Heart Strings Slides Heart Strings
A Journey of Bravery and Connection
Day 1
Always Connected
Did you know?
There is an invisible string made of love that connects you to your grown-ups, no matter where they are!
How does it work?
When you miss them, you can give the string a little tug in your heart, and they feel it too.
What does "Missing" feel like?
In your Body
A tummy ache, feeling heavy, or a fast heartbeat.
In your Mind
Worrying about where they are or when they'll return.
In your Heart
Feeling sad, lonely, or even a little bit angry.
"It's okay to feel these things. It just means your string is stretching!"
Day 2
The Power of "I Can"
1
Catch the "Gluey" Thoughts
Sometimes worry thoughts get stuck in our heads like sticky glue. "I'm not safe" or "They won't come back."
2
Use your Brave Voice
Tell that gluey thought something brave: "I am safe here and my grown-up is coming back."
Let's Try It!
The Worry Thought:
"What if something happens and they can't get me?"
The Brave Talk:
"I have teachers and friends who help me. I am safe."
Your Brave Voice is like an invisible shield for your heart!
Day 3
Finding Your Home Base
The Support Squad
Who are the grown-ups you can talk to right now? Teachers, counselors, or office staff.
The Safe Space
Where is a spot in this building that feels cozy or quiet? The library, a beanbag chair, or a special corner.
Comfort Objects
Do you have something small to hold? A picture, a stone, or a tiny toy that reminds you of home.
Group Discussion
"If you felt lonely right now, what is one thing in this room or building that could help you feel better?"
You've Got Brave Wings!
Your invisible string keeps you connected, your Brave Voice keeps you strong, and your Support Squad is here to help you fly.
Connect
Speak Up
Seek Comfort
Connection Conversation Cards Connection Conversation Cards
Lesson 1: Invisible Connections
Teacher Tip: Cut these cards out and place them face down. Have students take turns picking a card to discuss the "Invisible String" and their feelings about separation.
What color do you imagine your "Invisible String" is today?
When you miss your grown-up, where in your body do you feel it most?
If you gave your string a "tug" right now, what message would you send?
What is one thing you love to do with your grown-up when you are together?
Does your string feel long and stretchy or short and tight right now?
What is something you can do today that makes you feel proud?
Who else has a string connected to your heart?
If your string could talk, what would it say to you when you're at school?
Connection Drawing Prompt My Connection String
"No matter where you go, the string of love follows."
Name:
Date:
Draw you on one side...
and your grown-up on the other.
Then, draw your Invisible String connecting you!
My string looks like...
It makes me feel... Heart Strings Teacher Guide Heart Strings Facilitator Guide
A 3-Day Small Group Intervention for Separation Anxiety
Pacing
3 Sessions
20-30 Minutes each
Goal
Build coping skills for parental separation.
Strategies
Self-talk, Support networks, Comfort objects.
1
Invisible Connections
Key Concept
Introduction of the "Invisible String" concept. Normalizing the feeling of "missing" and validating physical symptoms (tummy aches, etc.).
Materials Used
Slides 1-3
Conversation Cards
Drawing Prompt
2
Brave Voices
Key Concept
Identifying "Gluey Thoughts" (worries) and replacing them with a "Brave Voice" (positive self-talk). Practicing the shield of bravery.
Materials Used
Slides 4-5
Brave Talk Practice Cards
Brave Shield Activity
3
Comfort Circles
Key Concept
Mapping out environmental and interpersonal support. Identifying specific trusted adults, safe spots, and transitional comfort objects.
Materials Used
Slide 6
Support Squad Comfort Map
Slide 7 (Graduation)
Facilitator Tips
Validate Everything: Avoid saying "don't worry." Instead, say "It makes sense that you feel that way because you love them so much."
Consistency: Encourage the student to keep their drawing or comfort map in a specific place (like their folder or cubby).
Brave Talk Practice Cards Brave Talk Practice Cards
Lesson 2: Use Your Brave Voice
Instruction: Read the "Gluey Thought" (the sticky worry) on the left. Then, have the student practice using their "Brave Voice" by saying the sentence on the right. Discuss how the brave voice feels in their heart.
The Gluey Thought
"What if my grown-up forgets to pick me up?"
Your Brave Voice
"My grown-up always keeps their promise. I am safe."
The Gluey Thought
"I'm all alone and nobody can help me."
Your Brave Voice
"I have a Support Squad here. I can ask for a hug or help."
The Gluey Thought
"My heart hurts too much today. I can't stay."
Your Brave Voice
"It's okay to feel sad. I can breathe and be brave."
Create Your Own: Gluey Thought
Create Your Own: Brave Voice
Brave Shield Drawing Activity Shield of Bravery
"Your brave voice is a shield for your heart."
Name:
Date:
Inside your shield, draw things that make you feel strong and safe.
You can draw your brave voice words, your family, or things you love!
One brave sentence I can say today: Support Squad Comfort Map My Comfort Map
"Even when we are apart, I am never alone."
Name:
Date:
My Support Squad
Draw or write the names of 3 grown-ups you can talk to at school.
My Safe Space
Draw a place in school that feels cozy and quiet.
My Comfort Object
Draw a small thing that reminds you of home.
When I am feeling big feelings...
I will go to _______________________________________
and I will talk to _____________________________________.