Film doesn’t lie—review it.

When you watch a movie or a show, you’re not just being entertained—you’re getting a small, safe practice ground for real feelings and hard choices. As a coach, I love suggesting that kids treat films like practice sessions. Actors show us what courage, sadness, mistakes, and kindness look like. They do not always act perfectly, and that’s the point: film doesn’t lie. It shows the messy parts, and if you pause and review, you can learn how to act when life gets messy too.

Start small. Pick a short scene that moves you—maybe somebody loses a game, someone apologizes, or a friend gets left out. Watch the scene once just to feel it. Then watch it again and ask simple questions: What did that person want? What did they do that helped? What did they do that made things worse? Notice faces, tone of voice, and body language. If the character did something brave, name it. If they made a mistake, say it out loud: “They tried and it didn’t work.” Saying things helps you make sense of feelings. You’re training your mind to spot choices and consequences, which is a big part of growing up.

Use the scene to practice words you can say in real life. Try pausing and pretending you are a coach for the character: what would you say to help them take the next step? Practice saying it out loud or with a friend. You can even role-play different endings by acting out what might happen if the character chose differently. That way you get to try brave replies, kind questions, or calm ways to cool down. Practicing before real pressure helps you stay calmer when it really matters.

Here are some simple phrases you can use while you review a scene or when you help a friend. They’re short, kind, and powerful: - “I see you tried.” “That looked really hard.” “I felt that too.” “What happened next?” “It’s okay to be upset.” “Let’s try one small step.” “That was brave.” “Can you tell me more?” “I’m with you.” “We can practice together.”

After you learn the phrases, use them in real life. When someone is upset at school, try one. When you feel stuck, practice saying one to yourself: “One small step.” Notice how saying something gentle out loud can change the feeling inside. Keep reviewing films as a regular habit—pick different types of scenes: funny, sad, confusing, or exciting. Each gives you a new tool for understanding people and for managing your own emotions. Remember, you’re not fixing anyone; you’re learning how to notice, name, and try—like a coach giving friendly guidance. Film doesn’t lie, but it does offer practice. Review it, learn from it, and bring those simple, strong phrases into your real life.