In this blog post, we will explore the concept of tattling and how it can negatively impact social relationships. We will also discuss an easy no-prep activity that educators can use to help students learn when it is appropriate to report rule-breaking and when it is best to let it go. Lastly, we will provide discussion questions, mention related skills, and share a link for free sample materials that can help students develop better social-emotional skills.

Introduction

In a school setting, it is essential for students to know the difference between tattling and reporting. Tattling is when a student tells on someone for a minor infraction that does not harm anyone or put them in danger, while reporting is when a student alerts an adult about a situation that could be harmful or dangerous. By understanding the distinction between these two actions, students can make better decisions about when to involve an adult and foster healthier relationships with their peers.

No-Prep Activity

This no-prep activity can help students learn the difference between tattling and reporting by using a role-playing scenario:

1. Divide the class into small groups of 3-4 students.
2. Provide each group with a list of scenarios, some involving tattling and others involving reporting. For example:
   • Scenario 1: A student takes an extra cookie from the cafeteria when they were only supposed to take one.
   • Scenario 2: A student is being bullied by a group of classmates during recess.
   • Scenario 3: A student accidentally drops their pencil and it makes a loud noise during class.
   • Scenario 4: A student sees someone vandalizing school property.
3. Ask each group to discuss each scenario and decide whether it is a situation that requires reporting or if it is just tattling.
4. After the discussions, have each group share their decisions with the class and explain their reasoning.

This activity encourages students to think critically about the situations they encounter and helps them understand the importance of distinguishing between tattling and reporting.

Discussion Questions

1. Why is it important to know the difference between tattling and reporting?
2. How can tattling negatively affect friendships and peer relationships?
3. What are some examples of situations where it is necessary to report rule-breaking to an adult?
4. What are some ways to handle a situation where you feel the urge to tattle but know it is not necessary to involve an adult?
5. How can understanding the difference between tattling and reporting contribute to a positive school environment?

Related Skills

Understanding the difference between tattling and reporting is just one aspect of developing healthy social-emotional skills. Other related skills that contribute to students’ social-emotional growth include:

• Empathy: Recognizing and understanding the feelings of others.
• Conflict resolution: Learning how to resolve disagreements in a respectful and constructive way.
• Assertiveness: Expressing one’s feelings, needs, and opinions in a respectful manner.
• Active listening: Paying full attention to the speaker and understanding their message.

Next Steps

Helping students develop their social-emotional skills is a crucial part of their overall growth and success. To access free sample materials that can support your students in developing these essential skills, including understanding the difference between tattling and reporting, visit Everyday Speech Sample Materials and sign up today!