INSIDE THE SCENE
The Full Story
DECODING THE SOCIAL WORLD THROUGH MOVIES
Meets Tuesdays & Thursdays | 3:00–5:00 PM
Overview:
Join us for a playful, supportive program where students explore how people connect, communicate, and express emotions—through the magic of movies! Using beloved films like Inside Out, Wonder, and Zootopia, each session invites middle schoolers to reflect on characters’ experiences and build tools for navigating their own social world. Whether a student identifies as neurodivergent or just appreciates a thoughtful pace and creative approach, all are welcome to learn in ways that feel good to them.
🎬 Program Details:
🗓️ When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:00–5:00 PM
🧒 Who: Middle school students (all neurotypes welcome)
🎥 What to Expect: Movie clips, guided discussions, games, art, movement, and reflection
💡 Focus Areas: Emotional awareness, social insight, empathy, and communication
🌈 Environment: Inclusive, affirming, and fun—with room for different ways of thinking and participating
💵 Cost: $150 per week
NOTE:This program is not affiliated with or endorsed by Disney, Pixar, or any film studios. All film references are used for educational purposes only.
Week 1: 6/24 & 6/26
Identifying & Naming Emotions
Inspired by Disney's Inside Out 2
This two-day kickoff to the program helps students build a strong emotional foundation through the colorful, relatable world of Inside Out. On Tuesday, students learn to identify and name emotions using an interactive Emotion Wheel and playful roleplay activities. On Thursday, they explore how emotions can influence choices and relationships, using scenes from the movie to reflect on how feelings like sadness, anger, or joy can shape behavior. With games like Feelings Bingo and movement-based activities, these sessions support emotional awareness, self-reflection, and more thoughtful social interactions in a space that embraces all ways of feeling and expressing.
A brief message for your teen...
Ever feel a bunch of emotions all at once—like Riley in Inside Out? In this week’s sessions, we’ll watch movie scenes, spin a giant Emotion Wheel, and act out feelings to see how they connect to the choices we make. You’ll play games, move around, and get to know your own emotions a little better—all while having fun together!
Week 2: 7/1 & 7/3
Empathy & Kindness
Inspired by Wonder
Over two sessions, students dive into the powerful story of Wonder to explore empathy, kindness, and what it means to accept and support others—especially when someone looks or acts differently. Through thoughtful discussion, personal reflection, and creative projects like a “Stop Bullying” campaign, participants examine the impact of bullying, peer pressure, and small acts of kindness. This week encourages emotional growth, self-confidence, and the courage to stand up for what's right—all within an inclusive and emotionally safe space.
A brief message for your teen...
What would you do if someone at school looked different—or was being treated unfairly? In this session, we’ll watch parts of Wonder, talk about how it feels to be left out or included, and create cool posters to help stop bullying and spread kindness. You’ll learn how to stand up, speak up, and be a great friend.
Week 3: 8/5 & 8/7
Empathy, Identity & Understanding Bias
Inspired by Zootopia
In this two-part lesson, students explore empathy, identity, and social awareness through the engaging world of Zootopia. Using scenes that highlight bias, perseverance, and personal growth, participants reflect on their own experiences and how assumptions impact others. Through guided discussion, empathy mapping, and interactive games, students practice understanding different perspectives and explore how identity can influence how we’re treated—and how we treat others. The sessions create space for honest, age-appropriate conversations in a supportive and inclusive setting.
A brief message for your teen...
Have you ever felt judged just for being you? In this session, we’ll watch clips from Zootopia, talk about what makes each of us unique, and do fun activities to help us see the world through someone else’s eyes. You’ll learn how to spot bias, practice empathy, and celebrate who you are!
Week 4: 8/12 & 8/14
Friendship, Leadership & Community
Inspired by Moana
This week, students explore the power of trust, perseverance, and community through Moana 2. Across two engaging sessions, they reflect on what makes a strong friendship, how to overcome challenges, and what it means to lead with empathy and responsibility. Together, students analyze cultural traditions, the value of teamwork, and the importance of asking for help when needed. Through movie clips, group discussions, and creative hands-on activities—including teamwork challenges and a boat-building LEGO project—participants grow their social and emotional skills in a setting that celebrates identity, connection, and shared growth.
A brief message for your teen...
Moana doesn’t give up—even when the waves are rough! In this week’s sessions, we’ll explore how she and Maui build trust, how Moana becomes a strong leader, and how her culture and community help her succeed. You’ll team up for a puzzle challenge, design your own LEGO boat, and discover what makes you a great friend and teammate!
