Increase Positive Peer-to-Peer Interactions and Reduce Bullying Online and In-Person
This set of free lesson plans include classroom instruction and activities designed to build student social awareness, self awareness, empathy, and encourage positive bystander behaviors.
Even on a good day, teaching online can induce head pounding, fog braining, energy-draining symptoms. This simple five-minute activity at the beginning of an online session has the power to energize students (and teachers), help everyone to be present and focused, and bring all into a belonging mindset.
When we played this game, we noticed a clear change of energy in the group. As each person shared what brought them joy and as they heard that joy repeated by another, their face seemed to brighten. Our shoulders lifted and our voices became lighter.
Empathy can be taught. The opportunity to imagine what life is like for someone facing difficult challenges, activates the compassion response. It’s an intentional, generous act of the heart.
Sam knew she had a gift. And maybe she thought that was all she had to offer. So she held onto it tightly, reminding others of her intelligence whether they asked or not, either unaware of the social cost, or not quite knowing how to do it differently.