Introduction
As children grow and develop, they begin to make more decisions on their own. Guiding students to make smart decisions is essential for their well-being and for avoiding potential pitfalls. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of teaching smart decision-making skills to elementary students, focusing on decisions related to feelings, others’ feelings, and issues of right and wrong. We will also provide a no-prep activity, discussion questions, and information on related skills to help educators support their students in making wise choices.
No-Prep Activity: Decision-Making Scenarios
This activity requires no preparation or materials and is designed to help students practice making smart decisions in various situations. To begin, have students sit in a circle. Present a scenario to the group that involves a difficult decision, such as seeing a friend being teased or witnessing a friend cheating on a test. Give students a few moments to think about the situation and what they would do.
Next, ask for volunteers to share their thoughts on what they would do in the scenario. Encourage students to explain their reasoning for their chosen course of action. After each student shares, facilitate a group discussion to explore the different options and their potential outcomes. This activity not only helps students practice making smart decisions but also encourages them to consider the perspectives of others.
Discussion Questions
- What are some situations where you have had to make a difficult decision? How did you decide what to do?
- How does considering multiple options help you make better decisions?
- Why is it important to think about the consequences of our actions before we make a decision?
- What strategies can you use to avoid making decisions based on peer pressure?
- How can we support our friends in making smart decisions?
Related Skills
Beyond smart decision-making, there are several other skills that can help students navigate life’s challenges and improve their social-emotional well-being. Some of these skills include:
- Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others can help students make decisions that consider the well-being of everyone involved.
- Problem-solving: Learning how to identify and resolve issues effectively can lead to better decision-making in various situations.
- Self-awareness: Being aware of one’s own feelings, values, and beliefs can help students make decisions that align with their personal values and goals.
- Communication: Developing strong communication skills can help students express their thoughts, feelings, and needs, as well as listen to and understand the perspectives of others.
Next Steps
To further support your students in developing smart decision-making skills and other important social-emotional competencies, consider signing up for free sample materials from Everyday Speech. These resources are designed to help educators teach valuable life skills in engaging and effective ways. By incorporating these materials into your teaching, you can empower your students to make wise choices and navigate the challenges of life with confidence.
