Chapter 8 - Session 3: The Explosions

Summary

Clinicians begin the Explosions! with familiar routines: a Henry Heartbeat activity, reviewing homework and adding data to the Body Map, and a new ritual: checking in with our energy and seeing if we need a snack. New characters related to processes of eating and digesting food are introduced: Victor Vomit, Gaggy Greg, Gordon Gotta Go. Investigations explore activities that may induce gagging. Equipped with garbage cans and paper towels, families are prepared for any result of these disgusting but fun investigations. Body Brainstorms explore questions such as who passes the most gas in the family and what foods produce the smelliest farts. Clinicians introduce a decision-tree in the Body Clues Worksheet that helps family members notice their body sensations, figure out what those sensations may mean (e.g., is Betty the Butterfly telling me I am excited?), and design a corresponding investigation (e.g., what happens to Betty the Butterfly if I take some deep breaths while facing my fears?). Families practice using their Body Clues Worksheet to review the highs and lows of the day or to explore the meaning of an intense moment. Armed with these new investigative tools, families are prepared for any intense situation even if it’s disgusting!