Vary instructional strategies to develop the whole brain. Provide youth multiple sources of input including books, videos, lectures, discussions, visuals, stories and songs. Allow youth multiple avenues of output and…
This is more than just hearing what someone else is saying. Active listening builds trust and ensures that the other person in a conversation knows they are being heard. It…
Encourage individuals to perform a kind and selfless act for another person, be it someone known or unknown, with the only purpose being to brighten or improve the recipient’s day…
A fun and physical activity that encourages teamwork and collaboration. You will need an even number of youth to participate, ideally close to 10. Find a straight line on the…
An activity for “peace within and between” that focuses on negative self-talk, negative thoughts and statements about others, and complaining. A good idea is to have youth commit to this…
Using bigger than, less than, or equal signs, role-play different scenarios the youth face on a day to day basis to evaluate whether or not a situation feels “equal.” If…
An idea born in 2006 that works very well with young children, in which a bucket represents your mental and emotional self. When your bucket is full, you feel confident,…
Create laminated pictures or drawings of various needs and wants, or have the items on hand. Have youth toss the items in a “want” bucket and a “need” bucket. Once…
A simple idea to eliminate loneliness and isolation and foster friendship and inclusion on the playground or in any public space. They work best when the bench is clearly identified…
It is really important to celebrate both small and large successes, honor the people involved, maintain momentum, and continue to inspire improvement. Remember to build celebrations into your budget and…
Revisit an event that ended with a less than desirable outcome. Encourage youth to create their own alternative endings. Why did they make the choices that they made? How have…
Establish age appropriate shared jobs that rotate throughout the year and that will help build the classroom or home environment. Create a classroom or family chore chart that presents the…