Brain Boss – What do I do when my feelings takeover? Emotional Control Executive Function Lesson + Student Workbook

Help pupils understand big emotions, emotional regulation and how to choose what happens next with this engaging, practical Brain Boss lesson on Emotional Control.

This is Lesson works as a stand alone lesson or as lesson 9 of the Brain Boss Executive Function series and follows naturally from Self-Monitoring. Pupils move from noticing how they are doing to recognising when an emotion is beginning to take control and learning practical strategies to manage it.

The lesson makes emotional regulation accessible through relatable scenarios, discussion, visual activities and the recurring Brain Boss character.

Pupils explore:
What emotional control actually means
Why emotional control does not mean suppressing feelings
How different people can experience different emotions in the same situation
How emotions act as messengers
Physical warning signs through The Body Alarm
Recognising emotional intensity using The Emotion Thermometer
The difference between an immediate reaction and a considered response
What can amplify emotions, including tiredness, hunger, noise and feeling rushed
Creating a gap between feeling and action using The Pause Button
Practical regulation strategies including movement, breathing, taking space, talking, reframing and problem-solving
Choosing the right strategy for different situations
Knowing when to manage independently and when to ask for help

Pupils also work through realistic scenarios including The Penalty Disaster, before creating their own personalised Brain Boss Emotion Plan.

Core message:

FEEL IT. NOTICE IT. MANAGE IT.

The lesson reinforces the important idea:

Feelings are real. Actions are choices.

Resource includes:
Full visual lesson presentation
Supporting student workbook
Video starter activity
Emotion Thermometer activities
Body warning-sign activities
Reaction vs Response scenarios
Emotional regulation toolkit
Reflection activities
Exit ticket
Brain Boss outline/colouring activities

Designed to be practical, accessible and discussion-rich, with strategies pupils can transfer to lessons, friendships, sport, home and everyday challenges.

Ideal for PSHE, SEND, SEMH, pastoral intervention, executive-function support, tutor time and life-skills provision.