Every conversation is a chance to help kids build the skills that carry them for life. This collection brings that idea to the discussion table: 20 ready-to-go discussion starters, two for each of the ten essential Words to Live By lessons, covering all five social-emotional learning competencies. Pick a prompt and spark a conversation that helps the lesson stick.
Self-Awareness
Self-Management
Responsible Decision-Making
Social Awareness
Relationship Skills
I love and accept who I am on the inside...
...and know my emotions are nothing to hide.
Life's full of surprises that make me feel different ways.
If I can control myself I'll have much better days.
I understand the choices I make should be what's best for me to do...
...and what happens is on me and not any of you.
I understand others are unique. I want to learn more about everyone I meet.
I want to step into their shoes and see what they are going through.
I am a friend. I support and trust. Working together is a must.
Kind and caring I will be. I listen to you. You listen to me.
What is the best part about being you?
What is something you're good at doing?
Share the last time you were excited about something.
Share how you are feeling about the year so far?
What’s a surprise or something unexpected that happened to you recently?
Pretend you found out you’re going to outer space. How would you feel? Why?
Who is someone you can go to when you’re feeling big emotions?
What are some things that calm you down when you’re upset?
What’s something you’ve done recently that you’re proud of?
What’s a choice you made recently that you wish you could change?
What was a mistake or bad choice you made and what was the result?
How can you take responsibility for a bad choice you made recently?
What’s something that makes you different than your friends?
Tell us something new you’ve learned about someone in the group.
Tell us about a time you helped a friend who was sad. How did you help them?
How do you think it might feel to be the new kid at school?
What makes you a good friend?
Tell us about a team that you’re a part of.
Share something kind you’ve done recently.
Share a time you and a friend listened to each other.
