the hats of a therapist, life coach, cheerleader, and more, showcasing the various responsibilities educators undertake.

How the Teacher Helped

In the video, the teacher addresses a student who is visibly upset. She begins by asking the child about the cause, aiming to understand the root of the problem. Through a series of questions, she guides him towards acknowledging that he cannot control others but can control his own emotions. This method emphasizes personal agency and truth, laying the foundation for emotional regulation.

While some critics argue the teacher didn’t explicitly validate the student’s emotions,  one expert, Scott Roth, PsyD, suggests that validation takes various forms. The teacher maintains a calm and direct tone, staying connected with the student throughout the interaction. Dr. Roth emphasizes the importance of identifying the specific emotion, acknowledging that some children may benefit from hearing explicit validation, such as that of understanding.

Breathing Techniques and Distractions

The teacher introduces the concept of pretzel breaths, a playful breathing technique to help the student calm down. Dr. Roth applauds this approach, highlighting the effectiveness of such techniques in regulating both body and mind.

The video concludes with a light-hearted dance, bringing levity to the situation and providing a transitional activity for the student to return to regular activities. While opinions on sharing such interactions online may differ, the video serves as a valuable resource for educators seeking effective tactics to support their students emotionally.

Teachers as Emotional Nurturers

The role of teachers as mentors and emotional supporters is huge. As per a survey conducted on Verywell Mind, more than 80% of teachers feel responsible for their students’ mental health because of this sense of responsibility. The role of a teacher often extends beyond teaching as they become emotional pillars to the learners.

Reddit // u/lad1993

Whether or not one agrees with the exact methods this teacher used, no one can deny the importance of helping kids learn how to feel their emotions healthily and to calm themselves down. And whether teachers like it or not, they’re the ones who spend the most time with kids and often the ones who can best help.

Heinz Launches New Sauce Flavor Branded ‘Fundamentally Wrong’ Leaving People Divided

Twitter // @myfox8

Heinz recently released a pickle-flavored tomato ketchup that has sparked quite a debate amongst shoppers. While ketchup is a beloved, sacred condiment for many, the introduction of a pickle-infused version has left consumers divided.

Exploring the New Condiment

Heinz describes this innovative creation as a twist on their classic tomato ketchup, boasting a sweet tanginess derived from the addition of pickle flavor. Marketed as a game-changer for burgers, sausages, toasties, and even as an accompaniment to crusty bread and cheese, the condiment aims to elevate traditional flavors with its unconventional blend.

The reveal of this unconventional flavor on UK Food Finds’ Facebook page led to a flurry of reactions. While some were intrigued, others expressed disdain and skepticism. Words like ‘nasty,’ ‘fundamentally wrong,’ and ‘pass’ colored the comment section, highlighting the polarized opinions.

The Curious and the Enthusiasts

However, amidst the skepticism, enthusiasts emerged, embracing the concept as a potential culinary revelation. They praised innovation, deeming it a potential game-changer in the condiment arena.

Reddit // u/Stormin208

Thiago Rapp, Head of Heinz Comms and Brand Build, emphasized Heinz’s commitment to culinary innovation. With a history steeped in pushing flavor boundaries, the fusion of the nation’s favorite flavors—tomato ketchup and tangy pickle—seems a natural progression for the brand. The enthusiasm and confidence in the product’s dill-liciousness remain unwavering.

Anxiously Awaiting Release

Launched recently at Tesco stores, the pickle-flavored ketchup is priced at £3.39 (a little over $4), inviting curious taste buds to explore this unconventional blend. It’s not the first time Heinz has combined flavors, but it’s one of the most controversial.

As opinions clash over the unconventional pairing, time and adventurous taste tests will determine whether this condiment becomes as ubiquitous as regular ketchup, or whether it dies out like so many other failed sauces.