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Compassion and Inclusion: Social Awareness

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Compassion and Inclusion: Social Awareness

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Objective:
Students will examine how awareness of others’ feelings promotes inclusion and a supportive community.

Intro:
Sometimes people feel left out or alone. Social awareness helps us notice those feelings and take action. Today’s lesson focuses on how compassion and inclusion can change lives.

Model / Think Aloud:
When I see someone sitting alone, I feel empathy. Choosing to reach out helps them feel included and helps me feel connected.

Discussion Questions:

How does inclusion make people feel?

What are signs someone might feel lonely?

How can small actions make a big difference?

How would the world change if everyone showed compassion?

Partner Share:
Students share one way they can help someone feel included.

Conclusion:
Compassion creates welcoming communities. When we notice others and include them, we help build a safer and kinder world.

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Compliments of Ethan: An Illinois boy serves up kindness

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Values and Identity Formation: Self Awareness

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Values and Identity Formation: Self Awareness

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Objective:
Students will reflect on personal values and examine how those values influence identity, choices, and behavior.

Intro:
As we grow, we begin to think more deeply about who we are and what matters most to us. These beliefs are called values, and they guide our decisions, relationships, and goals. Understanding your values helps you develop a strong sense of identity. Today we will explore how knowing what you stand for can help you make choices that align with who you want to be.

Model / Think Aloud:
One value that matters to me is honesty. When I act in a way that does not align with that value, I feel uncomfortable inside. That feeling reminds me to make choices that reflect who I want to be.

Discussion Questions:

What is a value that is important to you?

How do values influence daily decisions?

How can values help when facing peer pressure?

What happens when actions do not match values?

Partner Share:
Students share one value that guides their decisions and how it shows up in their life.

Conclusion:
Knowing your values helps you understand yourself and build integrity. When your actions align with what matters most, you gain confidence and direction. Take time to reflect on your values as you continue to grow.

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Wellbeing For Children: Identity And Values

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Social Awareness: Community Support - Raising Men & Women Lawn Care

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Social Awareness: Community Support - Raising Men & Women Lawn Care

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Note to teachers: If you and your students want to learn more about Raising Men & Women Lawn Care you can visit their website here.

Intro: When we practice social awareness we demonstrate a capacity to serve and support the people in our community. In today's video we will see that kind of support in action through the work of a group called Raising Men & Women Lawn Care. This group offers free landscaping service to those in their community who have challenges in maintaining their homes...offering us a glimpse of a great example of social awareness in practice. take a look at the video and we'll come back to talk about what you observed then we'll brainstorm some ideas as to how you can support your community over the summer months.

Model: Share your thoughts on the service provided by Raising Men and Women Lawn Care. What are some ways in which you will practice social awareness over the summer months?

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on the service provided by Raising Men and Women Lawn Care.

If you were to start an organization that provides service and support to the people in your community what support would you provide?

What are some ways in which you will practice social awareness over the summer months?

Closing: You'll have a bit more free time over the summer months, think about using some of that time to give back to the people in your community. In doing so, you'll be able to sharpen those much needed social awareness skills.

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Raising Men & Women Lawn Care Service : How We Got Started.

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Note to teachers: Just a quick heads up: Today's video is found on the MadeMeSmile subreddit so the format will be a bit different. Make sure you get the volume turned all the way up on the sites media player to hear what the teacher in the video is saying to his students.

Intro: Our lives our enhanced by the relationships that form and nurture in our daily interactions. Throughout this school year, this class has connected as a group. That connection hasn't always been smooth and free of challenges, which is normal:) But we have learned together. We have grown together, and we've shared a lot of experiences over the past 9 months. And that's what I want to talk about today, our shared experience. What is your favorite experience that we've shared as a group in the past year? To get a little motivation, let's take a look at a middle school band that is about to hear the results from a county-wide competition that they competed in. There's no doubt that these kids will remember this event as a "favorite experience" of the school year.

Model: Share your favorite experience that you had with your class in the past school year? What made this experience special/memorable?

Questions for students:

Share your favorite experience that you had with your classmates in the past school year? What made this experience special/memorable?

How have the relationships that you formed as a group added to your experience as a student at (insert school name here).

Closing: We work hard to learn and grow as individuals, but that work is enhanced by the support and connection that we give to, and receive from our classmates. Continue to nurture and grow those healthy relationships as we enter the summer months:)

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From the MadeMeSmile community on Reddit: I know that teacher went home and cried tears of joy!!

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Explore this post and more from the MadeMeSmile community

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Responsible Decision Making: The Best Decision I've Ever Made 

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Responsible Decision Making: The Best Decision I've Ever Made 

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Intro: The practice of Responsible Decision Making revolves around our ability to make choices that put us (and the people around us) in a position to live happy and healthy lives. Today we are going to reflect on the decisions that we've made over the past school. How have you learned from decisions or choices that ended up being a mistake? And how we have benefited from decisions and choices that put us in a better/stronger position. Take a look at a video where we will meet a young man named Keanu. Keanu made some poor decisions in high school that were leading him in a wrong direction. he learned from those decisions, refocused, and is now making choices that are putting him on the path to having a sold career plan. As you listen to Keanu, think about your own decision making practice and we'll come back to discuss as a group in a moment.

Model: Share a choice that you made in the past school year that upon reflection may have been a poor choice. What did you learn from that experience? What is the best choice/decision that you made in the past school year? how did that choice positively impact your life?

Questions for students:

Share a choice that you made in the past school year that upon reflection may have been a poor choice. What did you learn from that experience?

What is the best choice/decision that you made in the past school year? how did that choice positively impact your life?

Closing: We don't always make the right decisions...but when we learn and grow in our decision making practice we can get to a point where the vast majority of the decisions that we make put us in a position to be happier and more successful. Continue reflecting on and sharpening your decision making skills over the summer months and work to put yourself in the position to make healthy and constructive choices.

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“The best decision I ever made” – Keanu’s Story

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Self-Management: Year-End Reflection & Box Breathing

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Self-Management: Year-End Reflection & Box Breathing

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Intro: As we wind down the school year let's take a moment to reflect on our self-management practice. Self-management is all about learning how to stay in control of your thoughts, feelings, and actions, even when things get tough. Self-management can help us in handling a variety of emotions, challenges, and even stressful situations in smart and healthy ways. How did you practice self-management throughout the course of the school year? Think about that question as we perform a self-management practice together. Find some peace, calm, and clarity in today's three-minute box-breathing exercise. Following the video we'll come back to talk about how we've utilized self-management this year.

Model: What has been your go-to self-management practice this year? How has that practice impacted your ability to manage your emotions and/or a challenging situation?

Questions for students:

What is your go-to self-management practice? What is it about this practice that you connect with?

Looking back on the school-year, what challenging emotion or situation did you overcome through the practice of self-management?

How can you continue to sharpen your self-management skills over summer vacation?

Closing: Self-management can help you to grow into a strong, focused, and confident person. It's not about being perfect—it’s about learning to handle life in a way that helps you feel good and do your best. As you enter summer vacation continue to nurture and grow your self-management practice while you enjoy a little time off:)

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Note to teachers: This cycle of lessons will be the final batch for the 24'-25" school year. As you go through each lesson, work to encourage your students to continue reflection and practice in the social and space throughout the summer. Thanks for all that you do and we will see you next year!

Intro: Today we’re going to talk about something we all experience—feelings! Sometimes we feel happy, excited, or proud. Other times, we might feel sad, nervous, or frustrated. All of these emotions are normal and important.

Learning to notice and name your feelings is a powerful skill. It helps you understand what’s going on inside and how to make good choices, ask for help, or simply take care of yourself. Before we talk more about emotions, let’s watch a video together that explains what feelings are and how to feel them in a healthy way. Take a look.

Model: What is a lesson that you took away from the video? How can you incorporate that lesson in your self-awareness practice?

Questions for students:

What are feelings, and why do we have them?

What are some signs that tell you what you're feeling (like body clues or thoughts)?

The video shared that it’s okay to feel any feeling. Why is that important to remember?

What do you usually do when you feel something like nervousness, anger, or excitement?

How does naming your feeling help you deal with your emotions?

Closing: Feelings are like messages—they tell us what’s happening inside. When we name our feelings, it’s like turning on a light in a dark room—we can see clearly and know what to do next. Self-awareness means knowing what you're feeling and why. When you do this, you’re better at handling your emotions, solving problems, and being a good friend.

Say it with me:

“Feelings aren’t right or wrong. They just are. And I can learn from them.”

Let's make sure to continue to learn from, and grow through our feelings both today and over the upcoming summer vacation.

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AboutKidsHealth - The Hospital for Sick Children

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How to Feel Feelings | AboutKidsHealth at The Hospital for Sick Children

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Relationship Skills – Practicing Gratitude 

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Relationship Skills – Practicing Gratitude 

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Intro:
Gratitude isn’t just a polite thing—it’s a mindset. When we practice gratitude regularly, we become more resilient, build stronger connections, and feel more confident. In today’s video, we’ll explore the science and the power of being thankful. It might just change how you see your friendships and daily life.

Model:
Let’s say one student writes in a gratitude journal every night and starts thanking their classmates and family. Over time, they feel more connected and positive.
Another student focuses only on what’s going wrong—and starts to feel isolated.

Gratitude helps us focus on what’s working and strengthen our relationships with others.

Discussion Questions:

What’s something simple you’re grateful for right now?

How does gratitude help you maintain strong relationships with friends or family?

Can you think of a time when someone’s gratitude surprised or motivated you?

How could you practice gratitude in your daily routine?

Conclusion:
Gratitude is a relationship-builder and a mindset that strengthens us from the inside out. When we take time to appreciate others, we become better leaders, friends, and problem-solvers. Gratitude doesn’t cost anything—but it can mean everything.

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Intro:
Think about your closest friends. What would you do to support them in reaching their goals? Today, we’re going to watch a powerful story called The Pact. It’s about three friends who made a promise to help each other succeed—and how their friendship helped them overcome big challenges.

Model:
Let’s compare two groups of friends:

One group cheers each other on, helps with schoolwork, and reminds each other to stay focused.

Another group doesn’t support each other and sometimes makes fun of their dreams.

Who is building stronger friendships? Social awareness means understanding what our friends need—and showing up for them.

Discussion Questions:

How did the friends in The Pact support one another?

What does it mean to make a promise and keep it?

Can you think of a time when someone helped you in a hard moment?

What’s one way you can show up for a friend this week?

Conclusion:
Being socially aware means noticing how others feel and taking action to support them. True friends stand by each other and help each other grow. As you finish this year, think about how you can be the kind of friend who makes a positive difference.

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The Pact: A Life-Saving Promise of Friendship

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Responsible Decision-Making – SMART Goals (Grades 6–8)

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Responsible Decision-Making – SMART Goals (Grades 6–8)

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Intro:
We all have dreams—but how do we turn those dreams into reality? That’s where SMART goals come in. SMART goals help us break big goals into small, clear steps. Today’s video will teach us how to set a goal that’s Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Model:
Let’s say a student wants to get better at math. A vague goal might be “Do better.”
A SMART goal could be: “Complete 3 extra math problems each day to raise my quiz average by 10% in the next month.”

Which one gives a clearer plan for success?

Discussion Questions:

What’s one goal you have for yourself right now?

Can you turn it into a SMART goal?

What makes a goal realistic and measurable?

What might get in your way—and how can you plan ahead?

Conclusion:
Writing SMART goals helps us make decisions with focus, clarity, and purpose. Responsible leaders don’t just hope for success—they plan for it. Let’s take one goal and start making it SMART today.

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Self-Management – Perseverance & Potential (6th–8th)

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Self-Management – Perseverance & Potential (6th–8th)

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Self-Management – Perseverance & Potential (6th–8th)

Disclaimer: Please note that the video “How a ‘Hi Level’ Mindset Helps You Realize Your Potential” by Cordae contains references to mature topics, including adversity and real-life challenges that may not be suitable for all middle school audiences. It is recommended that you preview the video in full to determine its appropriateness for your specific group of students. You may choose to pause or skip sections as needed, and follow up with a guided discussion to ensure students process the content in a safe and respectful environment.

Intro:
Middle school brings new challenges—tests, friendships, goals, and even setbacks. But what if your mindset could change everything? In today’s TED Talk, we’ll hear from the artist Cordae, who shares how having a “Hi Level” mindset helped him reach success. Let’s think about how his message can inspire us to finish the year strong.

Model:
Cordae talks about pushing past doubt and working hard to become who he wanted to be.
Ask students:

What does perseverance mean to you?

How can we stay motivated even when things get tough?

Give a relatable example (e.g., preparing for a big project or pushing through end-of-year exams).

Discussion Questions:

What does a “Hi Level” mindset mean to you after hearing Cordae?

What goals have you worked hard to achieve this year?

How do you stay focused and disciplined when you feel like giving up?

What are 2 things you want to finish strong this school year?

Conclusion:
Your potential is unlocked when you stay focused and don’t let obstacles stop you. As we finish the year, let’s choose to have a “Hi Level” mindset—one that believes in growth, perseverance, and purpose

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How a "Hi Level" Mindset Helps You Realize Your Potential | Cordae | TED

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Intro:
Welcome back, everyone. As we near the end of the year, it’s the perfect time to reflect. Think about who you were when the year started—and who you are now. How have you grown academically, socially, or emotionally? We’re going to watch a short video that asks us three powerful questions about our growth. Let’s see what they are.

Model:
Let’s go through the 3 questions from the video:

1. What are you proud of?
– Maybe you stayed focused in class, joined a new club, or improved your reading level.

2. What was hard, and how did you get through it?
– Did you struggle with math but ask for help? That’s growth.

3. What are you excited to keep working on?
– Setting a new goal keeps your growth going.

Discussion Questions:

What’s one thing you’re proud of from this year?

What was something difficult that you overcame?

How do you feel different now compared to the beginning of the year?

What goal do you have for next year?

Conclusion:
Growth isn’t just about grades—it’s about who you’re becoming. You’ve learned, stretched, and overcome challenges. Keep using what you’ve learned to finish strong—and remember, growth continues even after the school year ends.

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Ja Morant: Taking Responsibility and Reflecting on Personal Growth

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Intro: When we practice social awareness we work to demonstrate empathy and compassion to the people we come in contact with. We also work to show concern for the feelings of others. In todays video we will meet an amazing woman who excels at showing empathy, compassion, and concern for the feelings of a special group of kids. The woman's name is Amy Jandrisevits. I was very moved when first introduced to her story, I hope you feel the same way. Take a look.

Model: Share your thoughts on Amy's story and her ability to positively impact the lives of the kids that she serves.

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on Amy's story and her ability to positively impact the lives of the kids that she serves.

Why is it important for the kids in the video to be able to have a doll that looks like they do?

What can we learn from Amy? How can we incorporate those lessons into our social awareness practice?

Closing: You may not be able to create amazing dolls for deserving kids...yet:) But you can show empathy, compassion, and a concern for the feelings of the people you interact with on a daily basis. And if you do that, you're practicing social-awareness:)

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A Doll Like Me by Amy Jandrisevits Makes Every Child Feel Seen

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Relationship Skills: Group Problem Solving

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Relationship Skills: Group Problem Solving

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Note to teachers: We have a group problem solving activity today. Prior to starting the activity, form small groups of 3 to 5 students. When playing the video, feel free to press pause after each riddle to allow students more time for collaboration. Have students/groups write their answers down on a sheet of paper, and track to see how many correct responses they get in the ten riddles.

Intro: A component of a strong relationship skills practice is having the ability to work as a team and practice collaborative problem solving. Group problem-solving is all about listening, sharing, and working together. We are going to give you an opportunity today to sharpen your group problem solving skills. We will work in small groups with the goal of solving the ten riddles shared in todays video. Let's get into our groups then we will start the activity.

Model: Share your observations of the relationship skills that you saw your students demonstrate as they worked through the activity.

Questions for students:

Did you have any struggles or challenges in todays group problem solving activity? How did you navigate those struggles/challenges?

What did you do well in todays activity? Turn taking, listening, sharing ideas? How did these skills help your performance?

Closing: A strong relationship skills practice includes the ability to work together and problem solve with others. Great jog in todays activity:)

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10 FUN Brain Teasers | Riddles for Kids | Classroom Brain Breaks OR Family Fun

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Responsible Decision Making: Goal Setting - SMART Goals

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Responsible Decision Making: Goal Setting - SMART Goals

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Note to teachers: Today's lesson on goal setting includes a worksheet that students can use in setting a SMART goal. You can find the worksheet here. Please print the worksheet out and distribute to students prior to delivering the lesson.

Intro: We all have dreams. So how do we turn those dreams into a reality? That’s where goal setting comes in. Think of goals like your personal GPS — they help you figure out where you’re going and how to get there. In todays lesson, you’ll learn how to set SMART goals — that means goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. We'll break it down in a way that makes sense and even have a worksheet that you can use to help you create your own goals, step by step. By the end, you’ll have a plan you can actually follow. Let's start with a quick video that gives you an overview of SMART goal setting. Following the video, we'll take some time to set SMART goals of our own.

Model: Distribute worksheet, and help students in their SMART goal setting process. Maybe even set a SMART goal for yourself to help guide students through the process.

Questions for students:

Have students share their SMART goals with classmates once worksheets are completed.

Closing: You have the power to do amazing things. Goals help you stay on track and believe in yourself. Set a SMART goal today — and take that first step! Doing so is an example of responsible decision making:)

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Self-Management: Training Your Brain to Cope With Stress

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Self-Management: Training Your Brain to Cope With Stress

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Note to teachers: We are going to switch up the order of the lesson today. We'll start with a quick intro and go right into the video. Following the video, share the coping strategies listed under the "Model" section, then start a discussion with students where they share the coping strategies that work for them.

Intro: We all experience stress from time to time, and we all learn how to manage that stress. Often times, we manage stress through coping strategies. Let's watch a quick video titled "Training Your Brain to Cope With Stress. Following the video, we will share some common coping strategies that can be used to manage stress. From there I want to hear from you. What causes you to feel stress? How do you manage the stress that you experience? Take a look at the video.

Model: Share the common coping strategies listed below with your students:

🧠 1. Name the Feeling

Stress is like a messy backpack—it’s easier to handle when you know what’s in it. Ask yourself:

Am I feeling nervous?

Overwhelmed?

Tired or sad?

Just saying "I'm stressed" out loud or writing it down can help you feel better already.

🏃‍♀️ 2. Move Your Body

Moving helps your brain calm down. Try:

Dancing to your favorite song

Shooting hoops

Going for a walk or bike ride

Jumping jacks during homework breaks

Even 5 minutes makes a difference!

😤 3. Breathe Like a Boss

Try this superpower breath:

Breathe in slowly for 4 seconds

Hold for 4 seconds

Breathe out for 4 seconds

Repeat 3–4 times

It helps your brain chill out and focus.

🛌 4. Rest and Recharge

Stress gets worse when you’re tired. So:

Try for 8–10 hours of sleep

Take breaks from screens

Have some quiet time (books, music, naps, etc.)

🗣️ 5. Talk to Someone

You don’t have to deal with stress alone.

Talk to a parent, teacher, coach, or friend

Write in a journal if talking feels hard

Ask for help when you need it (that’s brave, not weak!)

🎨 6. Do Something You Love

Stress shrinks when fun grows.

Draw, game, bake, play music, build, or read

Even 10 minutes can make your day better

Questions for students:

So what works for you? Share your go-to strategy for managing stress with your classmates.

Closing: It's totally normal to feel stress sometimes. You're learning and growing, and that takes courage. Just take it one step at a time—and don’t forget to be kind to yourself. Do this, and you're well on your way to building a strong self-management practice.

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Self-Awareness: Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset

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Self-Awareness: Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset

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Intro: A component of a strong self-awareness practice includes the ability to embrace a growth mindset. Today's lesson will a growth mindset to a fixed mindset. So let's start by defining these two mindsets:

A growth mindset means believing that you can get better at something if you keep trying, practicing, and learning—even if it's hard at first. It’s about knowing that your brain is like a muscle: the more you use it, the stronger it gets! So instead of saying “I can’t do this,” you say, “I can’t do this yet—but I can learn.”

A fixed mindset is when someone believes that their abilities, like how smart they are or how good they are at something, can't really change. They might think, “I'm just bad at math,” or “I'll never be good at sports,” and believe that no matter how hard they try, they won’t improve. People with a fixed mindset often give up easily or avoid challenges because they’re afraid of failing or looking like they’re not good enough.

Let's continue our investigation of these two mindsets by watching a quick video on the topic. Take a look and we'll come back for a group discussion.

Model: Share an example of a time in your life when embracing a growth mindset positively impacted your ability to improve in an academic, athletic, artistic, or social endeavor.

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on the differences between a growth and fixed mindset. Do you spend more time embracing a growth or a fixed mindset?

Share an example of a time in your life when you had a fixed mindset? How did that mindset impact you?

Share an example of a time in your life when embracing a growth mindset positively impacted your ability to improve in an academic, athletic, artistic, or social endeavor.

Closing: When we embrace a growth mindset we allow ourselves an opportunity to fall short, learn, grow, and improve. Be growth minded when facing new challenges and experiencing new things. When you do this, you're practicing self-awareness.

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Social Awareness – Cultivating Gratitude to Enhance Empathy (Grades 6–8)

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Social Awareness – Cultivating Gratitude to Enhance Empathy (Grades 6–8)

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Objective: Encourage students to understand the role of gratitude in developing empathy and building stronger social connections.​

Introduction:

Hello, everyone! Gratitude isn't just about saying "thanks"—it's about recognizing and appreciating the positive aspects of our lives and the people in them. Today, we'll watch a video that delves into the concept of gratitude and offers practical ways to incorporate it into our daily routines, enhancing our empathy and social awareness.​

Model:

Consider two students:

Student A keeps a gratitude journal, noting things they're thankful for each day, which helps them stay positive and connected to others.

Student B focuses on what's going wrong, often feeling isolated and disconnected.

Which student is likely to have stronger social connections? Practicing gratitude can shift our focus to the positive and improve our relationships.​

Discussion Questions:

How does practicing gratitude influence our perspective on others?​

What are some ways the video suggests we can practice gratitude?​

Can you recall a time when expressing gratitude improved a relationship?​

How can gratitude help us become more empathetic towards others?​

Conclusion:

Gratitude is a powerful tool that enhances our empathy and strengthens our social bonds. By regularly acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of our lives and the people around us, we can foster a more compassionate and connected community.

Let's affirm together: "I can practice gratitude to build empathy and strengthen my relationships."

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Relationship Skills – Embracing Diversity and Building Empathy (Grades 6–8)

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Relationship Skills – Embracing Diversity and Building Empathy (Grades 6–8)

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Objective: Encourage students to value diverse interests and talents, promoting empathy and inclusive relationships.​

Introduction:

Hello, everyone! In our diverse world, people have a wide range of interests and talents. Sometimes, these differences can lead to misunderstandings or judgments. Today, we'll watch a video about someone with a unique ability to mimic bird calls. As we watch, think about how embracing such differences can enrich our relationships and communities.​

Model:

Consider two scenarios:

Student A hears a peer beatboxing in the hallway and says, "That's impressive! How did you learn that?"

Student B hears the same and mutters, "That's annoying," without trying to understand.

Which student is fostering a positive environment? By showing curiosity and respect, we can build stronger connections and appreciate the richness of our diverse community.​

Discussion Questions:

What stood out to you about the individual's talent in the video?​

How did his passion affect his interactions with others?​

Why is it important to be open to interests different from our own?​

How can embracing diversity enhance our school community?​

Conclusion:

Embracing the diverse talents and interests of those around us fosters empathy and strengthens our relationships. By being open-minded and respectful, we contribute to an inclusive and supportive community.

Let's affirm together: "I value diversity and build empathy through understanding others."

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11-year-old boy who can imitate 50 birds wows at school talent show

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Responsible Decision-Making – Making Smart Choices (Grades 6–8)

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Responsible Decision-Making – Making Smart Choices (Grades 6–8)

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Objective: Students will explore how decision fatigue impacts their daily lives and learn strategies to make more effective and responsible choices.​

Introduction:

Hello, everyone! Every day, we make countless decisions—from what to wear to how to respond to a friend's message. But did you know that making too many decisions can actually tire out your brain? This is called decision fatigue, and it can affect the quality of our choices.​

Today, we'll watch a video that explains decision fatigue and offers tips on how to make smarter decisions. Let's learn how to manage our choices to stay focused and make responsible decisions.

Model:

Imagine two students:

Student A plans their day by deciding on their outfit and lunch the night before. During the day, they focus on schoolwork and feel less stressed.

Student B makes all their decisions in the morning, from choosing clothes to packing lunch. By midday, they're overwhelmed and struggle to concentrate.

Which student managed their decisions more effectively? By reducing the number of choices we make at once, we can prevent decision fatigue and make better decisions.​

Discussion Questions:

What is decision fatigue, and how does it affect our daily lives?​

Can you think of a time when making too many decisions made you feel tired or overwhelmed?​

What strategies can help reduce decision fatigue?​

How can planning ahead improve our decision-making abilities?​

Conclusion:

Understanding decision fatigue helps us recognize the importance of planning and prioritizing our choices. By simplifying decisions and creating routines, we can conserve mental energy and make more responsible choices throughout the day.​

Let's affirm together:
"I can make smart choices by planning ahead and managing my decisions wisely!"

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 Self-Management – Exploring Philosophical Perspectives on Anger (Grades 6–8)

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 Self-Management – Exploring Philosophical Perspectives on Anger (Grades 6–8)

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Objective: Encourage students to reflect on different philosophical views of anger and develop personal strategies for managing it.​

Introduction:

Hello, everyone! Anger is a powerful emotion that everyone experiences. But how we understand and manage it can make a big difference in our lives. Today, we'll watch a video that presents five philosophers' perspectives on anger. Let's explore these ideas and think about how they can help us handle our own feelings.​

Model:

Consider two students:

Student A feels angry after receiving a low grade. They reflect on their feelings, identify what triggered the anger, and plan how to improve next time.

Student B feels angry for the same reason but blames others and refuses to study for future tests.

Which student is using self-awareness and self-management to deal with their anger? Recognizing our emotions and taking constructive actions can lead to better outcomes.​

Discussion Questions:

Which philosopher's view on anger resonated with you the most? Why?​

How can understanding the root causes of our anger help us manage it?​

What strategies do you use to calm down when you're angry?​

How can reflecting on our anger lead to personal growth?​

Conclusion:

Anger is a natural emotion, but it's essential to handle it thoughtfully. By exploring different perspectives and understanding our triggers, we can develop strategies to manage our anger effectively.

Let's affirm together: "I can understand my anger and choose to respond in ways that are constructive and respectful."

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Self-Awareness – Understanding Stress and the Mind-Body Connection (Grades 6–8)

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Self-Awareness – Understanding Stress and the Mind-Body Connection (Grades 6–8)

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Objective: Help students identify how stress impacts their body and emotions, and recognize how self-awareness can support healthy stress management.

Intro:
Hey everyone. Stress is a word we hear a lot—especially as we get older and take on more responsibilities. But did you know that stress isn’t just a feeling in your mind? It actually affects your whole body too.

Today’s video breaks down how stress impacts the brain, heart, muscles, and more. Let’s learn how to become more self-aware of stress and what we can do to manage it in a healthy way.

Model:
Imagine two middle school students both juggling school, family responsibilities, and friendships:

Student A feels overwhelmed but recognizes it. They take breaks, talk to a trusted adult, and write in a journal to process their emotions.

Student B ignores their feelings. Over time, they start getting headaches, trouble sleeping, and snapping at friends without knowing why.

Student A practiced self-awareness and made intentional choices. Student B let stress build up without noticing the signs.

Discussion Questions:

What parts of the body are affected by stress, according to the video?

How can we recognize signs of stress in ourselves?

What are some healthy ways you’ve managed stress before?

Why is it important to become self-aware of stress before it becomes overwhelming?

Conclusion:
Self-awareness is about noticing what’s going on inside us—our thoughts, our feelings, and even how our body reacts. When we recognize signs of stress early, we can take action and manage it before it takes a toll. The better we understand ourselves, the better we can take care of our minds and bodies.

Let’s say it together:
“I can listen to my body, recognize stress, and take steps to care for myself.”

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How stress affects your body - Sharon Horesh Bergquist

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Intro: Giving back to your community is one of the most powerful ways to make a positive impact in the world around you. As a young person, you might feel like you don’t have much influence, but small actions can create big changes. Volunteering, helping a neighbor, or getting involved in local projects not only makes a difference in others' lives but also helps you grow as a person. You can learn valuable life skills like leadership, empathy, and teamwork. Plus, when you give back, you strengthen your community, making it a better place for everyone. Whether you’re helping out at a local shelter, organizing a fundraiser, or even just being there for a friend, every little bit counts. Remember, it’s not about how much you give, but the effort and care you put into it that makes all the difference. Let's meet a man who takes community service to a whole new level. Take a look at the video from CBS Sunday morning and we'll come back to chat a bit more on ways in which you can serve your community.

Model: Have you ever been impacted by someone practicing social awareness through community service? Can you share your story with your students?

Questions for students:

Let's talk about John Potter, our community service hero. What did you think about his story?

Have you ever been impacted by someone practicing social awareness through community service? Can you share your story?

Have you ever practiced social awareness through community service? What did you do? What impact did you have? How did it make you feel to impact others in a positive way?

What are some ways in which we can serve our schools community?

Closing: Now, you don't have to go donating organs like John...But serving and giving back to your community is a great way to practice social awareness.

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Intro: Being a good teammate is more than just about winning or being the best—it’s about working together and supporting each other. Whether it’s in sports, group projects, or any activity that involves teamwork, being someone others can count on makes a huge difference. A good teammate listens, communicates clearly, and puts the group’s goals ahead of individual success. When everyone works together, it’s not just about getting things done, but about building trust, respect, and friendships. In the end, being a good teammate makes almost any experience more enjoyable...for everyone. I want to talk to you about the skills that you bring to your role as a teammate/classmate, and I want to reflect on ways in which we've demonstrated good teamwork in our classroom this school. But first, since we are in the midst of March Madness, let's watch a quick video of a bunch of teammates celebrating together. Victories and success are much sweeter when they are shared, one of the best parts of being a good teammate:) Take a look.

Model: Share a moment from this school year when you observed your students being good teammates/classmates. Hype em up a bit:)

Questions for students:

We just watched 3+ minutes of teams celebrating. What's the greatest moment that you celbrated with teammates/classmates? What did you accomplish? how did you feel in that moment.

What skill do you consider to be the most important in a good teammate? How do you practice that skill when working with others?

Closing: Work well with others, communicate, care and support. Just a few of the skills needed to be a good teammate:)

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These March Madness celebrations show pure joy

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Responsible Decision Making: Risky Decisions 

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Responsible Decision Making: Risky Decisions 

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Intro: In today's Responsible Decision Making lesson we are going to talk about "risky decisions". When I say risky decisions what does that make you think of? Most likely something negative...and risky decisions can be negative, but they can also be positive. When we make choices to learn, grow, or try something new, there can be risk involved. Risk of failing, feeling embarrassed, or feeling disappointed. Those are positive risks because the benefits that come from trying and learning new things outweigh the negatives that accompany short-term embarrassment or disappointment. Let's take a look at a video that breaks down positive and negative risk taking. We'll come back to talk about the unhealthy risks that you avoid and the healthy risks that you lean into.

Model: Share a time when you avoided taking a negative risk. Share a time when you leaned into a positive a risk. How did both choices impact your life?

Questions for students:

Let's talk about the video and practice thinking through a risk taking scenario. In the video we learned about the "Risk Index" where we weigh the likelihood of a risk happening vs. the negative/positive impact that can come from taking that risk. Use the risk index to think through the following scenario.

Risk Scenario: You are a 6th grade student who dreams of being a singer one day. You sing at home, and you sing at church, but you've never performed in front of your classmates. You see that your school is having a talent show at the end of the month, and they're looking for singing performances. Do you sign up to perform at the show?

The H.I.P Check - A tool shared in the video that can help in analyzing risk (see below): Is this a tool that you can use in your responsible decision making practice? Why or why not?

How will things change?

Impact Just to me or others too?

Permanent or reversible?

Have you had a time in your life where you chose to not take a risk because there were too many negative impacts or outcomes that could come from taking that risk? Can you share your story

Have you had a time in your life where you chose to take a risk because the positive outcomes and impacts were far greater than the negative? Can you share your story?

Closing: Risk taking is a part of life. Our job is to weigh the positive and negative outcomes associated with risk, so we can make healthy choices that lead to positive outcomes for both ourselves and others.

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Risky Decisions -- They Can Be a Good Thing for Teens to Make

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Intro: Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is a simple self-management technique that can help you relieve stress by relaxing your body, one muscle group at a time. Here's how it works: When you're stressed, your muscles tend to get tense. PMR helps you become more aware of this tension and teaches you how to release it. The process involves tightening and then relaxing different muscle groups in your body, which can calm your mind and reduce stress. PMR is a great tool because you can do it anywhere, anytime, especially when you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or just need to chill out. It’s like giving your body a mini workout to let go of all that tension! Let's give it a shot with a 5-minute PMR video from YouTube. Sit back, relax, and follow along through this guided practice>

Model: Jump straight to questions for students.

Questions for students:

How do you feel about this practice? Did you find it relaxing and/or stress relieving? Share your thoughts on why PMR works or doesn't work for you?

Closing: There are hundreds of self management techniques and practices that we can utilize. Our job is to try out as many as possible so that we can find go-to practices that we can easily access when needed. If PMR is a practice that you enjoyed, don't hesitate to try it again if you find yourself feeling a bit stressed out or overwhelmed.

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Relax in 5 Minutes | 5 Minute Progressive Muscle Relaxation

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Intro: A component of a strong self-awareness practice is have a well-grounded sense of purpose. So what is your purpose? What gets you out of bed and motivates you to work hard? Let's take a look at a quick video where a group of people share what their purpose is. We'll come back and share "Our Purpose" in a class discussion.

Model: Did you connect with any of the purposes shared in the video? If so, can you share which one?

Questions for students:

Did you connect with any of the purposes shared in the video? If so, can you share which one?

What would you identify as your purpose in life? How does having a purpose impact your work ethic and your ability to set and reach goals?

Closing: When we define our purpose we we help ourselves in identifying the path that we want to take in life. That can help us with motivation, developing a strong work ethic, and setting and meeting goals. Know yourself, and know your purpose...do this and you'll be practicing self-awareness.

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Social Awareness – Respecting Differences

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Social Awareness – Respecting Differences

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Intro:

Have you ever met someone who looked, spoke, or thought differently than you?

Today, we’ll talk about why our differences make us stronger and how we can show respect to everyone, even when we don’t agree.

As we watch, ask yourself:

How can I show respect to people who are different from me?

Why is it important to listen and learn from others?

Questions for Students:

1. What does it mean to respect someone’s differences?

2. Why is diversity important in our schools and communities?

3. What can we do to make everyone feel included?

Conclusion:

The world is full of different people, and that’s what makes it amazing.

This week, find a way to celebrate someone’s differences—whether it’s learning about their culture, listening to their ideas, or simply showing kindness.

Let’s say together: “I respect and celebrate what makes everyone unique!”

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Respecting the differences between people | Mariana Chartier | TEDxYouth@BSCR

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Relationship Skills – 8 Things Best Friends Do for Each Other

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Relationship Skills – 8 Things Best Friends Do for Each Other

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Intro:

What makes someone a true friend? Is it how long you’ve known them, or how they treat you?

Friendships are one of the most important relationships in our lives, but not all friendships are equal.

As you watch this video, think about:

What makes a strong friendship?

How can I be a better friend to others?

Questions for Students:

1. What are some qualities of a great friend?

2. How do friends support each other?

3. What can we do if a friendship feels one-sided or unhealthy?

Conclusion:

Being a great friend isn’t just about having fun—it’s about respect, support, and trust.

Let’s take a moment to appreciate our good friends and think about how we can be a better friend to others.

Let’s say together: “I will be the kind of friend I want to have!”

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Responsible Decision-Making – The Impact of Screen Time on Kids’ Brains

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Responsible Decision-Making – The Impact of Screen Time on Kids’ Brains

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Intro:

How much time do you spend on screens each day? Phones, TVs, tablets, and computers are everywhere—but do we really know what they do to our brains?

Today, we’re going to explore how screen time affects us and think about ways to use technology responsibly.

As you watch this video, ask yourself:

How does screen time make me feel?

Am I in control of my screen use, or is it controlling me?

Model:

Imagine two students:
📱 Student A scrolls for hours, gets distracted, and struggles to focus in class.
📵 Student B sets screen time limits and takes breaks to do other activities.

Who do you think feels happier and more in control?

Questions for Students:

1. What surprised you about the impact of screen time?

2. How does too much screen time affect focus, sleep, and emotions?

3. What are some ways we can balance screen use with healthy habits?

Conclusion:

Technology is a great tool, but too much can affect our brain health. The goal isn’t to stop using screens—it’s to use them in a way that helps us, not hurts us.

This week, challenge yourself to track your screen time and try one new habit to create a healthier balance.

Let’s say together: “I use technology wisely to take care of my brain!”

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Ground-breaking look at the impact of screen time on kids' brains

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Self-Management:Why Self-Discipline is so Hard

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Self-Management:Why Self-Discipline is so Hard

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Intro:

Have you ever wanted to finish homework, wake up earlier, or build a good habit, but struggled to stay motivated?

You’re not alone! Self-discipline is hard for everyone—but today, we’ll learn why and how we can get better at it.

As we watch this video, think about:

What stops me from staying disciplined?

What strategies help people stay on track?

Model:

Imagine two students:
📱 Student A wants to study, but they keep checking their phone. They run out of time and feel stressed.
📖 Student B sets a timer for focused work, then rewards themselves with a break. They finish their work and feel accomplished.

What’s the difference? Self-discipline! It’s not about having superpowers—it’s about setting up small habits that make it easier to stay focused.

Questions for Students:

1. What makes self-discipline difficult?

2. What strategies help people stay disciplined?

3. Have you ever built a good habit? How did you stick to it?

Conclusion:

Self-discipline isn’t about being perfect—it’s about training our brain to make better choices.

This week, challenge yourself to pick one habit to improve and use a strategy from today’s lesson to make it easier.

Let’s say together: “I can set myself up for success by making small, smart choices!”

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Self-Awareness – The Importance of Physical Activity for Brain Health

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Self-Awareness – The Importance of Physical Activity for Brain Health

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Intro:

What if I told you that one of the best things you can do to improve your focus, memory, and mood isn’t studying—it’s moving?

Think about your brain like a phone or laptop—it needs power to function properly. When you exercise, it’s like charging your brain with energy, making you more alert and ready to learn.

As we watch this video, think about:

How does movement affect my mood and ability to focus?

What small changes can I make in my day to stay active?

Model:

Imagine two students:
🪑 Student A sits all day without moving much. They feel tired, distracted, and unmotivated.
🏃 Student B takes breaks to move—stretching, walking, or playing a sport. They feel more awake, focused, and in a better mood.

This happens because exercise sends oxygen to the brain, helping us think clearly, stay calm, and manage emotions.

Let’s reflect on our own habits:

How does my body feel when I move more?

What activities make me feel energized and focused?

How can I add more movement into my day?

Questions for Students:

1. What did the video teach us about how movement affects our brain?

2. Have you ever noticed a difference in your mood or focus after being active?

3. What are some simple ways we can add more movement into our daily routine?

4. Why is self-awareness about our physical health just as important as our emotional health?

Conclusion:

Physical activity isn’t just about staying in shape—it’s fuel for our brain. Moving our bodies helps us think better, feel better, and do better in school and life.

As you go through your week, pay attention to how movement affects your focus and mood. Try adding one new way to be active, even if it’s just stretching, taking a walk, or playing outside for a few minutes.

Let’s take charge of our brain health by making movement a priority!

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Exploring the importance of physical activity for brain health in children and youth

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Social Awareness: The Wall in the Middle of the Book

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Social Awareness: The Wall in the Middle of the Book

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Note to teachers: We are pulling a read aloud from our younger students for today's social awareness lesson. "The Wall in the Middle of the Book" succinctly highlights the dangers that come with making assumptions of, and excluding others. Let's let an organic classroom conversation flow in today's lesson. Play the video and have students share their thoughts. What themes did they take away from the book? What experiences have they had with people making assumptions or excluding others! I hope you have a great discussion!

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Vooks - Stories and Read Alouds for Kids

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The Wall in the Middle of the Book | Read Aloud Kids Book | Vooks Narrated Storybooks

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Relationship Skills: How Miscommunication Happens (And How To Avoid It)

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Relationship Skills: How Miscommunication Happens (And How To Avoid It)

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Intro: Solid relationships are often built on a foundation of good communication. Communication skills and relationship skills go hand in hand. Let's take a look at a video that will help us learn more about miscommunication and how to avoid it.

Model: What is something that you view as a key to communication. How do you practice this when interacting with others?

Questions for students:

As we learned in the video, communication is complicated! Because of that complexity miscommunications can often occur. Have you ever experienced a miscommunication? Can you share your story?

What is something that you view as a key to communication. How do you practice this when interacting with others?

We learned of some simple practices to avoid miscommunication in the video. Let's talk about those practices. Active listening, really tuning in to what someone is saying and feeling when they communicate with us is key. How do you practice active listening?

Listen with your eyes, ears, and gut. What does this mean to you? How can you incorporate this tip into your communication skills?

Communication is a two-way street. We don't communicate unless we share information. How do you insure that information flows in two directions when you communicate with others.

Closing: Effective and efficient communication is something that we need to practice. So listen actively, connect with the feelings of the person that you are communicating with, and make sure that you are both receiving and giving information when communicating with others.

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How miscommunication happens (and how to avoid it) - Katherine Hampsten

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Self-Awareness: How to Build Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence

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Self-Awareness: How to Build Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence

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Intro: We all want to feel good about ourselves. Sometimes it can come naturally but often, we have to put some work in to aid in the development of self-esteem and self-confidence. Let's take a look at a video that highlights 10-ways in which you can strengthen your self-esteem and self-confidence. Take a look.

Model: How do you build your self-esteem and self-confidence. Share your practices with your students.

Questions for students:

Positive actions: (Healthy habits, focus on your strengths, develop your character, spend time around positive people, help others). Which of these actions do you engage in? How does it help in your development of self-esteem and self-confidence?

Positive thoughts: (Notice and challenge negative thoughts, use positive affirmations, practice gratitude, be kind to yourself, let go of perfectionism). Which of this practices do you engage in? How does it help in your development of self-esteem and self-confidence?

Closing: Practice these ten healthy actions and thoughts to aid in your development of a high level of self-esteem and self-confidence.

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Self-Esteem For Kids - 10 Ways To Build Self-Esteem & Self-Confidence

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Intro: Often when practicing or reflecting on our responsible decision making practice, we focus on thinking before we say or do something. And that is an important skill. We want to make sure that we think through what we say or do because we don't want to say or do something that could negatively impact ourselves or others. Now, what if I told you that there is such a thing as thinking too much...it's true, and it is something that we call overthinking. When someone over thinks, it can cause that person to feel anxious, unfocused, and indecisive. Overthinking is pretty common, and it's something that can be managed, so don't stress if you feel that you have a tendency to overthink. Let's watch a video that highlights the signs that can accompany overthinking. We'll come back for a quick discussion to follow.

Model: Do you ever overthink? What do you do to get yourself out of a cycle of overthinking?

Questions for students:

Let's talk about the video. What did you learn? Was there anything shared that you connected with?

Have you ever found yourself in a cycle of overthinking? What did that feel like for you?

What are somethings that you do to get your mind to quiet down when you find yourself overthinking?

Closing: Taking time to calm an overthinking mind is an example of responsible decision making. So if you find yourself in a cycle of overthinking, step back, take a deep breath, and find the peace and calm that you deserve.

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Intro: Self-management is defined as " The abilities to manage one's emotions, thoughts and behaviors in different situations to achieve one's goals and aspirations." Let's reflect on the final portion of that definition today...your goals and aspirations. What goals have you achieved so far in this school year? What goals do you still have in front of you? How does your self-management practice impact your ability to set and achieve goals? We will answer those questions in a moment but first, let's take a look at a joyful video that shows the moment a young man achieves a new personal best. Take a look.

Model: Share your thoughts on the video. What goals have you achieved this year? How has self-management helped you to reach those goals?

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on the video. Have you ever experienced a similar level of joy when achieving your personal best? Can you share your story?

What goals have you achieved in this school year?

What goals do you still have in front of you?

How does your self-management practice impact your ability to set and achieve goals?

Closing: A strong self-management practice can help to put you in the position to experience the joy that comes with achieving your personal best.

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Responsible Decision Making: Soul Pancake - Best Advice You've Received (0-100)

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Responsible Decision Making: Soul Pancake - Best Advice You've Received (0-100)

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Note to teachers: In the past few months we've had multiple teachers reach out to ask if we can "re-run" some of the more memorable/impactful lessons from years past. So we've decided to do just that for this cycle - a "greatest hits" collection of lessons, some of which date all the way back to 2021. Enjoy!

Intro: Continuing on with our Soul Pancake series today. Do you ever think about the amount of knowledge, experience, and wisdom that you're surrounded by? How often do you tap into that knowledge, experience and wisdom? I hope your answer is a lot. We tap into the wisdom of others through taking advice. That's what our friends at Soul Pancake will share today...the best advice they've ever received. Let's hear what they have to say, and as always, pay attention to, and be ready to share the piece of advice that hits home for you.

Model: What answer from the video did you connect with? What is the best piece of advice that you've ever received? What's the best piece of advice that you've ever given?

Questions for students:

What answer from the video did you connect with? Why did this answer hit home?

What is the best piece of advice that you've ever received and who gave you that advice?

What is the best piece of advice that you've ever given and who did you give it to?

Closing: It is a responsible decision to learn from the wisdom and experience of others. So do it. Identify trusted, experienced individuals in your community and if they have some solid advice, don't be afraid to take it...and if you've received great advice, don't be afraid to share it with your friends and loved one's:)

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Self-Management: An Olympic Gold Medalist Shares Her Secret To Overcoming Negative Self-Talk

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Self-Management: An Olympic Gold Medalist Shares Her Secret To Overcoming Negative Self-Talk

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Note to teachers: In the past few months we've had multiple teachers reach out to ask if we can "re-run" some of the more memorable/impactful lessons from years past. So we've decided to do just that for this cycle - a "greatest hits" collection of lessons, some of which date all the way back to 2021. Enjoy!

Intro: We all get down on ourselves from time to time. When this happens we might have an internal dialogue that can be quite negative. "You're not good enough, strong enough, smart enough", etc. There is a term for this kind of thought process. It's called "negative self-talk". While it is pretty normal to think in this way from time to time, it's definitely not helpful. So if we find we are speaking negatively to ourselves, we want to have a way to redirect that thought process. Let's get some tips as to how to do that from Olympic Gold Medalist Sanya Richards-Ross.

Model: Share an example of a time when you redirected a negative internal dialogue.

Questions for students:

Describe the negative self-talk Sanya experienced as she prepared to win an Olympic Gold Medal.

Think about a time when you needed to perform at a high level. Did you experience any negative self-talk at that time? If so, what did it sound like and how did it make you feel?

How did Sanya redirect her negative self-talk into a more positive direction?

How can we apply Sanya's advice the next time we experience a bout of negative self-talk?

Closing: Practice self-awareness and recognize when your internal dialogue is going negative. Practice self-management by redirecting those thoughts into a more positive direction.

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An Olympic Gold Medalist Shares Her Secret to Overcoming Negative Self-Talk

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Relationship Skills: It Is Never OK To Bully

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Relationship Skills: It Is Never OK To Bully

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Note to teachers: In the past few months we've had multiple teachers reach out to ask if we can "re-run" some of the more memorable/impactful lessons from years past. So we've decided to do just that for this cycle - a "greatest hits" collection of lessons, some of which date all the way back to 2021. Enjoy!

Intro: You have an impact on the people around you. What kind of impact do you want to make? If you treat others with kindness and compassion, you'll have a positive impact. If you bully someone, your impact will be the exact opposite. Bullying consists of seeking to physically or mentally harm someone through intimidation, mocking or name calling. We have a video today that gives us a glimpse of bullying that took place at a high school basketball game in the form of mocking. I think this video will give you a good look at the negative impact that bullying can have on people. Take a look.

Model: Share your thoughts on the video with students.

Questions for students:

What are your thoughts on the actions of the bully?

Some people might say that the bully was just trying to be funny. Is just trying to be funny a justifiable excuse to make fun of someone?

What impact did the bullies actions have on James Jr and his mother?

Mocking and or making fun of others is a form of bullying. What can you do to make sure that these actions are not a part of our classroom environment and school community?

Closing: I think we can all agree that the actions of the bully in this video are not representative of a solid relationship skills practice. Mocking and making fun of others is not ok. It is hurtful to others and to the community as a whole. Lead with kindness and compassion. Spread joy instead of pain. Let's work together to make bullying, in all forms, a thing of the past.

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Cathedral High School basketball player taunted during game

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Note to teachers: In the past few months we've had multiple teachers reach out to ask if we can "re-run" some of the more memorable/impactful lessons from years past. So we've decided to do just that for this cycle - a "greatest hits" collection of lessons, some of which date all the way back to 2021. Enjoy!

Note to teachers: I think we can either let this video sit with students or you can have an off the cuff discussion to follow. Intro and closing below. Teacher discretion on discussion.

Intro: We can practice social awareness in many different ways: activism, advocating for social justice, fighting for equity in our systems and policies. All noble pursuits. The foundation, and heart of social-awareness lies in the impact we make in our immediate sphere of influence. Do we act with compassion when we see suffering with our own eyes? Do we take the perspective of and empathize with the people around us? Do we stop to lend a helping hand when it is needed? We have a video today that shows action within that immediate sphere in a heartwarming and inspiring way. Take a look.

Model/Discussion: Teacher discretion.

Closing: A community in China. A member of that community is suffering. That suffering is recognized, and actions are taken to alleviate that suffering in a small but meaningful way. A great example of social-awareness and one that I challenge you to emulate as you go about your day.

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Heartwarming: Hundreds of apples scattered onto ground, what comes next?

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Self-Awareness: Iam Tongi - American Idol

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Self-Awareness: Iam Tongi - American Idol

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In the past few months we've had multiple teachers reach out to ask if we can "re-run" some of the more memorable/impactful lessons from years past. So we've decided to do just that for this cycle - a "greatest hits" collection of lessons, some of which date all the way back to 2021. Enjoy!

Note to teachers: This video, while sweet and joyful, is also very emotional as conversations and reflections on the death of Iam's father play a central role in the story shared in this clip. Use discretion in sharing this video with your class if you know that a student is grieving the loss of a loved one.

Intro: Practicing self-awareness starts with acknowledging and naming our emotions. Being human is an emotional experience. We experience 100's of emotions on a daily basis and sometimes, we can experience multiple emotions all at once. It's important to have the ability to recognize emotions because once we recognize an emotion we can then apply strategies or tools that help us to manage those emotions (i.e. recognize that we feel angry, then take five deep breaths to manage that anger in a healthy way). So that's what we are going to do today. We're going to watch a video that is emotional and we are going to talk about the emotions that you both observed and experienced while watching the video. Take a look.

Model: Jump straight to questions for students and share along with your students.

Questions for students:

What emotions did you observe from Iam and the judges in this video?

What emotions did you feel from yourself as you watched the video?

How did Iam manage the strong emotions that he was feeling throughout his tryout?

How did the judges help Iam to manage his emotions throughout his tryout?

Closing: To be human is to be emotional. We will feel sadness, joy, pride, excitement, nervousness...and sometimes, we'll feel all of these things at the same time, like Iam did in this video. Learn to acknowledge, name, and manage your emotions. Doing so will put you in the position to have a high level of self-awareness and a high level of emotional intelligence. Two things that we need to live our lives to the fullest:)

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Iam Tongi Makes The Judges Cry With His Emotional Story And Song - American Idol 2023

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Social Awareness (6-8) - Social Media and Your Mental Health

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Social Awareness (6-8) - Social Media and Your Mental Health

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Intro:

Hi, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about social media and how it affects our mental health.

We all use social media to connect, share, and stay entertained. But have you ever noticed how it can sometimes make you feel anxious, left out, or even stressed?

As we watch this video, think about how social media makes you feel—both the good and the bad. After the video, we’ll talk about how we can use social media in a way that helps, not harms, our mental health.

Model:

Let’s imagine two students:

Student A spends a lot of time online, constantly comparing themselves to others, getting caught up in drama, and feeling bad when their posts don’t get enough likes.

Student B enjoys social media but takes breaks, follows positive accounts, and reminds themselves that not everything online is real.

Which student is making healthier choices? Student B! Because they use social media with balance and awareness.

Let’s reflect on our own habits:

“How does social media make me feel?”

“Do I take breaks from my screen?”

“Am I comparing myself to people online too much?”

Questions for Students:

1. What did the video teach us about social media and mental health?

2. How can social media affect our self-esteem and emotions?

3. What are some warning signs that we are spending too much time on social media?

4. What are some ways to create a healthier balance with social media?

5. What is one small change you can make today to use social media in a more positive way?

Conclusion:

Social media can be a great way to connect with friends and express ourselves, but we have to use it wisely.

This week, let’s pay attention to how social media makes us feel. Try setting a limit on screen time, following positive accounts, or taking a break when needed.

What’s one thing you can do today to create a healthier social media habit?

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Relationship Skills - Healthy Frienships

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Relationship Skills - Healthy Frienships

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Intro:

Hi, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about how the words we use shape our relationships with others.

Have you ever said something in frustration and later regretted it? Or has someone’s kind words ever completely changed your day? The way we speak to others can either lift them up or bring them down.

As we watch this video, think about the power that words have. How do they impact the way we feel about ourselves and others?

Model:

Let’s imagine two different ways a friend could talk to you after a test:

Friend A: "Wow, you got a bad grade. You must not have studied."

Friend B: "I know that test was tough, but I bet you’ll do better next time!"

Which one makes you feel supported? Friend B! Because positive words help us build strong relationships, while negative words can hurt others and create distance.

When we think before we speak, we can ask ourselves:

“Will this comment help or hurt the other person?”

“Would I want someone to say this to me?”

“How can I express myself in a way that builds others up?”

Questions for Students:

1. What did the video teach us about the power of words?

2. Why do words have such a big impact on relationships?

3. Can you think of a time when someone's words really affected you—positively or negatively?

4. How can we use words to strengthen our friendships and family relationships?

5. What’s one way you can practice using more positive words in your daily life?

Conclusion:

The words we choose matter. They can encourage, support, and inspire—or they can hurt, discourage, and divide.

This week, let’s pay attention to the way we speak to others. Let’s make an effort to use words that build up, encourage, and show kindness.

What’s one kind thing you can say to someone today?

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How some friendships last — and others don’t - Iseult Gillespie

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Responsible Decision Making (6-8) - Working Towards Wellness

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Responsible Decision Making (6-8) - Working Towards Wellness

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Intro:

Hi, everyone! Today, we’re talking about responsible decision-making—which means making choices that are good for our future. One of the most important choices we can make is how we take care of our health.

We all know that being active is good for us, but sometimes we choose things like scrolling on our phones or playing video games instead of moving our bodies. The choices we make each day affect our health, energy, and mood.

As we watch this video, think about the choices you make when it comes to being active. What’s one thing you could change to move more and feel better?

Model:

Let’s imagine two students:

Student A sits all day, avoids exercise, and doesn’t make time to move. They feel tired, sluggish, and unmotivated.

Student B finds ways to add movement into their day, like stretching, walking, or playing sports. They feel more focused, energized, and strong.

We all have choices about how active we are. The good news is small changes add up!

Let’s reflect on our habits:

“How often do I choose to be active during the day?”

“What stops me from exercising more?”

“What small changes can I make to be more active?”

Questions for Students:

1. What did the video teach us about why movement is important?

2. What are some small choices we can make to increase our physical activity?

3. How does being active help us make better decisions in other areas of life?

4. What happens when we don’t move enough? How does it affect our mood and focus?

5. What’s one action step you can take to move more this week?

Conclusion:

Being active is a choice—and responsible decision-making means choosing what’s best for our body and mind.

This week, let’s pay attention to our choices and find one small way to add more movement into our day! Even a little extra activity can make a big difference!

What’s one choice you will make this week to move more?

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Increasing Physical Activity: Working Towards Wellbeing

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Intro:

Hi, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about self-management—which means taking responsibility for our own health and well-being.

Did you know that small daily choices, like what we eat, how much we sleep, and how active we are, can have a big impact on how we feel?

Think about a time when you felt really good, focused, and full of energy—what do you think helped you feel that way? Now, think about a time when you felt tired, unmotivated, or frustrated—what might have caused that?

As we watch today’s video, pay attention to which healthy habits help us take care of our minds and bodies.

Model:

Imagine two students:

Student A stays up late, skips breakfast, and spends most of the day sitting. They feel tired, distracted, and moody.

Student B gets enough sleep, eats healthy meals, and moves throughout the day. They feel more focused, energized, and ready to handle challenges.

This happens because healthy habits fuel our brain and body.

When we reflect on our habits, we can ask ourselves:

“How do my daily choices affect how I feel?”

“What habits can I improve to help me feel my best?”

“How can I take better care of my body and mind?”

Questions for Students:

1. What did the video teach us about how our habits affect our well-being?

2. What are some healthy habits that help us feel and think better?

3. Why is self-management important when it comes to making healthy choices?

4. How does taking care of your body help you focus and perform better in school?

5. What’s one small change you can make today to improve your well-being?

Conclusion:

Self-management means taking control of our choices and habits so we can feel our best.

This week, let’s pay attention to how our daily habits affect our mood and energy. Pick one small healthy habit to work on—maybe it’s drinking more water, getting better sleep, or taking more movement breaks.

Let’s make choices that help our bodies and minds thrive! What’s one healthy habit you’ll focus on this week?

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Self-Awareness (6-8) - Your Brain and Physical Activity 

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Self-Awareness (6-8) - Your Brain and Physical Activity 

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Intro:

Hi, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about something really interesting—how physical activity helps our brains work better. We all know that exercise is good for our bodies, but did you know it also improves our focus, mood, and memory?

Think about your brain like a phone or a laptop—it needs power to function properly. When we move our bodies, it’s like charging our brain with energy, making us more alert and ready to learn.

As we watch this video, think about how movement affects your own brain. Have you ever noticed a difference in how you feel after playing a sport, dancing, or even just stretching? After the video, we’ll talk about how staying active can help us feel our best.

Model:

Imagine two students:

One sits all day without moving much. They feel tired, distracted, and unmotivated.

The other takes breaks to move—stretching, walking, or playing a sport. They feel more awake, focused, and in a better mood.

This happens because exercise sends oxygen to the brain, helping us think clearly, stay calm, and manage emotions.

When we reflect on our habits, we can ask ourselves:

“How does my body feel when I move more?”

“What activities make me feel energized and focused?”

“How can I add more movement into my day?”

Just like checking a rearview mirror helps us adjust our driving, reflecting on our physical activity can help us make better choices for our brain and body.

Questions for Students:

1. What did the video teach us about how movement affects our brain?

2. Have you ever noticed a difference in your mood or focus after being active?

3. What are some simple ways we can add more movement into our daily routine?

4. Why is self-awareness about our physical health just as important as our emotional health?

5. How can we encourage each other to make movement a habit?

Conclusion:

Physical activity isn’t just about staying in shape—it’s fuel for our brain. Moving our bodies helps us think better, feel better, and do better in school and life.

As you go through your week, pay attention to how movement affects your focus and mood. Try adding one new way to be active—even if it’s just stretching, taking a walk, or playing outside for a few minutes.

Let’s take charge of our brain health by making movement a priority! What’s one way you can be active today?

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Exploring the importance of physical activity for brain health in children and youth

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Intro: In today's lesson we are going to take some time to reflect on the social awareness practices that you observe in your school community. Before we do that let's take a second to refresh our memories as to what it means to practice social awareness.

Social Awareness is the ability to understand and care about the feelings, needs, and perspectives of others. It means being aware of what's happening around you in your community, at school, or in the world. It helps you see things from different points of view, recognize when someone might need help, and act with kindness and respect towards others. It is vitally important for building strong relationships and being a positive member of any group or community.

Now that memories are refreshed, let's take a look at a video that showcases a woman who has practiced a high level of social awareness in a small town school community. Watch her story then we will come back with one specific question for the all of you.

Model & Question for Students - We have one question today, for both adults and students. Who would you name this school after? Like Claudine, it should be someone who understands, and cares for the feelings, needs and perspectives of others...a person who really cares for our entire community. Take a few minutes to write down you answer and a few reasons as to why you chose this person.

Note to teachers: Lead a discussion where you and your students share your answers.

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A beloved Missouri school custodian's singular honor

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Self-Management: Breath-work, a Go to Self-Management Tool

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Self-Management: Breath-work, a Go to Self-Management Tool

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Intro: We know that breathing exercises or "Breath-work" is a self-management tool that we can use to help manage a variety of emotions. Let's take a second to highlight a few of the benefits that come with practicing "Breath-work".

Feel Calm When You’re Stressed
Sometimes life gets a little stressful—whether it’s schoolwork, sports, or just a bad day. Taking a few slow, deep breaths can help calm your body and mind, like pressing the reset button. It’s like giving yourself a mini-vacation for a few seconds!

Boost Your Focus
When you're feeling distracted or all over the place, breathing exercises help you focus. It’s like getting your brain to settle down so you can think clearly, like when you need to pay attention in class or focus on a game.

Boost Your Energy
If you're feeling tired or sluggish, taking some deep breaths can actually help wake you up. Breathing deeply sends oxygen to your brain and body, which makes you feel more energized. It’s like giving your body a little recharge!

Now that we know a bit more about the benefits of "Breath-work", let's take some time to practice. We have a 5-minute "Breath-work" practice for you today. Sit-back, relax, follow along with the video and see if you can find calm while boosting your focus and energy:)

Model: How do you feel post-practice? Share your experience with your students.

Questions for students:

How do you feel post-practice? Share your experience with your classmates.

Closing: Find calm, focus, and energy in your breath. It's always with you, and it works!

Note to teachers: If you/your students enjoyed this practice, maybe it's something that can fit into your classroom routine on a regular basis.

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5 Minute Box Breathing Exercise to Release Stress

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Intro: Every relationship will experience some form of conflict. Because of that, a super important relationship skill is having the ability to resolve conflict. Conflict resolution is the process of solving problems or disagreements between people in a peaceful and respectful way. When two people or groups have different opinions or want different things, conflict resolution helps them find a solution that everyone can agree on, without fighting or getting upset. It involves listening to each other, understanding each other’s point of view, and working together to find a fair and calm solution. The goal is to solve the problem while maintaining good relationships. Let's watch a video called "Conflict Resolution 101". We'll come back to talk about your conflict resolution skills.

Model: What practice or strategy is most helpful to you when resolving conflict?

Questions for students:

Let's reflect on the video. The five quick tips for resolving conflict are listed below. Which tip do you most closely connect with?

1. Focus on the problem at hand

2. Recognize and control your own feelings

3. Be willing to forgive

4. Don't just listen, but hear

5. Negotiate and compromise

Have you ever used one of these tips when resolving a conflict? If so, can you share your story?

Do you have any conflict resolution tips that you would add to our list?

Closing: Conflicts happen, but they don't have to ruin our, or someone else's day. Follow and add to these conflict resolution tips. When you, you're practicing strong relationship skills.

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Administration for Children and Families (ACF)

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Responsible Decision Making: Your Daily Routine

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Responsible Decision Making: Your Daily Routine

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Intro: The practice of Responsible Decision Making allows an individual to reflect on their abilities to make good choices in a variety of settings. Today, I want to reflect with you on the decisions you make in relation to your daily routine. What is a daily routine? A daily routine is like a blueprint for your day, and just like how a builder needs a solid plan to create something amazing, having a routine helps you make the most out of every day! Here’s why it’s so important, especially for young people like you:

1.Gives You Structure

A routine helps you organize your time. Instead of waking up and wondering what to do next, a routine guides you with clear steps. This structure can help you stay on track and be more productive throughout your day.

2. Improves Focus

When you know what to do and when, your mind can focus better. You won’t waste time deciding whether you should study, play, or relax. With a plan, you can do all those things without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Builds Good Habits

Routines help you develop healthy habits, like getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising. When you do things regularly, they become second nature. Good habits are the foundation for success!

Let's take a moment to observe a day in the life of a Sophomore student at Columbia University named Junzhe. Notice the choices he makes throughout his day. Are they positive, negative, choices that you would make? We'll answer these questions following the video.

Model: What is a can't miss component of your daily routine? Why is this component a helpful and healthy habit?

Questions for students:

Let's talk about the video. Junzhe allowed for a glimpse at a day in the life of a young college student. What habits and practices from his daily routine did you like? Do you think that Junzhe made any bad choices throughout his day?

Describe your daily routine?

What are some habits or practices that you'd like to change?

What are some habits or practices that keep you focused and organized?

Take a moment to jot down an outline of a daily routine that will help you to function as your best self during the school-week.

Closing: Setting and sticking to a daily routine that keeps you, focused, organized, and practicing good habits is an example of responsible decision making. So set, and stick to those healthy habits that can help you to get the most out of each day:)

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A Productive Day In My Life at Columbia University

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Self-Awareness: Values Reflection - Sportsmanship 

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Self-Awareness: Values Reflection - Sportsmanship 

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Intro: A component of self-awareness is reflection on the values and beliefs that we hold and practice. Let's reflect on a value that we call Sports-man/womanship. What does it mean to be a good sport? Well, Sports-man/womanship is all about showing respect and kindness to others, whether you're winning or losing. It's about playing fair, following the rules, and being a good teammate. When you practice Sports-man/womanship, you cheer for your teammates, encourage your opponents, and stay positive, even when things don’t go your way. It means understanding that the game is not just about scoring points or winning, but also about learning, having fun, and growing as a person. Good Sports-man/womanship can help build strong relationships (with both teammates and opponents) and makes sports a more enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Do you hold Sports-man/womanship as a core value? Have you had experience with in an activity where some one was a good or a poor sport? I want to hear about your experience but first let's watch a quick video where we'll see good sportsmanship in action at the conclusion of a hard fought football game. Take a look.

Model: What has been your experience with Sports-man/womanship? How do you practice it? Do you have an example when an opponent showed it to you? Share your story with students.

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on the video.

Is Sports-man/womanship something that you practice? How do you show it when participating in a competition or activity?

Describe a time in your life when an opponent was lacking in Sports-man/womanship in a competition or activity that you participated in. How did it feel to be on the receiving end of poor Sports-man/womanship?

Describe a time in your life when an opponent showed Sports-man/womanship in a competition or activity that you participated in. How did it feel to be on the receiving end of good Sports-man/womanship?

Closing: Competition provides an opportunity to learn and grow, and that's way more important than winning or losing. Let's work to value Sports-man/womanship and practice that value through giving respect, kindness, and encouragement to others when in the heat of competition.

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Instead of Celebrating with his team, he did this!👀 #2022

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Intro:
Hi, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about inclusion. Inclusion means making sure everyone feels welcome and valued, no matter how they look, where they come from, or what their abilities are.

We’ll watch a video where Steve Hartman shares powerful stories about inclusion and kindness. As you watch, think about how including others can make a big difference in their lives and your own.

Model:
Imagine you’re playing a game at recess, and you see someone sitting alone. Instead of leaving them out, you could:

1. Notice: Pay attention to those who might feel left out.

2. Invite: Ask them to join the game or group.

3. Be kind: Show them they’re welcome by including them in conversations and activities.

Inclusion is about going beyond noticing someone—it’s about taking action to make sure they feel like they belong.

Questions for Students:

1. What stories stood out to you in the video about inclusion?

2. Why is it important to notice and include those who might feel left out?

3. Can you think of a time when someone included you? How did it make you feel?

4. What are some ways you can practice inclusion in your school or community?

5. How does including others make everyone stronger and happier?

Conclusion:
Inclusion means making space for everyone to feel welcome and valued. When we include others, we spread kindness and build stronger friendships and communities.

Think about one way you can practice inclusion this week. Whether it’s inviting someone to sit with you at lunch, saying hello to someone new, or teaming up with a classmate, small actions make a big difference. Let’s all work to create a world where everyone belongs!

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Kindness 101 with Steve Hartman: Inclusion

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Relationship Skills 6th-8th Collaboration 

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Relationship Skills 6th-8th Collaboration 

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Intro:
Hi, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about collaboration and what it means to work together effectively. Whether you’re on a sports team, working on a group project, or solving problems in your community, collaboration is key to success.

We’re going to watch a video where Jason Yeka Baba shares lessons he learned from playing football. Think about how teamwork helped him achieve success and how you can apply those lessons to your own life.

Model:
Collaboration in football—or any team activity—requires everyone to work together toward a shared goal. Here’s how you can collaborate like a pro:

1. Communication: Share your ideas and listen to others. For example, on the field, players call out passes or strategies.

2. Support your team: Encourage teammates, especially when they make mistakes.

3. Focus on the goal: Stay committed to the team’s success, not just your own.

When everyone does their part, the team becomes stronger, and success is more likely. Collaboration isn’t just about winning; it’s about growing together.

Questions for Students:

1. What lessons did Jason share about teamwork and collaboration?

2. How does communication help a team work together effectively?

3. Can you think of a time when you worked with a group to achieve something?

4. What role does encouragement and support play in collaboration?

5. Why is focusing on the group’s success more important than individual achievement?

Conclusion:
Collaboration is more than working together—it’s about building trust, supporting each other, and staying focused on shared goals. Just like in football, success happens when everyone does their part and lifts each other up.

This week, think about a situation where you can collaborate with others—whether in class, at home, or with friends. Practice listening, communicating, and supporting your teammates. Remember, collaboration makes us stronger and helps us achieve great things!

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Lessons I Learnt From Football | Jason Yeka Baba | TEDxKids@Mbora

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Responsible Decision Making 6th-8th Problem Solving

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Responsible Decision Making 6th-8th Problem Solving

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Intro:
Hi, everyone! Did you know that you have the power to solve not just small problems, but big ones too? Whether it’s helping your friends, making your school a better place, or even addressing challenges in your community, you can make a difference.

Today, we’ll watch a video where Michael Platt shares how kids like you can tackle big problems. As we watch, think about how you can use your skills and ideas to solve challenges you care about.

Model:
Imagine you notice something in your school that needs improvement, like more students being included at lunch. Solving a big problem like that can feel overwhelming, but you can break it down into steps:

1. Identify the problem: What’s the issue, and why does it matter?

2. Think of solutions: Brainstorm ideas that could help.

3. Take action: Start with one small step, like inviting someone new to sit with you or talking to a teacher about starting an inclusion project.

Solving problems, even big ones, starts with small, meaningful actions. You have the power to make a difference!

Questions for Students:

1. What did Michael Platt say about how kids can solve big problems?

2. What are some examples of big problems you’ve seen at school or in your community?

3. How can breaking a big problem into smaller steps make it easier to solve?

4. Can you think of a problem you’d like to solve? What would your first step be?

5. Why is it important to take action, even if the problem seems big?

Conclusion:
Big problems can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to be! By identifying the issue, brainstorming solutions, and taking small steps, you can create real change.

Think about one problem you’d like to help solve, whether it’s at school, at home, or in your community. Write down one small step you can take to get started. Remember, kids like you are already solving big problems—now it’s your turn!

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Kids Can Solve Big Problems  | Michael Platt | TEDxJacksonville

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Intro:
Hi, everyone! Today, we’re talking about goal setting—a skill that helps us take control of our future and accomplish the things that matter most to us. Whether it’s improving in school, learning a new skill, or preparing for something big, setting goals is a great way to stay focused and motivated.

As we watch this video, think about how setting and working toward goals can make a difference in your life. Afterward, we’ll discuss how to set meaningful goals and stick with them.

Model:
Think about a time when you wanted to improve at something, like getting better at a sport or raising your grades. To succeed, you probably needed a clear plan.

For example, if my goal is to become a better basketball player, I might:

1. Practice shooting hoops for 20 minutes every day.

2. Watch videos to learn new techniques.

3. Ask my coach for tips and feedback.

Goals give us direction and help us track our progress. The key is to make them specific, realistic, and time-bound.

Questions for Students:

1. What goals did you hear about in the video?

2. How did the people in the video stay focused on their goals?

3. What is a goal you have for this month?

4. Why is it important to set specific and realistic goals?

5. How can tracking your progress help you stay motivated?

Conclusion:
Goal setting is an important way to take charge of your life and achieve what matters to you. By making your goals clear, creating a plan, and working hard, you can make great things happen!

This week, take a moment to write down one goal you want to achieve and list three steps to get there. Remember, every small step brings you closer to success!

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Intro:
Hi, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about something important called self-reflection. Self-reflection is when we take a moment to look back on our actions, choices, and feelings—like checking a rearview mirror when driving a car. It helps us see where we’ve been so we can decide where we want to go next.

As we watch these videos, think about the “rearview mirror” idea and how looking back at our actions can help us grow. After the videos, we’ll talk about what self-reflection looks like and how it can help us make better choices.

Model:
Think about a time when you made a choice you were proud of—maybe helping a friend, studying hard for a test, or being kind to someone new. Now, think about a time when you made a choice you wish you could change. Self-reflection helps us look back at those moments.

When we reflect, we can ask ourselves:

“What did I do well, and how did it make me feel?”

“What could I do differently next time?”

Just like drivers use a rearview mirror to see what’s behind them, we can use self-reflection to see how we’re growing and what we can improve.

Questions for Students:

1. What did the videos teach us about using the “rearview mirror” to reflect on our choices?

2. Why is it helpful to look back at what we’ve done?

3. Can you share a time when reflecting on your actions helped you make a better choice?

4. What are some questions you can ask yourself during self-reflection?

5. How can self-reflection help you grow into the person you want to be?

Conclusion:
Self-reflection is a powerful tool to help us learn and grow. It’s like using a rearview mirror to understand where we’ve been and make better decisions for where we’re going.

As you go through your day, take a moment to reflect on your actions and feelings. Ask yourself, “What am I proud of? What can I improve?” Remember, self-reflection helps us become the best version of ourselves. Let’s all think of one thing we want to do better this week and work toward it with confidence!

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Rearview Mirror Part 1 (Self Reflection) | In Control Middle School SEL

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Christmas Week - The Night Before Christmas

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Christmas Week - The Night Before Christmas

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Note to teachers: This week we have three read alouds of classic Christmas stories for you to share with your students. You can use these read alouds as a route to spark connecting classroom conversations (i.e. sharing of favorite Christmas memories, the best gift you've ever given, plans for break) or as an opportunity for you and your students to find some peace and calm in what can be a busy and chaotic week.

We will return with a release of a full cycle of mini-lessons on Sunday, January 5th.

Have an amazing holiday season and enjoy some much needed time off!

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The Night Before Christmas – 🎄 Read aloud of the classic Christmas story

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Note to teachers: This week we have three read alouds of classic Christmas stories for you to share with your students. You can use these read alouds as a route to spark connecting classroom conversations (i.e. sharing of favorite Christmas memories, the best gift you've ever given, plans for break) or as an opportunity for you and your students to find some peace and calm in what can be a busy and chaotic week.

We will return with a release of a full cycle of mini-lessons on Sunday, January 5th.

Have an amazing holiday season and enjoy some much needed time off!

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Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg & read by Liam Neeson

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Christmas Week - A Charlie Brown Christmas

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Christmas Week - A Charlie Brown Christmas

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Note to teachers: This week we have three read alouds of classic Christmas stories for you to share with your students. You can use these read alouds as a route to spark connecting classroom conversations (i.e. sharing of favorite Christmas memories, the best gift you've ever given, plans for break) or as an opportunity for you and your students to find some peace and calm in what can be a busy and chaotic week.

We will return with a release of a full cycle of mini-lessons on Sunday, January 5th.

Have an amazing holiday season and enjoy some much needed time off!

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A Charlie Brown Christmas Book Read Aloud | Christmas Books for Kids | Children's Books

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Social Awareness: Reflection Lesson - Support students in a reflection on their social awareness practice.

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Social Awareness: Reflection Lesson - Support students in a reflection on their social awareness practice.

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Note to teachers: This cycle of lessons focuses on guiding students through a reflection on their personal social and emotional practice, and how that practice has impacted their lives during the current school year. Print out and distribute the worksheet included in the link above and consider following the suggested format below when implementing the lesson.

Intro: As we get closer to Christmas break, we're going to take some time to reflect on our personal social and emotional skills practice. Today's focus in on social awareness. I want you to think about how you practice social awareness, and how that practice has impacted you in the first three months of the school year...and I want you to put your thoughts down on paper using the worksheet that I've provided for you.

Questions for students/group discussion:

Teachers, you can have students complete the worksheet on their own, then follow up with a group discussion on each bulleted item. Or you can guide students through each bulleted item, and discuss as you go-along.

Closing: Take the time to celebrate your students practice in the social and emotional space. Display their worksheets in your class, have students create a poster sharing their go-to practices, create a video of students sharing their practice and post on a school social media account.

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Relationship Skills: Reflection Lesson - Support students in a reflection on their relationship skills practice.

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Relationship Skills: Reflection Lesson - Support students in a reflection on their relationship skills practice.

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Note to teachers: This cycle of lessons focuses on guiding students through a reflection on their personal social and emotional practice, and how that practice has impacted their lives during the current school year. Print out and distribute the worksheet included in the link above and consider following the suggested format below when implementing the lesson.

Intro: As we get closer to Christmas break, we're going to take some time to reflect on our personal social and emotional skills practice. Today's focus in on relationship skills. I want you to think about how you practice relationship skills, and how that practice has impacted you in the first three months of the school year...and I want you to put your thoughts down on paper using the worksheet that I've provided for you.

Questions for students/group discussion:

Teachers, you can have students complete the worksheet on their own, then follow up with a group discussion on each bulleted item. Or you can guide students through each bulleted item, and discuss as you go-along.

Closing: Take the time to celebrate your students practice in the social and emotional space. Display their worksheets in your class, have students create a poster sharing their go-to practices, create a video of students sharing their practice and post on a school social media account.

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Mid Year Reflection: Relationship Skills

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Responsible Decision Making: Reflection Lesson - Support students in a reflection on their responsible decision making practice.

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Responsible Decision Making: Reflection Lesson - Support students in a reflection on their responsible decision making practice.

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Note to teachers: This cycle of lessons focuses on guiding students through a reflection on their personal social and emotional practice, and how that practice has impacted their lives during the current school year. Print out and distribute the worksheet included in the link above and consider following the suggested format below when implementing the lesson.

Intro: As we get closer to Christmas break, we're going to take some time to reflect on our personal social and emotional skills practice. Today's focus in on responsible decision making. I want you to think about how you practice responsible decision making, and how that practice has impacted you in the first three months of the school year...and I want you to put your thoughts down on paper using the worksheet that I've provided for you.

Questions for students/group discussion:

Teachers, you can have students complete the worksheet on their own, then follow up with a group discussion on each bulleted item. Or you can guide students through each bulleted item, and discuss as you go-along.

Closing: Take the time to celebrate your students practice in the social and emotional space. Display their worksheets in your class, have students create a poster sharing their go-to practices, create a video of students sharing their practice and post on a school social media account.

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Mid Year Reflection: Responsible Decision Making

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Self-Management: Reflection Lesson - Support students in a reflection on their self-management practice.

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Self-Management: Reflection Lesson - Support students in a reflection on their self-management practice.

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Note to teachers: This cycle of lessons focuses on guiding students through a reflection on their personal social and emotional practice, and how that practice has impacted their lives during the current school year. Print out and distribute the worksheet included in the link above and consider following the suggested format below when implementing the lesson.

Intro: As we get closer to Christmas break, we're going to take some time to reflect on our personal social and emotional skills practice. Today's focus in on self-management. I want you to think about how you practice self-management, and how that practice has impacted you in the first three months of the school year...and I want you to put your thoughts down on paper using the worksheet that I've provided for you.

Questions for students/group discussion:

Teachers, you can have students complete the worksheet on their own, then follow up with a group discussion on each bulleted item. Or you can guide students through each bulleted item, and discuss as you go-along.

Closing: Take the time to celebrate your students practice in the social and emotional space. Display their worksheets in your class, have students create a poster sharing their go-to practices, create a video of students sharing their practice and post on a school social media account.

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Self-Awareness: Reflection Lesson - Support students in a reflection on their self-awareness practice.

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Self-Awareness: Reflection Lesson - Support students in a reflection on their self-awareness practice.

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Note to teachers: This cycle of lessons focuses on guiding students through a reflection on their personal social and emotional practice, and how that practice has impacted their lives during the current school year. Print out and distribute the worksheet included in the link above and consider following the suggested format below when implementing the lesson.

Intro: As we get closer to Christmas break, we're going to take some time to reflect on our personal social and emotional skills practice. Today's focus in on self-awareness. I want you to think about how you practice self-awareness, and how that practice has impacted you in the first three months of the school year...and I want you to put your thoughts down on paper using the worksheet that I've provided for you.

Questions for students/group discussion:

Teachers, you can have students complete the worksheet on their own, then follow up with a group discussion on each bulleted item. Or you can guide students through each bulleted item, and discuss as you go-along.

Closing: Take the time to celebrate your students practice in the social and emotional space. Display their worksheets in your class, have students create a poster sharing their go-to practices, create a video of students sharing their practice and post on a school social media account.

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Note: Please feel free to utilize the group activity as an extension to today's lesson.

Intro:
Hello, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about something important we can learn from teamwork: building a positive identity. Teamwork isn’t just about working together—it’s also about discovering our strengths, respecting others, and growing as people. We’re going to watch a video that shows how teamwork, especially in sports, can teach us about who we are and help us build confidence. As you watch, think about what teamwork means to you and how it helps us grow.

Model:
Have you ever been on a team where you learned something new about yourself? Maybe you discovered that you’re a good leader, that you work well with others, or that you have the patience to listen and support your teammates. Teamwork teaches us to trust ourselves and others, and it helps us develop a strong sense of identity. For example, if I’m on a sports team, I might learn that I’m good at encouraging others. Think of a time when you were part of a team and learned something about yourself. How did teamwork help you grow?

Questions for Students:

1. What are some ways that teamwork helps us build a positive identity, as we saw in the video?

2. How does working on a team help us learn more about ourselves and our strengths?

3. Can you think of a time when you learned something about yourself by being on a team?

4. Why is it important to respect and support our teammates?

5. How can building a positive identity through teamwork help us in other areas of life, like school or friendships?

Practice Activity:
Teamwork and Identity Reflection

Ask students to write a short reflection about a time when they were part of a team, such as in sports, a group project, or a club.

In their reflection, have them describe what they learned about themselves through that experience (e.g., a new strength, skill, or value).

Invite students to share their reflections with a small group, discussing how teamwork helped them discover more about themselves.

Conclusion:
Teamwork is a powerful way to learn about who we are and what we’re capable of. As we saw in the video, working with others helps us build a positive identity, showing us our strengths and helping us grow in confidence. Remember, teamwork is not only about reaching a goal but also about supporting each other and learning more about ourselves. The next time you’re on a team, think about how you can grow and contribute in ways that make you feel proud of who you are.

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Note: Please feel free to utilize the group reflection activity as an extension to today's lesson.

Intro:
Hello, everyone! Today, we’re going to dive into what we can learn from teamwork. In middle school, teamwork becomes even more important as we start working on bigger projects, playing sports, and taking on leadership roles. We’re going to watch a video that highlights four key things teamwork can teach us. As you watch, think about how teamwork has helped you learn or grow and how it can make us stronger together.

Model:
Have you ever been on a team or in a group where each person had a different role or skill? Teamwork teaches us to value each other’s strengths and work toward a shared goal. For example, if we’re in a group project, one person might be great at organizing, another at researching, and someone else at presenting. By appreciating these strengths, we can all contribute to the team’s success. Think about a time you learned something from working on a team. Teamwork helps us grow by teaching us communication, patience, and trust.

Questions for Students:

1. What are the four key things that teamwork can teach us, as mentioned in the video?

2. Why is it important to understand and value each team member’s strengths?

3. Can you think of a time when you learned something new from working with others?

4. What do you think is the most important skill for successful teamwork? Why?

5. How can teamwork help us become better leaders and communicators?

Practice Activity:
Group Reflection and Skill-Building

Divide students into small groups and assign each group a scenario (e.g., planning a school event, completing a community service project, or solving a school challenge).

Have them discuss how they would use teamwork to accomplish the goal, assigning roles, discussing each person’s strengths, and deciding how to communicate effectively.

After the discussion, each group shares their teamwork approach with the class, highlighting what teamwork skills they used.

Conclusion:
Teamwork is a powerful tool that helps us learn, grow, and achieve more together than we could alone. Like we saw in the video, teamwork teaches us patience, communication, trust, and appreciation for each other’s strengths. When we work as a team, we build relationships and improve our leadership skills. Remember, teamwork is more than just working with others—it’s about learning from each other and becoming stronger together. Next time you’re in a team, use these skills to make the experience even better for everyone!

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Responsible Decision Making: Making Good Choices

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Responsible Decision Making: Making Good Choices

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Note: Please feel free to utilize the reflection chart activity as an extension to today's lesson.

Intro:
Hello, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about making good choices, which is an important part of responsible decision-making. Every day, we make choices—some are easy, and others take a little more thought. We’re going to watch a video that shows us how to make good choices, even when it’s difficult. As you watch, think about a choice you made recently and whether it was easy or challenging. Afterward, we’ll talk about what helps us make decisions we feel good about.

Model:
Think about a time when you had to make a tough choice, like deciding to do your homework before playing a game or choosing how to react if someone upset you. Making good choices means thinking about what will help you and others feel good in the long run, not just in the moment. For example, if I’m tempted to skip a task, I might remind myself that finishing it will make me feel accomplished. Good decision-making often means thinking ahead about the impact of our actions. Think of a time when making a good choice helped you feel proud or accomplished.

Questions for Students:

1. What are some examples of good choices that we learned about in the video?

2. Why is it helpful to think ahead about the effects of our choices?

3. Can you think of a time when you made a choice that helped you or others?

4. What makes it challenging to make good choices sometimes?

5. How can we remind ourselves to make choices we feel good about, even if they’re tough?

Practice Activity:
Decision-Making Reflection Chart

Have students create a simple “Decision-Making Reflection Chart.” They can write down:

A choice they made recently.

What they thought about before making the choice.

How the choice made them feel afterward.

What they would do differently next time (if anything).

Encourage students to use the chart throughout the week to reflect on their choices and practice thinking ahead.

Conclusion:
Good decision-making means thinking about what’s best for us and others, even when it’s difficult. Like the video taught us, each choice has an impact, and when we make good choices, we can feel proud and confident. Remember, taking a moment to think about the effect of your actions helps you make responsible choices every day. Keep using your Decision-Making Reflection Chart to practice and improve this skill!

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SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING VIDEO LESSONS: WEEK 9 - MAKING GOOD CHOICES

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Note: Please feel free to utilize the coping skills activity as an extension to today's lesson.

Intro:
Hello, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about coping skills, which are tools we can use to handle big emotions, like stress, frustration, or sadness. We’re going to watch a video that teaches us different ways to manage our feelings when they start to feel overwhelming. As you watch, try to find one or two coping skills you’d like to practice for when you’re dealing with tough emotions.

Model:
Sometimes, we all feel strong emotions—maybe before a big test, when we have a lot to do, or when something doesn’t go our way. When we know some coping skills, we can help ourselves feel better and stay in control. For example, I might take a few deep breaths, go for a short walk, or listen to my favorite music. Think of a time when you felt stressed or frustrated—what coping skill could have helped you manage that feeling?

Questions for Students:

1. What are some of the coping skills that you learned about in the video?

2. Why is it important to have strategies to help us manage big emotions?

3. Can you think of a time when you used a coping skill to help yourself feel better?

4. Which coping skill do you think would be the most helpful for you? Why?

5. How can practicing these skills help you feel more in control of your emotions?

Practice Activity:
Coping Skills Chart

Have students create a “Coping Skills Chart” where they can write down or draw their favorite coping skills.

Encourage them to include a variety of options, such as deep breathing, drawing, talking to a friend, or using a stress ball.

Allow students to personalize their chart with colors or pictures and keep it somewhere they can easily see when they need it.

Conclusion:
Coping skills are tools that help us manage big feelings and stay in control. Just like we learned in the video, having different ways to calm down and feel better helps us make good choices and handle difficult moments. Remember to use your Coping Skills Chart as a reminder of ways to stay calm and take care of yourself when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Practicing these skills makes us stronger and better at managing our emotions every day!

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Coping Skills For Kids - Managing Feelings & Emotions For Elementary-Middle School | Self-Regulation

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Note: There is an extension activity that is connected to today's lesson. Please feel free to use as a follow up.

Intro:
Hello, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about understanding our feelings and why it’s important to know what we’re feeling. Middle school can be a time of a lot of emotions, and sometimes we might feel a mix of different feelings all at once. We’re going to watch a video that shows us how recognizing and naming our emotions can help us feel more in control. As you watch, think about times when you’ve had strong emotions and how naming those feelings might help you manage them better.

Model:
Think about a time when you felt a strong emotion, like anger, frustration, or excitement. When we understand what we’re feeling, it’s easier to know why we’re feeling that way and what we might need to do about it. For example, if we’re feeling anxious before a big test, knowing it’s anxiety can help us take deep breaths or talk to someone about it. Think of a time you had to name your feelings and how it helped you feel more in control. When we learn to recognize our emotions, we can respond in a way that’s helpful for us and those around us.

Questions for Students:

1. What are some of the emotions discussed in the video, and how do they show up in our thoughts or actions?

2. Why is it important to name our emotions when we’re feeling them strongly?

3. Can you think of a time when understanding what you were feeling helped you make a better choice?

4. How might understanding emotions like frustration, sadness, or nervousness help us manage them better?

5. What are some ways we can remind ourselves to take a step back and recognize our feelings in the moment?

Practice Activity:
Feelings Journal

Have students start a “Feelings Journal” where they can reflect on one emotion they experienced each day. In their journal, they can write:

The emotion they felt (e.g., anger, excitement).

What happened that led to this feeling.

How they responded to that feeling.

What they might do differently next time.

Encourage students to use their journals to practice recognizing and understanding their emotions each day.

Conclusion:
Just like we saw in the video, understanding our feelings is an important part of knowing ourselves. When we name our feelings, we’re able to figure out what we need and how to respond in a way that helps us feel more in control. Remember, emotions are normal, and learning to recognize and manage them is a skill we can practice. Using your “Feelings Journal” can help you track your emotions and build this skill every day. Knowing our feelings helps us make decisions we feel good about and helps us grow in understanding ourselves.

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Understanding Feelings for Middle School Students : Tips for Self-Awareness & Emotional Control

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Social Awareness: Showing Care and Kindness By Serving Your Community

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Social Awareness: Showing Care and Kindness By Serving Your Community

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Intro: Serving your community is a sure fire way to practice social awareness. What would define service to your community? Really anything that you do for the good of others out of the kindness of your heart. Have you ever served your community? Have people in your community ever served you? We'll talk about that in a moment but first let's learn a bit about the story of a young woman named Ruby. Ruby set her mind to doing good things for residents of a nursing home. Her service has definitely made a positive impact, take a look.

Model: Share your thoughts on Ruby's route to serving her community. What kind of impression did her story make on you?

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on Ruby's route to serving her community. What kind of impression did her story make on you?

Have you ever benefitted from the service of others? If so, in what way? How did the kindness of others impact your life?

Have you ever served your community through volunteering or any other means? How did giving kindness through serving others impact you? Can you share your story?

Closing: In today's video Ruby gave us a great model of service. She did good things for others because she wanted to help them to feel acknowledged and cared for. She learned that doing good for others had a positive impact on herself. Take some time to serve the people in your community. You might be surprised by how good it makes you feel:)

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11-year-old girl grants wishes to nursing home residents

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Self-Management: Resilience - Freddie Freeman's Journey From Grief to Joy

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Self-Management: Resilience - Freddie Freeman's Journey From Grief to Joy

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Note to teachers: There are two videos contained in today's lesson. Share the embedded video following the intro. Share the linked video (found above the "model" section) right after sharing the first video.

Intro: When working to develop a strong self-management practice it is a good idea to learn from models or role models who demonstrate a high level of aptitude in their self-management practice. That's what we are going to do today as we meet a professional baseball player named Freddie Freeman. As a fifth grader, Freddie lost his mom to cancer. Unsurprisingly, Freddie had a lot of difficult emotions to manage in the years following that loss...and he is still impacted by that loss even today. Let's take some time to listen and learn from Freddie as he shares his story, take a look.

Second video: After learning about Freddie's story, do you want to take a moment to see where he's at today? Well, as of late October, he's a World Series Champion, a World Series MVP...and he hit a walk off Grand Slam in Game 1 of this years World Series. Freddie has definitely experienced difficult times in his life...But through self-management, he's been able to turn grief into joy. Take a look at his walk-off Grand Slam. Second video here.

Model: Share your thoughts on Freddie's story. What lessons can you take away from Freddie that will help strengthen your self-management practice?

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on Freddie's story. What lessons can you take away from Freddie that will help strengthen your self-management practice?

Closing: Life is not free of challenges and really difficult experiences...but, as Freddie demonstrated, with a strong self-management practice, those challenges can be overcome.

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Freddie Freeman On The Loss Of His Mother

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Intro: A component of a strong self-awareness practice is having a growth mindset. Growth Mindset is defined as "the belief that a persons abilities can be improved through effort, learning, and persistence." Why is it important to have a growth mindset? Well it's important because it helps us to be the best version of ourselves. We are not going to just wake up and be amazing at math, or magically turn into a varsity basketball player. We'll need to work hard and develop our skills to achieve those things. Having a growth mindset helps us to master the art of skill development. People with a growth mindset are willing to learn from mistakes and failures, find value in criticism, and view challenge and struggle as an opportunity to learn and grow. Have you used a growth mindset to overcome a struggle or a challenge? I want to hear your story, but first, let's take a look at a video of a woman, named Colleen, who achieves a lifelong dream after 45 years of effort in developing her skills. Take a look.

Model: Share your thoughts on the video. In what ways have you used a growth mindset in mastering a skill or overcoming a challenge?

Questions for students:

Let's start with Colleen. 45 years worth of bowling and she finally rolls a perfect game. Do you think she has a growth mindset? Why or Why not? Do you think the 45 year wait made this moment sweeter for Colleen? Why or why not?

Let's talk about you. What challenge or struggle have you overcome because of a growth mindset?

Is there a subject, lesson, or activity that you are struggling with right now? How can you employ a growth mindset to help you in overcoming that struggle?

Closing: View challenges as opportunities and strengthen your abilities and skills through effort, learning and persistence. If you do this you have a growth mindset...and you'll be practicing self-awareness:)

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Responsible Decision Making: Staying Focused

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Responsible Decision Making: Staying Focused

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Intro: Are you easily distracted? Do you have trouble staying focused? Do you find yourself constantly being told to focus by teachers, coaches, or adults in your life? If you've answered yes to any of these questions you are going to need to watch today's video closely. Making the decision to stay focused and on task is an important skill. A skill that we have the ability to cultivate. What happens when we don't have that skill? Well we can miss out on lessons and learning...and we can find ourselves making a costly mistake because of that lack of focus. Chicago Bear Tyrique Stevenson found himself on the wrong end of one of these costly mistakes recently in a game against the Washington Commanders. Take a look at the video to see how Tyrique's lack of focus ended up costing the Bears a victory:(

Model: Share your thoughts on the video. Share an example of a time when a lack of focus impacted your life.

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on the video. How do you think Tyrique felt about how his lack of focus impacted the team?

Let's talk about you? Have you ever struggled with staying focused? What does that look/feel like for you?

What practices or strategies can we use to increase focus and limit distraction? (i.e. put phones away, block out "noise" from other people, use positive self-talk to stay on task)

Closing: Let's all learn from Tyrique's experience. Find practices that help you focus and utilize those practices in times when you need to block out distractions. Do this as a component of your Responsible Decision Making Practice.

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Tyrique Stevenson 'responsible' for Hail Mary loss | Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz | NBC Sports

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Relationship Skills: Be Inclusive - Words of Advice From Army's Head Lacrosse Coach

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Relationship Skills: Be Inclusive - Words of Advice From Army's Head Lacrosse Coach

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Intro: Today's relationship skills lesson focuses on creating inclusive environments in our school community. What is an inclusive environment? It is a space where everyone feels respected and valued, and has equal opportunity to succeed regardless of background or identity. Inclusive environments are created when all members of a community feel connected to the group. We can build that connection by being aware of what we say and how we say it. Do we speak in ways that build up and support our classmates, teammates, friends, and family members? Or do we speak in ways that tear down, damage, and divide or classmates, teammates, friends and family members? Inclusive environments are healthy environments, that benefit all members of the community. Let's talk about how we can make our classroom environment more inclusive, but first, take a look at a video where Army West Point's Head Lacrosse Coach Joe Alberici speaks on inclusion to a group of young lacrosse players. Take a look.

Model: In your experience, what actions and behaviors are barriers to an inclusive environment...and what actions and behaviors support a healthy and inclusive environment?

Questions for students:

In today's video, coach Joe stated the following: "Be aware of how you talk to everybody, and make sure that they feel good about themselves so that you're not dragging people down through your words." Do you agree with this advice, why or why not?

What kinds of words, statements, or communication styles can make you or someone else feel disconnected from a community or group?

What kinds of words, statements, or communication styles can make you or someone else feel connected to a community or group?

What are some things that we can do on a daily basis to insure that our classroom community is an inclusive space, where everyone feels respected and valued?

Closing: We have all of the control when it comes to creating our classroom community environment. Let's act and communicate in ways that promote respect, value, and inclusion.

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Joe Alberici, the army lacrosse coach, gives one of the most inspiring speeches you will ever hear!

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Intro:

Hey everyone! Today, we’re going to take on a challenging but important topic—bias and how we can break it to build a more inclusive community. The “Dot Exercise” will help us explore how judgments or assumptions we make about others can create divisions, even if we don’t realize it. Social awareness means understanding the experiences and feelings of others, and sometimes it requires us to unlearn the biases we might have. Let’s dive into how we can become more aware and build a stronger community.

Model:

Think about a time when you felt judged or treated differently because of something like how you look, where you come from, or what you believe. How did it make you feel? Now, think about a time when you might have made assumptions about someone else. Bias can often happen without us realizing it, but recognizing and unlearning these biases is a critical step toward building a more accepting and inclusive community.

Questions for Students:

1. What did you notice during the Dot Exercise about how people are treated based on assumptions or biases?

2. How do you think it feels to be excluded or judged based on something out of your control?

3. Why is it important to recognize and challenge our own biases, even if they are unconscious?

4. How can unlearning biases help us create a more inclusive and supportive community at school?

5. What are some actions we can take, both individually and as a group, to break biases and include others in meaningful ways?

Conclusion:

The Dot Exercise shows us how easy it can be to make assumptions about others, but it also reminds us that we have the power to break those biases and build a stronger community. Social awareness isn’t just about understanding other people’s experiences—it’s about actively working to create spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued. Let’s commit to being more mindful of our thoughts and actions and work together to unlearn biases and build a community based on respect and inclusion.

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NCCJ - The National Conference for Community and Justice

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Dot Exercise - Unlearning: Breaking Bias. Building Community.

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Today, we’re going to focus on how appreciating others and showing enthusiasm can make a big difference, especially in sports and other team activities. The video we’re about to watch shows one of the most successful college coaches in basketball, Geno Auriemma. He speaks on the importance of our attitude, not just for us, but also the people around us. We’ll discuss how encouraging words and actions create a better experience for everyone involved, and then we’ll discuss how these lessons apply to our own relationships.

Model:

Think about a time when someone cheered you on or gave you positive feedback. Maybe it was in a game, a class project, or even just hanging out with friends. How did their enthusiasm make you feel? Now, think about a time when you encouraged someone else. Showing support and appreciation not only lifts others but strengthens your relationships. Enthusiasm is contagious—it helps everyone perform better and feel more connected.

Questions for Students:

1. In the video, why do you think the coach believed body language was so important for the player and the team?

2. Why is it important to show appreciation and enthusiasm, even when things aren’t going as planned?

3. How does receiving positive encouragement from others affect your performance and confidence?

4. Can you think of a situation where your support made a difference for someone else?

5. What are some ways you can show appreciation and enthusiasm in your everyday interactions, both in and out of sports?

Conclusion:

Appreciating others and showing enthusiasm can have a huge impact on how people feel and perform. Whether you’re on a sports team, in a classroom, or just with friends, offering encouragement strengthens your relationships and creates a positive environment. Remember, your words and actions have the power to lift others up and help them succeed. Let’s make it a habit to appreciate and encourage those around us—both in big and small ways.

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A Must Watch For Parents,Coaches and Players in Sport !!!

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Intro:

Hey everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about how the decisions we make can have lasting effects, both positive and negative. Responsible decision-making is about understanding that every action has a consequence. We’ll explore how to think ahead before making choices and how those choices can impact not only yourself but the people around you.

Model:

Think back to a time when you made a decision that had a bigger impact than you expected. Maybe you didn’t think through the consequences, or maybe you were proud of the positive outcome. What did you learn from that experience? Being able to reflect on our choices is a key part of making responsible decisions in the future.

Questions for Students:

1. Can you think of a time when your actions had unexpected consequences, either positive or negative? What did you learn from it?

2. How can thinking about the potential consequences of your actions help you make better decisions?

3. Why is it important to consider how your decisions affect other people, not just yourself?

4. What role do emotions play when making decisions, and how can you manage them?

5. How can making thoughtful decisions help you build trust and respect in your relationships?

Conclusion:

Every choice we make has a ripple effect. Whether the consequences are positive or negative, they are a result of our actions. Responsible decision-making means taking time to think about what could happen before you act. When you make thoughtful choices, you’re not just helping yourself—you’re also considering how your actions affect others. Let’s make decisions we can be proud of, knowing they’ll lead to good outcomes.

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Intro:

Hey there! Today, we’re going to focus on something that can help you succeed in school—effective study habits. Self-management isn’t just about controlling your emotions; it’s also about managing your time and effort in smart ways. We’ll go over three tips that can help you study more efficiently, reduce stress, and feel more prepared for tests and assignments.

Model:

Think about a time when you felt overwhelmed by studying or didn’t know how to manage your time. What strategies did you use, if any? Now, think about a time when you felt prepared and confident for a test or project. What was different about the way you studied? Reflecting on both positive and negative experiences can help you fine-tune your approach.

3 Study Tips:

1. Create a Study Schedule: Break down big assignments into smaller tasks and set aside specific times to study each day. This helps avoid cramming and reduces stress.

2. Active Learning: Instead of just reading your notes, try teaching the material to someone else or explaining it aloud. Engaging with the content actively helps you retain information better.

3. Take Breaks: Your brain needs time to recharge. Study in focused 25-30 minute intervals and then take short breaks to refresh your mind. This helps you stay focused and prevents burnout.

Questions for Students:

1. Which of the study tips do you think would be the most helpful for you? Why?

2. Have you ever used a study schedule before? How did it help, or what was challenging about it?

3. How can active learning help you understand and remember material better than just reading through notes?

4. Why do you think taking breaks is important when studying?

5. How can improving your study habits help you manage stress and feel more confident in your schoolwork?

Conclusion:

Effective study habits are a big part of self-management. By using strategies like a study schedule, active learning, and taking breaks, you can study smarter, not harder. Remember, it’s not just about putting in the time—it’s about how you use that time. Developing good habits now will help you not only in school but in life.

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Intro:

Hey everyone! Today, we’re going to dive into something really important—knowing your character strengths. Character strengths are the traits and qualities that make you who you are. Whether it’s being creative, kind, or resilient, knowing these strengths helps you build confidence and make decisions that align with your values. We’ll explore how identifying your strengths can help you navigate school, friendships, and future goals.

Model:

Think about a time when you faced a challenge or helped someone out. What strengths did you use to overcome that situation or make a difference? Maybe it was patience, leadership, or compassion. Recognizing these strengths can help you understand what makes you unique and how you can continue to grow and develop.

Questions for Students:

1. What character strengths do you think are your strongest? How do you know?

2. How can knowing your strengths help you in situations where you’re feeling unsure or stressed?

3. What is one area where you’d like to improve or grow in terms of your character strengths?

4. How can your strengths impact the way you interact with others or handle difficult situations?

5. Why is self-awareness important when thinking about your future goals and decisions?

Conclusion:

Understanding your character strengths is a key part of self-awareness. When you know what you’re good at and where you can grow, you’re better equipped to face challenges, make thoughtful decisions, and build strong relationships. Take time to reflect on your strengths regularly—it will help you feel more confident in who you are and what you can achieve.

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Relationship Skills: The Power Of The Pep Talk

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Relationship Skills: The Power Of The Pep Talk

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Note to teachers: A fun video today that showcases a heartwarming project created by a group of Kindergartners in California. Their project is a great example of amplifying student voice, while teaching young people the importance of sharing social support. How can you share your students words of wisdom? A school social media page, an "inspiration wall" in a main hallway?...lots of routes to take but maybe today's lesson can inspire a fun classroom project for you and your students.

Intro: A key relationship skills practice is something that we call social support. Social support is defined as "the perception and actuality that one is cared for, has assistance available from other people, and most importantly, that one is part of a supportive social network." Social support can be displayed in many different ways. We can give advice, give hugs, give high fives, or just give our time and patience by listening to what someone has to say. Today's lesson is going to focus on one of my favorite forms of social support...the Pep Talk. Take a look at today's video-showcasing a kindergarten classroom that took their Pep Talk's nationwide. We'll come back to talk about how you've given, and received social support through a pep talk.

Model: What's the greatest pep talk that you've ever received? Share your story with your students.

Questions for students:

What's the greatest pep talk that you've ever received? Share your story with your classmates.

What's the greatest pep talk that you've ever given? Share your story with your classmates.

We saw the kids in today's video share pep talks and words of advice that were broadcasted across the country. If you had the opportunity to share a pep talk, or words of encouragement to people across the country, what would you say?

Closing: Fine tune your relationship skills through offering social support to the people in your life. Who knows, your pep talk might just be exactly what someone needs to hear:)

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Pep talk: Children's telephone hotline goes viral

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Social Awareness: Meet Sherman Thomas (aka 6figga_dilla)

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Social Awareness: Meet Sherman Thomas (aka 6figga_dilla)

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Note to teachers: If you'd like to share videos on Chicago history created by Shermann Thomas with your students follow this link to his YouTube page or this link to his TikTok.

Intro: When we practice social awareness we strive to develop and understanding of the perspectives of others, including those from diverse backgrounds and cultures. So how do we develop that understanding? Well, just like anything else, we have to educate ourselves. How do we educate ourselves? Well we can lean into some support from a local social-awareness icon named Shermann Thomas. Also know as 6figga_dilla. Shermann specializes in sharing and celebrating the history and the people of Chicago. In doing so, he helps thousands in developing an understanding of the perspectives of others. Recently, he was featured on the Today show. Take a look at his story and we'll come back to chat about our social awareness practice.

Note to teachers: To share an example of Shermann's work with students please click here.

Model: Share your thoughts on Shermann and the work that he does to spread social awareness.

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on Shermann and the work that he does to spread social awareness.

What are some ways in which you educate yourself to help you in developing an understanding of the perspectives of others?

If you were able to share a story about your neighborhood or our school on Shermann's Tik Tok page what story would you tell?

Closing: To develop a strong social awareness practice, take the time to educate yourself on the stories, histories, and perspectives of others...and like Shermann, don't be afraid to help others in developing their understanding:)

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TikTok Dad Shares Chicago History To Younger Generation

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Responsible Decision Making: The Doorway of Decisions

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Responsible Decision Making: The Doorway of Decisions

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Intro: We all make hundreds of choices every day but in today's Responsible Decision Making lesson, we are going to focus on two kinds of choices. 1) the choices we make that keep us in our comfort zone and 2) the choices we make that promote personal growth. Let's take a look at a video called "The Doorway of Decisions" that dives a bit deeper into these two kinds of choices. We'll follow up the video with a classroom discussion.

Model: Teachers, have a quick discussion to insure students have an understanding of the two routes that are available at "The Doorway of Decisions". Down choices lead to comfort/stagnation. Up choices lead to growth and development. Give an example of what a "Down" and "Up" choice might be.

Questions for students:

Let's talk about the "Doorway of Decisions" and the "Down" choices that might keep us in our comfort zone, and ultimately lead us away from the life we want to lead. What are some "Down" choices that you might make that keep you in your comfort zone? (ex. getting distracted by your phone while doing homework)

Let's now move to talking about the "Up" choices that keep us on the path to growth, development, and ultimately a rich and fulfilling life? What are some "Up" choices that you make that help you grow and thrive? (ex. Signing up to read at church even though you fear public speaking)

What is one "Up" choice that you can consistently make that will help you grow and develop as a student?

Closing: Have an awareness of the choices that you make. While we all need to make a few "Down" choices from time to time. Let's make sure that the majority of our choices are the "Up" choices that lead to growth and development.

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The Doorway of Decisions from Your ACT Auntie

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Self-Management: 4-7-8 Calm Breathing Exercise

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Self-Management: 4-7-8 Calm Breathing Exercise

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Note to teachers: Continuing our self-management exploration with another breathing exercise. Today's activity is the 4-7-8 breathing exercise. We'll give a quick introduction and a concluding statement. There will not be student questions included in this lesson don't hesitate to have an organic chat with your students about how they feel post exercise. As shared a few weeks back, if your students enjoy this practice, come back to it on a regular basis.

Intro: We know that a strong self-management practice involves the ability to process and regulate big emotions in healthy ways. We also know that breath work is an efficient and easy to access tool that we can use to manage any number of big emotions. So let's take some time today to practice another breathing exercise, this one is called the 4-7-8 technique. Take a look at the video, follow along with the narrator, and find calm through your breath.

Model/Questions for Students: Teacher discretion

Closing: The 4-7-8 breathing exercise. If you can count, and you can breath, then you can do this exercise anywhere:) Don't hesitate to jump into the exercise then next time you have a desire to find your calm.

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4-7-8 Calm Breathing Exercise | Relaxing Breath Technique | Extended Breaths | Pranayama Exercise

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Note to teachers: A component of self-awareness as defined by CASEL is "the abilities to understand one's values and how they influence behavior across contexts". In today's lesson, have your students define their values. You can do this in the form of a conversation but it could be a good idea to have students put pen to paper, or create a doc on their devices-->you can then circle back to reflect on if actions/behaviors are aligning with defined values throughout the school year.

Intro: Having the ability to define, understand, and ultimately "live out" your values is a key component to a strong self-awareness practice. Before we do that, let's take a moment to make sure that we understand what values are.

First off, what are values? "Values are the ideas that are important to you and characterize who you are as an individual. They are the standards you believe in and consider desirable in your life."

Second, how do values influence you? "Values determine your priorities, guide your decisions, and influence how you interact with others. They can also motivate you to reach your goals."

Now that you have and idea of what values are, and how they influence you, start your thought process on the things that you value. We'll take a look at a quick video that might be helpful in inspiring your thinking. When finished with the video, we'll come back and give you some time to define your values.

Model: Answer the questions below to share your values with students.

What values help you to be the person you want to be?

What values help you to treat yourself in a loving and caring manner?

What values help you to treat others in a loving and caring manner?

What are some things that you feel passionate about? How do your values help you in pursuing that passion?

Questions for students: We'll have students answer the same questions that you answered. As stated above, have students document their answers to these questions. Following documentation, have a discussion where students share their values with you/classmates.

What values help you to be the person you want to be?

What values help you to treat yourself in a loving and caring manner?

What values help you to treat others in a loving and caring manner?

What are some things that you feel passionate about? How do your values help you in pursuing that passion?

Closing: When we define, and live through our values, we create a road map that helps to guide our journey in life. I hope you enjoyed today's self-awareness activity, and more importantly, I hope you enjoy your journey:)

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Responsible Decision Making - Productivity 

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Responsible Decision Making - Productivity 

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Intro:
In today’s video, we’ll explore more about the science of productivity and how it relates to responsible decision-making. Making smart decisions about how you spend your time and energy is key to staying productive. Let’s see what we can learn from the video about making better choices when it comes to managing our time and tasks.

Model:
Think about a time when you had to choose between two activities—maybe one was more fun, but the other was more important, like homework. The video talks about making choices based on what’s most productive. Being aware of how your decisions impact your productivity is a great way to practice responsible decision-making.

Questions for Students:

What are some decisions you make daily that impact your productivity?

How does understanding productivity science help you make smarter decisions about your time and energy?

Can you think of a time when a decision you made affected your ability to complete tasks or reach a goal? What could you have done differently?

How can responsible decision-making improve your schoolwork and personal life?

Conclusion:
Being productive isn’t just about working hard—it’s about making responsible decisions with your time and energy. The science of productivity helps us understand how our choices impact what we get done. So the next time you have to make a decision about how to spend your time, think about what will help you be the most productive and achieve your goals!

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Intro:
Today, we’re going to watch a video that dives into the science of productivity—how we can manage our time more effectively. Managing your time well is a key part of self-management. When you can control how you use your time, you can focus better and accomplish more. Let’s watch the video and explore how machines can teach us some helpful tips on productivity!

Model:
Have you ever felt like there’s just not enough time to get everything done? Or maybe you’ve found yourself procrastinating and struggling to manage your tasks? The video talks about strategies that can help us manage time more like machines—breaking down tasks and focusing on efficiency. Think about how this could apply to your own life and schoolwork.

Questions for Students:

What are some time-management tips from the video that you think would help you the most?

How does managing your time effectively help reduce stress and improve your focus?

Can you think of a time when poor time management caused you stress or made you feel overwhelmed? How could better self-management have helped?

What strategies will you try to improve your time management in school or at home?

Conclusion:
Managing your time effectively is an important part of self-management. When you have a plan for how to spend your time and stay focused, you can get more done and feel less stressed. Remember, you’re in control of your time, so use the tips from the video to take charge of your schedule and boost your productivity!

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How to manage your time more effectively (according to machines) - Brian Christian

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Intro:
Hey everyone! Today, we’re going to watch a short video about something you might have done before—talking to yourself! Have you ever caught yourself saying things out loud when you’re trying to figure something out? Don’t worry, it’s actually normal and can help you become more self-aware. After the video, we’ll talk about how talking to yourself can help you understand your thoughts and emotions better.

Model:
Think about a time when you were working through a problem, maybe in school or at home, and you found yourself talking out loud. How did it help you think more clearly? Talking to yourself can actually help you get in touch with your thoughts, which is a great example of self-awareness—understanding what’s going on in your mind.

Questions for Students:

Why do you think talking to yourself can help you understand your thoughts better?

How does being aware of your thoughts and emotions help you make decisions or solve problems?

Can you think of a time when talking to yourself helped you calm down or figure something out?

What other strategies can you use to better understand your thoughts and emotions?

Conclusion:
Talking to yourself isn’t weird—it’s a way of practicing self-awareness. When you talk through your thoughts, you’re giving yourself time to understand what you’re thinking and feeling, which helps you make better decisions. So next time you catch yourself talking out loud, remember, you’re just getting in touch with your own mind!

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Intro:
In today’s video, we’re going to watch a heartwarming story about a community that came together to help a man in need. This video shows us the power of social awareness, which means understanding and caring about the feelings and needs of others. Let’s watch how this community helped someone, and then we’ll talk about how we can do the same in our lives.

Model:
Have you ever seen someone who needed help and wondered what you could do to make things better? Social awareness means noticing when someone might need help and thinking about how your actions can make a positive difference. Let’s think about how the community in the video came together to support someone in need.

Questions for Students:

How did the community in the video show social awareness by helping the man?

Why is it important to notice when others might need help or support?

Can you think of a time when you helped someone who needed it? How did that make them feel?

How can practicing social awareness help make your community or school a better place?

Conclusion:
Social awareness means understanding the needs of others and taking action to help them. Just like the community in the video, we can all make a difference by noticing when someone needs help and stepping in to support them. Let’s practice paying attention to the people around us and looking for ways to be kind and helpful in our own community.

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Community rallies to give legally blind man rides to work

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Intro:
Today, we’re going to watch a video that shows some amazing moments of sportsmanship during the Paris Olympics. These athletes didn’t just compete—they showed kindness and respect to their opponents. This is a great example of relationship skills, which help us build strong, positive connections with others. Let’s watch the video and talk about how we can show sportsmanship in our own lives.

Model:
Think about a time when you were playing a game or competing in something. How did you treat the people around you? Did you show kindness, even when things didn’t go your way? Sportsmanship is all about building good relationships by treating others with respect, whether you win or lose.

Questions for Students:

What are some ways the athletes in the video showed sportsmanship?

Why is it important to show kindness and respect, even when you’re competing?

Can you think of a time when you showed good sportsmanship during a game or activity?

How does showing respect and kindness help build strong relationships with others?

Conclusion:
Sportsmanship is a great way to practice relationship skills because it teaches us to respect and care for others, even in competitive situations. The next time you play a game or work on a project with others, remember to show kindness and respect—it’s the best way to build strong, positive relationships.

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See touching moments of sportsmanship at the Paris Olympics

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Relationship Skills: Who Are You "Running" For?

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Relationship Skills: Who Are You "Running" For?

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Note to teachers: Quick heads up - We have two videos that we'll show today. Start with the "family reaction" video above. I will link a video of the race that they are reacting to below the final student question.

Intro: In our most recent self-awareness and responsible decision making lessons we talked about dreams, goals, and becoming the person that we want to become. So what does that have to do with relationship skills? Well, we don't reach our dreams, or become the people that we want to become, without strong relationships in our lives. Strong relationships provide us with support, encouragement, and motivation. I want to take some time today to talk about the people in your lives who are supportive of you, and help you on your path to achieving your dreams. But first, I want to show you a video of the family of a man named Quincy Hall. Quincy won the gold medal in the 400 meter dash at last summers Olympics. Today's video shows his family's reaction as they watched Quincy run his race. I think the video makes it clear that Quincy had some really strong and supportive relationships backing him up throughout his journey to achieving his dream. Take a look and see if you agree:)

Model: Share your thoughts on the video. Who are the people that support you as you work hard to achieve your dreams and goals? How do they show that support?

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on the video. Do you think that Quincy received support, encouragement, and motivation from this group? Explain your thoughts?

Who are they people that support you as you work hard to achieve your dreams and goals? How do they show that support?

How do you let these people know that you appreciate their support?

Do you want to see a video of the race that Quincy's friends and family were reacting to? Click here for a link to that video.

Closing: We need strong and supportive relationships in our lives. Be open to both receiving and giving support to the people around you...and just like Quincy and his friends and family, celebrate when you, or one of your crew achieves their dream:)

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Responsible Decision Making: I Choose Responsibility - Mr. Brown

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Responsible Decision Making: I Choose Responsibility - Mr. Brown

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Intro: When we practice responsible decision making we take ownership of our choices and our actions. We have a great video today from a man named Mr. Brown. In the video he shares the importance of the role that self-discipline and self-control play in a strong responsible decision making practice. Let's take some time to listen and learn from Mr. Brown. We'll come back to discuss what he shared, and we'll see if we can use any of his advice in our lives.

Model: How does self-discipline and self-control play a role in your responsible decision making practice?

Questions for students:

What are some ways in which you "Choose Responsibility"?

Mr. Brown shared a definition or responsibility that he called "Taking care or your business". What do you think of that definition? What is some "business" that you take care of on a daily basis?

Mr. Brown described self-discipline as "doing what you should do to become the person that you want to become." Who do you want to become? What are the things that you need to do to become that person?

Closing: Mr. Brown is right, self-discipline and self-control are integral components of a strong responsible decision making practice. Let's work to follow his advice: "Take care of your business, and do what you should do to become the person that you want to become."💪

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Self Discipline, Self Control, & Responsible Decision Making for Kids | I Choose Responsibility

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Self-Awareness: Dreams, Goals, and Golds

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Self-Awareness: Dreams, Goals, and Golds

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Note to teachers: You can add to this lesson by having students create an artifact to document their goals. That could come in the form of a journal entry, a personal narrative on future aspirations, or even a collage that artistically displays a students goals.

Intro: You wake up, get dressed, and show up to school. Are you showing up and going through the motions...or are you showing up with a purpose. If you're showing up with a purpose, you most likely have dreams and goals that you are working towards (Nice!). If you're showing up and going through the motions...then it's time for you to lay out some dreams and goals so you can put some purpose and passion into your school day. Having dreams, goals, a game-plan to make those dreams a reality, and the ability to work through that game-plan on a daily basis is a huge component of your self-awareness practice. I want to hear about your dreams and your goals...but take some time to think through exactly what it is that you're working towards. While you're thinking, take a look at a video that shows some Olympic athletes from this past summer as they achieve their dreams on the track in Paris.

Model: What dreams and goals have you achieved? What did it take for you to reach them? Share your story with your students.

Questions for students:

Let's talk about the track athletes that we just watched. They are the best of the best at what they do. Think about those athletes at your age. Do you think they showed up to school and practice with a purpose, or do you think they just went through the motions?...be detailed in sharing your thoughts.

Let's lay it out there. What is a dream or a goal that you have for yourself? What are some things that you can do (on a daily basis) to make that dream a reality?

Closing: Dream, believe (work smart, work hard) achieve. Set goals and follow a daily process that will help you achieve those goals. Do this, and you'll be practicing self-awareness.

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Note to teachers: It's not often that we use a read-aloud video for grade levels beyond second grade. We will use one today though as we introduce inclusion to our late elementary grade levels. The read-aloud breaks inclusion down to it's core, the desire for everyone to feel welcome. Keep this idea front of mind for your students throughout the year and encourage the practice of inclusion in classroom and school-wide settings.

Intro: When we practice social awareness we work to create a community that is caring and connected. Caring and connected communities are inclusive communities. An inclusive community is one that welcomes and values people from all backgrounds and strives to insure that all members feel like they belong. So how do we create an inclusive community here at school? Well we start by making sure that everyone feels welcomed. And that's what today's read aloud is about. It's called "All Are Welcome". Take a look and we'll come back to talk about how we create a classroom and school community where All Are Welcome.

Model: Share some examples of when you've observed your students being welcoming and inclusive towards classmates and schoolmates.

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on the read aloud?

What are some ways in which you've welcomed or included classmates, schoolmates, or even adults in the building over the past couple of weeks?

What are some ways in which a classmate, schoolmate, or adult in the building has made you feel welcomed or included?

How can we work to make sure that all members of our school community feel welcomed, valued, and a sense of belonging when they enter our classrooms and shared spaces?

Closing: All are welcome here. Let's make sure that statement is representative of how we make each other feel on a daily basis:)

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All Are Welcome – 🏫 Read aloud kids book about diversity and going to school!

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Note to teachers: As we continue our exploration of social and emotional skills with our students we settle into our second self-management lesson. Our goal in teaching self-management is to provide students with strategies that they can use to self-soothe when confronted with big emotions. One of the most useful and impactful strategies that we can share is breath work. Breath work can calm an over stimulated nervous system...and it's a tool that is always at our disposal when we need it. If your students enjoy the Rainbow Breathing technique used in this lesson, don't be afraid to come back to it frequently for use as a transition or a brain break. The more practice your students get, the more likely they'll use the strategy when they really need it.

Intro: Have you ever felt nervous, anxious, or overly excited? We all encounter these big emotions from time to time and when we do, it helps to have a tool that we can use to find our calm. What if I told you that you all have this powerful, calming tool with you right now. Well you do, and that tool is your ability to breathe. That's right, taking long and deep breaths is one of the best ways for all of us to find calm when experiencing a big emotion. So let's put that tool to use, with an exercise called "Rainbow Breathing".

Instructions

You're going to watch a video that displays a rainbow on the screen.

There will be a blue ball that traces each color of the rainbow.

As the ball moves to the right, you breathe in through your nose.

As the ball moves to the left, you breath out through your mouth.

Model: Perform the exercise with your students. Share how breath work helps you find calm.

Questions for students:

How did you feel about the rainbow Breathing exercise? Was it difficult or easy?

How did your body and mind feel after completing the exercise?

How can you use Rainbow Breathing or any kind of deep breath to find calm when feeling some big emotions?

Closing: When you need to find calm, reach for that tool that is always with you...your breath:) Doing so is a great example of a strong self-management practice.

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Learn With Ms. Prima from LittleYellowStar

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Rainbow Breathing For Kids | Rainbow Breathing Mindfulness For Kids - Calm Video For Kids

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Intro: The fifth and final competency of focus is called social awareness. The definition of social awareness is as follows:  The abilities to understand the perspectives of and empathize with others, including those from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and contexts. Ultimately social awareness comes down to the impact you have on your community and the people who make up your community. Is that impact a positive one? One that brightens the lives of the people you come into contact with? Those who have a high level of social awareness make the world a better place with each an every positive interaction they have with others. Care for the people around you. Show that care. Leave people feeling valued, respected, and loved. if you do that, you'll be a social awareness warrior. Let's take a look at a video where a group of people show a young man that he's valued, cared for and loved. A great example of social awareness in action. Take a look.

Model: Share your thoughts on the actions of the pep band in the video. How did it make you feel to watch? How do you think it felt for the birthday boy to experience?

Questions for students:

Share your thoughts on the actions of the pep band in the video. How did it make you feel to watch? How do you think it felt for the birthday boy to experience?

What are some things that you do to positively impact your community?

Do you know someone who has a strong social awareness practice? What does this person do to make the world a better place? What can you learn from this person to enhance your own social awareness practice?

Closing: Make a positive impact on the people around you. Empathize with others. Spread love, joy, and happiness. Care for your community and show that care through your actions.

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Marching band Spontaneous Birthday Surprise for a Kid

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19.3k votes, 284 comments. 2.6m members in the HumansBeingBros community. A place for sharing videos, gifs, and images of people being total bros.

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Intro: The fourth competency that we'll focus on in our social and emotional practice is relationship skills. There are many relationship skills. Empathetic listening, care, compassion, support, forgiveness, motivation, humor, the list goes on and on. We'll talk about all of these subjects as the year goes on, but if you ask me, the foundation of all relationship skills is kindness. It feels good to give kindness. It feels good to receive kindness. When we lead with kindness in our interactions with others we can't go wrong. Lets watch a quick animated short called "Color Your World With Kindness." Once finished I want to hear about your relationship with kindness.

Model: Describe the kindest thing someone has done for you. How did that action make you feel in the moment? What kind of impact did it have on your life?

Questions for students:

Describe the kindest thing someone has done for you. How did that action make you feel in the moment? What impact did it have on your life?

Describe the kindest thing that you've done for someone. What motivated you to be kind in that moment.How did it feel to give kindness?

What are some ways in which you can utilize kindness as a relationship skill in your interactions at school?

Closing: Be kind. It's not always the easiest thing to do but it is always the right thing to do:)

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Intro Lesson: Responsible Decision Making

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Intro Lesson: Responsible Decision Making

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Intro: The third competency in our social and emotional practice is called responsible decision making. You have a lot of choices to make on a daily basis. What steps do you take to insure that those choices are responsible ones? When we reflect on our responsible decision making practice we want to focus on the steps that we take in the process of making decisions. Are we reactionary or are we patient? Are we influenced by emotion or reason? Let's get the ball rolling on our responsible decision making practice by watching a video that comes to us from Great Britain. This video will share three tips that you may be able to include in your responsible decision making practice. Take a look.

Model: What is something that you do when faced with making a big decision? How has this practice helped you to make good decisions?

Questions for students:

The video shared three tips to utilize when confronted with a big decision, they are as follows: Free up your brains bandwidth. Give your brain the fuel it needs. Get honest advice from a friend. Which one of these tips will you use in your responsible decision making practice and why?

Do you have any tips that you'd like to share? What are some ways in which you make good choices? Please be specific in describing your practice.

Closing: It is important to make good choices but it is also important to reflect on the choices we've made. When we reflect on our past choices and plan for future choices, we fine tune our decision making abilities. That's what this practice is about. Putting yourself in the position to make good choices in an efficient and effective manner. Good luck with your practice!

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How to make better decisions | 3 quick tips | BBC Ideas