Students at Hayes participated in a SEL activity with the objective to recognize anxiety triggers, utilize breathing techniques, and use healthy self-talk to mitigate anxiety.

Students were assigned block sets that were designed to build an animal, and given just three minutes to put it together. Students quickly became frustrated and stressed with the complex directions and short amount of time.

After discussing how the activity made them feel (anxious and stressed), students were then given three minutes to build anything they wanted. After the time was complete, they felt happier and calmer.

The activity taught the students that when trying to achieve goals, they shouldn't put unnecessary pressure on themselves and try to stay fully present.