Lesson #1

Discuss the difference between Tattling vs. Asking for help

We read the story “Tattletale” by Lynn Downey and discussed that safety is always the primary goal.

Here are the definitions we discussed in class:

Tattling is when you trying to get kids IN trouble when they aren’t hurting themselves or other.

Asking for help is when you’re trying to help keep kids OUT of trouble because they may get hurt (or they are hurt).

If someone could get hurt, REPORT!
It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

We brainstormed incidents where people need to report like if there is an accident or people are using hurtful talk and hurtful touch.

Also we discussed specific trusted adults children can go to and report incidents of safety.

Lastly, we discussed how to handle the discomfort and manage our own emotions when people are doing something that makes us uncomfortable. Taking deep breaths and using an are some tools that can be helpful “I Statement”.

I-Statements

I-Statements are a clear way to communicating with out making people feel defensive because we try to avoid using the word “you”.  People receiving the I-Statements are more willing to receive the feedback and think about changing their behaviour. I-statements need to be sincere, in a normal tone of voice and respectfully given.

Template:

I noticed that ______________________. I need __________________.

I feel __________ when ____________. I need ___________________.

Examples:

I noticed that noses were touched and hands were not washed. I need people to wash hands to stop germs from spreading.

I feel upset when people call me that name. I need people to use my name.

 

It takes time to practice new forms of communication. Let’s take time to practice and model this form of communication.