Forum Reply: Biggest Takeaways from Cognitive Behavioral TheaterThis course has been a game-changer for me as a 4th-grade teacher at Dearborn Elementary and a mom balancing family and work. My biggest takeaways are learning to reframe negative thoughts, communicating with emotional intelligence, and embracing vulnerability through improv. The RRR technique (Record, Rationalize, Replace) helps me challenge self-doubt, like when I think I’m not creative enough for improv lessons. Understanding True Colors—my Blue personality and my husband’s Gold—showed me how to adapt my communication, like using clear plans to connect with him. The mask exercise and Big/Little Ts taught me to unpack fears, like not being truly known, which stem from my Vietnamese refugee past.
Practically, I’m using these daily. In my classroom, I foster trust with I-messages, like, “I’m excited to see your ideas,” to encourage shy students in improv games like “crazy faces.” I actively listen to kids’ emotions, creating an equitable space for my diverse students. At home, I journal to unload stress and plan family time with my son, who’s off to dental school, using structure to honor my husband’s needs. This class has given me tools to teach and live with more empathy, resilience, and balance, helping me support others while staying true to my goals.
