Introduction
It’s important for educators to help young students develop a positive self-image and learn how to feel good about themselves. In this blog post, we will explore an engaging no-prep activity, discussion questions, and related skills that can be used in a PreK classroom to encourage students to feel confident and happy.
No-Prep Activity: Positive Affirmation Circle
This simple, yet effective activity requires no preparation or materials from the educator. To begin, have the students sit in a circle. The teacher will start by saying something positive about themselves, such as “I am a good listener” or “I am kind to my friends”. Then, the person to their left will say something positive about themselves, and so on until everyone in the circle has shared a positive affirmation. Encourage students to think about their strengths and what they like about themselves. This activity helps students practice self-affirmation and promotes a positive classroom environment.
Discussion Questions
- Why is it important to say nice things about ourselves?
- How do you feel when you think of something you’re good at?
- What can you do when you’re feeling sad or upset to help yourself feel better?
- How can we help our friends feel good about themselves?
- Can you think of a time when you felt proud of yourself? What happened?
Related Skills
Beyond feeling good about themselves, there are other related skills that are essential for students’ overall well-being and development. These include:
- Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others is crucial for building strong relationships and fostering a supportive environment.
- Resilience: Learning how to bounce back from setbacks and cope with challenges helps students develop a growth mindset and persevere through difficult times.
- Self-regulation: Teaching students to manage their emotions and behaviors is key to helping them navigate social situations and maintain a balanced emotional state.
- Communication: Encouraging open and honest communication enables students to express their feelings, needs, and ideas effectively.
Next Steps
Helping students feel good about themselves is a vital part of their social-emotional development. By incorporating activities like the Positive Affirmation Circle and engaging in thoughtful discussions, you can create a nurturing classroom environment that supports students’ self-esteem and emotional well-being.
To access more resources and sample materials for teaching social-emotional skills, be sure to sign up for free samples at Everyday Speech. These resources will provide you with additional tools and strategies to continue fostering a positive learning environment for your PreK students.
