Kind Words Guidance Lesson 1st/2nd grade

This week in classroom guidance students learned about the importance of using Kind Words. We read a book from the Responsive Counselor called Matteo’s Words. In the book, the elementary school teacher instructs about the difference between kind words (puppy words) and hurtful words (porcupine words).

Students practiced by sorting a few examples of statements into puppy or porcupine words with a movement activity. They also practiced writing or drawing situations where kind words could be used. Most classes had a closing visit from Hunter the Hound!

The age old statement, if you cannot say anything nice, don’t say anything at all was explained by the classroom teacher, Ms. Perez in Matteo’s Words. We also discussed ways to express your dislike of something without hurting someone’s feelings. For example, “I hear that you like that book, but it’s not my favorite.”

To practice at home: When you are watching TV together take time to notice when characters use “puppy” or “Porcupine” words in their dialogue. Ask your child, what could be said differently to turn some porcupine words into puppy words? Are there times that we can apply this lesson everyday?