Adjusting Anna’s Self-Talk

“I adjust to change.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Adjusting Anna

Introduce Anna and her special life skill: navigating changes in life, understanding the feelings that come with new experiences, and developing flexibility and confidence when things don't go as planned. .Talk about how sharing kind words and recognizing positive choices can brighten someone's day.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Anna’s positive self-talk phrase together:

“I adjust to change.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind. Encourage children to use these words throughout the day as they notice kindness and positive choices.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Reporting Roxy's skill sign on your refrigerator, bulletin board, or another place children will see it often.

Revisit the sign throughout the day to help children remember and practice these important life skills.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together. Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Adjusting Anna’s movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Adjusting Anna’s story to life! Read her story with expression and enthusiasm. Let children get to know Anna and discover what she learned about navigating Change.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use the Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to turn and talk with a friend, share with a family member, or reflect quietly.

Help children connect Anna’s experiences to their own lives.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce the lesson.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations. Invite children to become movie stars as they act out what they might say or do.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun.

Powerful You! In The Middle Cookie Game is a fun memory-style matching game designed to help children understand an important message:

Kids are the good stuff in the middle of divorce.

Created for ages 5+ and playable with 2–6 players, this engaging game is played like Concentration while gently opening the door to emotional expression and healing conversations.

Children match:

• Feeling words

• Coping strategies

• Empowering phrases

As they play, they learn to identify emotions, talk about difficult changes, and build resilience.

“Life is like a pickle. Sometimes it’s sweet & sometimes it’s sour.” — Patricia Kienzle

This game helps children recognize “sour pickle” feelings while discovering healthy ways to cope and grow stronger.

Perfect for:

• School counselors

• Teachers

• Parents

• Therapists

• Small groups

• Family support settings

Benefits:

• Encourages communication

• Builds emotional awareness

• Supports children through divorce transitions

• Makes hard conversations easier through play

• Strengthens confidence and connection

Why Families Love It

Easy to learn, meaningful to play, and created with heart, this game reminds every child:

You are the good stuff in the middle.

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Belonging Ben’s Self-Talk

“I belong and contribute.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Belonging Ben

Introduce Belonging Ben and explore what it means to belong and contribute.

Help children understand that everyone has something valuable to offer. Whether at home, in the classroom, or on a team, we can all make a difference by including others, sharing ideas, and helping out.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Ben's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I belong and contribute.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to remember these words when joining a group, trying something new, or looking for ways to help.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Belonging Ben's Team Player Tips somewhere children will see them often.

Explore ways to be a good team player:

• Listen first and speak second.

• Share your ideas.

• Have a CAN-DO attitude.

• Pitch in and help.

• Be open to others' ideas.

• Cheer for others.

• Look for solutions.

Invite children to choose one team player tip to practice each day.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Belonging Ben's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Belonging Ben to life! Read his story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Talk about how Ben discovers the importance of belonging, contributing, and being part of a team.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Ben's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to spark meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share a time they felt included, helped someone, or contributed to a group.

Remind them that everyone has something important to offer.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Ben's lesson.

You can also invite children to choose one of Ben's Team Player Tips and practice it with their family, classmates, or friends.

Afterward, ask: How did your contribution make a difference?

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to act out how they might welcome someone into a game, share an idea, help a teammate, or encourage a friend.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I belong and contribute.”

Changing Charlie’s Self-Talk

“I create change.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Changing Charlie

Introduce Changing Charlie and explore how habits are formed and changed.

Help children understand that habits develop when we do something repeatedly. Some habits help us, while others may get in our way. The good news is that we can learn new habits, one small step at a time!

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Charlie's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I adjust to change.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words when they're working on changing a habit or trying something new.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Changing Charlie's Guide to Changing Habits where children will see it often.

Explore Charlie's reminders:

• Recognize that habits take time to change.

• Notice helpful habits, such as walking, using good manners, and being honest.

• Identify habits you'd like to change.

• Start small and think about what happens because of an old habit.

• Replace the old habit with a new behavior.

• Practice your new behavior.

• Celebrate your self-control!

Remind children of Charlie's encouraging message: “They are a cinch by the inch.”

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Changing Charlie's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Changing Charlie to life! Read his story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Charlie learns about habits, practice, and making positive changes.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Charlie's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to think about a habit they already feel good about and one they'd like to improve.

Help them recognize that changing a habit takes time and practice.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Charlie's lesson.

You can also invite children to choose one small habit they'd like to change. Help them identify a new behavior to practice in its place.

Celebrate their efforts as they make progress!

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to act out replacing an unhelpful habit with a helpful one—for example, raising a hand instead of calling out or using encouraging words instead of negative self-talk.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: Small changes, practiced often, can become powerful habits!

Self-Talk

“I am direct and honest with my words.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Direct Dalia

Introduce Direct Dalia and explore why it's important to speak directly to someone when there's a problem.

Help children understand that talking about someone behind their back can hurt feelings, damage friendships, and create unnecessary drama.

Dalia reminds us that we can solve problems by communicating respectfully with the person involved.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Dalia's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I am direct and honest with my words.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words when they feel tempted to gossip or need courage to have a respectful conversation.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Direct Dalia's Gossip Facts where children will see it often.

Explore what Dalia teaches us about gossip:

• Gossip means talking badly about others.

• Someone who gossips about others may also gossip about you.

• Gossip can be used to put others down.

• Gossip often involves more people and creates drama.

• Gossip goes around a problem instead of directly to the person involved.

Talk about how speaking directly and kindly can help prevent misunderstandings and protect friendships.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Direct Dalia's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Direct Dalia to life! Read her story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Dalia learns about gossip, friendship, and communicating directly.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Dalia's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to talk about how gossip can affect friendships and what they could say when someone starts talking badly about another person.

Help them connect Dalia's message to everyday experiences.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Dalia's lesson.

You can also practice simple phrases children can use to avoid gossip, such as:

• “Let's talk to them about it.”

• “I'd rather not talk about someone who isn't here.”

• “Maybe we should ask what really happened.”

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice what they might say when someone begins gossiping, when a friend feels left out, or when they need to solve a disagreement respectfully.

Remind children that if a situation involves bullying, threats, or danger, they should seek help from a trusted adult rather than handle it alone.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: Go directly to the person, not around them!

Powerful You is a grab-and-go counseling resource designed to make group and classroom counseling simple, meaningful, and effective. Packed with 26 short, easy-to-use themed lessons, this book helps counselors, educators, and support staff guide students through important life topics with confidence and care.

Each lesson begins with a true story that reflects real challenges children face, followed by engaging turn-and-talk prompts that encourage student reflection, discussion, and connection. Inspiring quotes, hands-on activities, and practical tips are also included for optional lesson extensions.

Created by a school counselor with more than 35 years of experience listening to and supporting children, these lessons align with ASCA National Standards and explore sensitive school and home issues through a child’s perspective. Powerful You gives adults ready-to-use tools to build emotional awareness, resilience, communication skills, and confidence in students.

To bring each lesson to life, companion Powerful You laminated role-playing cards and colorful classroom signs are also available separately. These engaging tools correspond with every lesson and provide an interactive way for students to practice skills, deepen understanding, and reinforce key concepts.

Breathe and Stretch on the Beach is an interactive listening and movement game that helps children build focus, confidence, calmness, and self-awareness through playful stretching and positive self-talk. Designed for ages 3 and up, this engaging resource can be used in the classroom, counseling groups, therapy settings, or at home by teachers, counselors, parents, and caregivers.

After learning the beach-themed poses, a leader calls out poses in any order, encouraging participants to listen carefully, move mindfully, and practice deep breathing, stretching, and relaxation. Children stay engaged while developing important social-emotional and self-regulation skills in a fun, active way.

Participants will:

• Understand and practice controlled breathing

• Respect personal space by moving safely without touching others

• Strengthen self-control using nonverbal communication

• Improve focus and attention

• Increase self-awareness

• Replace negative self-talk with positive self-talk

• Build joy, strength, gratitude, and confidence

Each pose is paired with empowering affirmations so children can embody positive mindsets as they move. Examples include:

• Coconut Tree, Eagle, Airplane – I am focused

• Sports Boat, Charge Your Battery, Flying Fish – I am full of energy

• Hurricane – I step aside for others

• Crab – I let my light shine

• Paddleboard – I am responsible for what I say, think, and do

Breathe and Stretch on the Beach is a joyful way to help children move their bodies, calm their minds, and grow strong from the inside out.

This long-sleeve V-neck Pickle Sun Shirt is more than a sun shirt—it’s a playful conversation starter and wearable feelings chart designed for adults who value wellness, mindfulness, and emotional connection.

Simply point to the pickle that matches your mood and say, “Today I feel ________.” It’s a lighthearted way to check in with yourself, communicate with others, and bring more emotional awareness into everyday life.

Perfect for beach days, boating, pickleball, poolside lounging, walks, travel, or casual everyday wear, this shirt blends fun, comfort, and meaning.

Great for:

• Morning mindset check-ins

• Stress awareness

• Family communication

• Classroom or counseling settings

• Group retreats or wellness events

• Playful connection with friends

Keep the fun going by singing the Pickle Feelings Song from the Self-Talk Power Book and celebrate life with your own Pickle Party.

Features:

• Long-sleeve sun coverage

• Flattering V-neck style

• Lightweight comfort

• Unique conversation piece

• Supports mindfulness and emotional wellness

• Great gift idea

A joyful, healthy, and totally unique way to express emotions, spark smiles, and spread positive energy.

Example of the Pickle Song here: https://youtu.be/TM0m5MFIT4U

Wear your feelings. Share your joy. Grab your Pickle Sun Shirt today.

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I ENCOURAGE others.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Encouraging Eddie

Introduce Encouraging Eddie and explore the power of encouraging others.

Help children understand that being a leader isn't just about being in charge. It's about setting a positive example, treating others with respect, and helping people feel confident and capable.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Eddie's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I ENCOURAGE others.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words when someone needs support, is trying something difficult, or could use a little encouragement.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Encouraging Eddie's Leadership Skills where children will see it often.

Explore Eddie's reminder that attitude speaks louder than words.

Practice showing leadership through:

• Body language that says, “I'm enthusiastic.”

• Tone of voice that says, “I am positive.”

• Manners that say, “I respect you.”

• Behavior that says, “I am responsible.”

• Demeanor that says, “I have humility.”

Invite children to choose one leadership skill to practice throughout the day.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Encouraging Eddie's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Encouraging Eddie to life! Read his story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice how Eddie uses encouragement and positive leadership to make a difference.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Eddie's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share a time someone encouraged them. How did it feel?

Talk about how their words, actions, and attitudes can help others feel supported.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Eddie's lesson.

You can also invite children to become Encouragement Detectives!

Challenge them to notice someone making an effort, showing kindness, or trying something new. Encourage them to share a genuine compliment or a few supportive words.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice encouraging a friend who is struggling, cheering for a teammate, welcoming someone new, or showing respect during a disagreement.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I ENCOURAGE others.”

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I FAKE it until I become it.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Faking-It Fran

Introduce Faking-It Fran and explore what it means to build confidence.

Help children understand that confidence doesn't mean never feeling nervous or afraid. It means being yourself, trying new things, and practicing courage even when something feels uncomfortable.

Fran reminds us that we can act with confidence while we're still learning to feel confident.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Fran's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I FAKE it until I become it.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Talk about how we can practice confident behaviors even when we don't feel confident yet. Over time, those behaviors can begin to feel more natural.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Faking-It Fran's Guide to Confidence where children will see it often.

Explore Fran's confidence-building tips:

• Exercise Daily: Get outside, move your body, and feel your heartbeat.

• Get Scared: Try something that feels a little scary or unfamiliar, in a safe way.

• Practice Positive Self-Talk: Tell yourself, “I can do it.”

• Surround Yourself: Spend time with friends who make you feel good.

• Put on Your Swag: Wear something that helps you feel like yourself.

• Create a Power Phrase: Try something like “I Rock!”

Invite children to choose one confidence-building tip to practice.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Faking-It Fran's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Faking-It Fran to life! Read her story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Fran discovers about being herself, trying new things, and growing more confident.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Fran's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share a time they tried something even though they felt nervous or unsure.

Talk about how practicing courage can help confidence grow.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Fran's lesson.

You can also invite children to create their own Power Phrase.

Encourage them to choose a short, positive statement that helps them feel capable, such as “I can do hard things!” or “I've got this!”

Practice saying it with a confident voice and posture.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice introducing themselves to someone new, asking a question in class, trying a new activity, or speaking up when they have an idea.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I FAKE it until I become it.”

Powerful You is a grab-and-go counseling resource designed to make group and classroom counseling simple, meaningful, and effective. Packed with 26 short, easy-to-use themed lessons, this book helps counselors, educators, and support staff guide students through important life topics with confidence and care.

Each lesson begins with a true story that reflects real challenges children face, followed by engaging turn-and-talk prompts that encourage student reflection, discussion, and connection. Inspiring quotes, hands-on activities, and practical tips are also included for optional lesson extensions.

Created by a school counselor with more than 35 years of experience listening to and supporting children, these lessons align with ASCA National Standards and explore sensitive school and home issues through a child’s perspective. Powerful You gives adults ready-to-use tools to build emotional awareness, resilience, communication skills, and confidence in students.

To bring each lesson to life, companion Powerful You laminated role-playing cards and colorful classroom signs are also available separately. These engaging tools correspond with every lesson and provide an interactive way for students to practice skills, deepen understanding, and reinforce key concepts.

Breathe and Stretch on the Beach is an interactive listening and movement game that helps children build focus, confidence, calmness, and self-awareness through playful stretching and positive self-talk. Designed for ages 3 and up, this engaging resource can be used in the classroom, counseling groups, therapy settings, or at home by teachers, counselors, parents, and caregivers.

After learning the beach-themed poses, a leader calls out poses in any order, encouraging participants to listen carefully, move mindfully, and practice deep breathing, stretching, and relaxation. Children stay engaged while developing important social-emotional and self-regulation skills in a fun, active way.

Participants will:

• Understand and practice controlled breathing

• Respect personal space by moving safely without touching others

• Strengthen self-control using nonverbal communication

• Improve focus and attention

• Increase self-awareness

• Replace negative self-talk with positive self-talk

• Build joy, strength, gratitude, and confidence

Each pose is paired with empowering affirmations so children can embody positive mindsets as they move. Examples include:

• Coconut Tree, Eagle, Airplane – I am focused

• Sports Boat, Charge Your Battery, Flying Fish – I am full of energy

• Hurricane – I step aside for others

• Crab – I let my light shine

• Paddleboard – I am responsible for what I say, think, and do

Breathe and Stretch on the Beach is a joyful way to help children move their bodies, calm their minds, and grow strong from the inside out.

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“Every day is a GIFT.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Grateful Gretta

Introduce Grateful Gretta and explore how gratitude helps us notice the good things in our lives.

Help children understand that happiness doesn't always come from big events or special occasions. Sometimes it comes from appreciating simple everyday moments, helping others, and noticing what we already have.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Gretta's positive self-talk phrase together:

“Every day is a GIFT.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words as a reminder to look for something good in each day, even when things don't go exactly as planned.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Grateful Gretta's Happiness Guide where children will see it often.

Explore Gretta's ideas for practicing gratitude and happiness:

• Feel gratitude for three simple things each day.

• Breathe and stretch daily.

• Notice and enjoy nature.

• Smile at older adults.

• Give handmade cards and gifts.

• Use a pleasant voice.

• Appreciate the human body.

• Pitch in without being told.

• Enjoy spending time alone.

• Thank community helpers.

• Help younger children.

Invite children to choose one idea to practice each day.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Grateful Gretta's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Grateful Gretta to life! Read her story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice how Gretta practices gratitude and discovers happiness in everyday experiences.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Gretta's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to name three simple things they're grateful for today.

Talk about how noticing and appreciating everyday gifts can help us feel more connected to ourselves and others.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Gretta's lesson.

You can also create a Gratitude Jar together.

Invite children to write or draw something they're grateful for on a small piece of paper and place it in the jar. Revisit the notes whenever you'd like a reminder of life's everyday gifts.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice thanking someone who helps them, showing appreciation for a family member, noticing something beautiful in nature, or helping someone without being asked.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “Every day is a GIFT.”

Powerful You is a grab-and-go counseling resource designed to make group and classroom counseling simple, meaningful, and effective. Packed with 26 short, easy-to-use themed lessons, this book helps counselors, educators, and support staff guide students through important life topics with confidence and care.

Each lesson begins with a true story that reflects real challenges children face, followed by engaging turn-and-talk prompts that encourage student reflection, discussion, and connection. Inspiring quotes, hands-on activities, and practical tips are also included for optional lesson extensions.

Created by a school counselor with more than 35 years of experience listening to and supporting children, these lessons align with ASCA National Standards and explore sensitive school and home issues through a child’s perspective. Powerful You gives adults ready-to-use tools to build emotional awareness, resilience, communication skills, and confidence in students.

To bring each lesson to life, companion Powerful You laminated role-playing cards and colorful classroom signs are also available separately. These engaging tools correspond with every lesson and provide an interactive way for students to practice skills, deepen understanding, and reinforce key concepts.

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I return items to their HOME.”

How to Use This Lesson

1 Meet Home Organizer Hal

Introduce Home Organizer Hal and explore how staying organized can make everyday life easier. Help children understand that being organized isn't about being perfect. It's about creating simple habits that help us find what we need, take care of our belongings, and feel more prepared for the day.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Hal's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I return items to their HOME.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words when putting away toys, school supplies, clothes, or other belongings.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Home Organizer Hal's Steps to Stay Organized where children will see it often.

Explore Hal's six organizing tips:

• Declutter: Get rid of things that are broken or no longer useful.

• Return: Put items back in their “home” each day.

• Create a Take-Off Zone: Choose a special place for backpacks and school supplies so they're easy to find each morning.

• Prepare Ahead: Lay out clothes the night before.

• Make a Routine: Create a morning and evening routine chart.

• Celebrate You: Reward yourself for staying organized.

Invite children to choose one organizing habit to practice each day.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Home Organizer Hal's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Home Organizer Hal to life! Read his story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Hal learns about taking care of belongings and creating helpful routines.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Hal's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to think about something they often have trouble finding.

Talk about how giving that item a special “home” could make their day easier.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Hal's lesson.

You can also create a **Take-Off

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I INSPIRE others to find their passion.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Inspiring Izzie

Introduce Inspiring Izzie and explore how friendships can help us discover our interests, share our passions, and inspire one another.

Help children understand that being a good friend means being yourself, including others, appreciating differences, and encouraging people to do what they love.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Izzie's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I INSPIRE others to find their passion.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words as a reminder that sharing what they love and supporting others can make a positive difference.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Inspiring Izzie's Friendship Guide where children will see it often.

Explore Izzie's friendship reminders:

• Be Direct: Don't say or text something about someone that you wouldn't say to their face.

• Share What You Love: Talk about your passions and interests with friends.

• Include & Invite: Welcome others into your conversations and activities.

• Sparkle: Be yourself!

• Create New Friendships: Make new friends while keeping the old.

• Be Understanding: Allow friends to have other friendships.

• Be Kind: Look for the goodness in others.

• Use Straight Talk: Handle disagreements without involving unnecessary people.

• Take a Break: It's okay to take some space from a friendship when needed.

• Appreciate Others: Celebrate the differences that make each person unique.

Invite children to choose one friendship skill to practice throughout the day.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Inspiring Izzie's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Inspiring Izzie to life! Read her story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Izzie discovers about friendship, sharing interests, and inspiring others.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Izzie's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share something they love doing. Has a friend ever inspired them to try something new?

Talk about how we can encourage others to explore their own interests and talents.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Izzie's lesson.

You can also try a Share Your Spark activity.

Invite children to share something they're passionate about, such as a hobby, sport, book, or creative activity. Encourage others to listen, ask questions, and celebrate one another's interests.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice welcoming someone into a group, encouraging a friend's interests, resolving a disagreement directly, or showing kindness to someone who is different from them.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I INSPIRE others to find their passion.”

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I look in the mirror before I JUDGE.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Prejudiced Jamal

Introduce Prejudiced Jamal and explore what it means to judge others.

Help children understand that we sometimes form opinions about people without knowing their stories. Jamal reminds us to look at ourselves first, recognize our own assumptions, and treat others with understanding and respect.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Jamal's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I look in the mirror before I JUDGE.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words when they notice themselves making assumptions about someone or focusing on another person's differences.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Prejudiced Jamal's Reasons NOT to Judge Others where children will see it often.

Explore Jamal's five important reminders:

• First, Look in the Mirror: Sometimes the things we notice or dislike in others are things we recognize in ourselves.

• You Haven't Walked in Their Shoes: We don't always know the challenges or experiences someone else has faced.

• We Are More Alike Than Different: We all have feelings, needs, hopes, and dreams.

• There May Be Hidden Disabilities: Someone may be facing challenges we cannot see or fully understand.

• Save Your Energy: Instead of spending energy judging others, focus on gratitude and understanding.

Invite children to choose one reminder to practice throughout the day.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Prejudiced Jamal's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Prejudiced Jamal to life! Read his story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Jamal learns about judging others, understanding differences, and looking at himself before forming opinions about someone else.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Jamal's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to think about a time someone misunderstood them or made an assumption without knowing the whole story.

Talk about how it feels to be judged and how we can show more understanding toward others.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Jamal's lesson.

You can also try a Walk in Their Shoes activity.

Present a simple everyday situation, such as a child sitting alone at lunch or someone having difficulty completing an assignment.

Invite children to imagine several possible reasons for the situation rather than jumping to conclusions.

Remind them that we don't always know what someone else is experiencing.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice welcoming someone who seems different, responding kindly to someone who is struggling, or asking questions instead of making assumptions.

Encourage children to pause, consider another person's perspective, and choose understanding over judgment.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I look in the mirror before I JUDGE.”

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I spread KINDNESS.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Kind Karen

Introduce Kind Karen and explore the power of kind words and thoughtful actions.

Help children understand that kindness doesn't have to be something big. A friendly greeting, an invitation to join a group, or a simple offer to help can make someone feel welcomed, appreciated, and cared for.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Karen's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I spread KINDNESS.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words as a reminder that they have opportunities to spread kindness throughout the day.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Kind Karen's Kind Words where children will see it often.

Explore Karen's examples of kindness:

• “Thank you for helping me.”

• “You may go ahead of me.”

• “Have an amazing day!”

• “Would you like to sit with us at lunch?”

• “I'll hold the door open for you.”

• “Here is a tissue for you.”

• “Can I help you carry that?”

• “I'm sorry. It was an accident.”

• “Excuse me, please.”

Invite children to choose one kind phrase to practice each day.

Talk about how our words can help others feel respected, included, and valued.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Kind Karen's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

[Keep Karen's existing movement video]

5. Read the Story

Bring Kind Karen to life! Read her story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice how Karen uses kind words and thoughtful actions to make a positive difference.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Karen's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share a time someone spoke kindly to them. How did those words make them feel?

Talk about how even small acts of kindness can brighten someone's day.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Karen's lesson.

You can also try a Kind Words Challenge.

Invite children to choose three phrases from Karen's skill sign and look for opportunities to use them throughout the day.

At the end of the day, reflect on how it felt to share kindness with others.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice welcoming someone to their lunch table, offering to help a friend, apologizing for an accident, or thanking someone for their kindness.

Encourage children to notice how their facial expressions, tone of voice, and actions can make their words even more meaningful.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I spread KINDNESS.”

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I LISTEN to others.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Listening Lucy

Introduce Listening Lucy and explore the importance of listening to others and listening to ourselves.

Help children understand that listening is more than hearing words. It means giving someone our attention, trying to understand their feelings, and making space for what they have to say.

Lucy also reminds us that when we become quiet and calm, we can listen to our inner voice to help us make thoughtful choices.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Lucy's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I LISTEN to others.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words when someone is speaking, sharing a feeling, or telling a story.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Listening Lucy's 2 Types of Listening where children will see it often.

Explore Lucy's two important listening skills:

Listening to Others

• Listen with your heart. Listen to understand.

• Stop what you're doing when someone is speaking to you.

• Remember that listening can be more helpful than immediately sharing your opinion.

• Ask thoughtful questions that invite others to share their stories.

• Listen for feelings, not just words.

Listening to Your Internal Voice

• Take time to become quiet and calm.

• Notice the thoughts and feelings within you.

• Listen to the inner voice that can help you make good choices.

Invite children to practice both kinds of listening throughout the day.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Listening Lucy's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

Invite them to become quiet for a moment and notice what they hear around them and how they feel inside.

5. Read the Story

Bring Listening Lucy to life! Read her story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Lucy learns about listening to others and paying attention to her own inner voice.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Lucy's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share a time someone really listened to them. How did it feel?

Talk about how listening carefully can help us understand others and build stronger connections.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Lucy's lesson.

You can also try a Listening With Your Heart activity.

Invite one person to share something about their day while the other listens without interrupting.

Afterward, encourage the listener to share what they heard and ask one thoughtful question.

Switch roles so everyone has a chance to speak and be heard.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice listening when a friend shares a problem, when someone has a different opinion, or when a family member needs their attention.

Practice stopping, listening for feelings, and asking thoughtful questions before responding.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I use MANNERS to show respect.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Mannerly Mike

Introduce Mannerly Mike and explore how good manners help us show respect for ourselves and others.

Help children understand that manners are more than saying “please” and “thank you.” They're also about being considerate, respecting personal space, taking care of shared spaces, and helping others feel comfortable and valued.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Mike's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I use MANNERS to show respect.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words as a reminder to show respect through their words, actions, and everyday choices.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Mannerly Mike's Manners Matters sign where children will see it often.

Explore Mike's five areas of good manners:

School Manners

Classroom Manners.

Playground Manners

Cafeteria Manners

Hygiene Manners

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Mannerly Mike's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Mannerly Mike to life! Read his story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Mike learns about manners, respect, and being considerate of others.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Mike's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share a time someone showed them good manners. How did it make them feel?

Talk about how small, respectful actions can make home, school, and community spaces more pleasant for everyone.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Mike's lesson.

You can also try a Manners Matter Challenge.

Invite children to choose one setting from Mike's skill sign—school, classroom, playground, cafeteria, or hygiene—and practice three helpful habits.

At the end of the day, talk about what they noticed and celebrate their efforts.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice holding a door for someone, asking politely to borrow an item, including someone in a game, waiting patiently in line, or showing good table manners.

Encourage children to notice how their tone of voice, body language, and actions communicate respect.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I use MANNERS to show respect.”

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I NOTICE, name and let go of worries.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Noticing Naima

Introduce Noticing Naima and explore how noticing our thoughts and feelings can help us manage worries.

Help children understand that everyone experiences worries sometimes. Naima reminds us that we can notice a worry, give it a name, and use our breath to help our bodies feel calmer.

We don't have to make every worry disappear. We can learn ways to respond to our worries with greater awareness and confidence.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Naima's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I NOTICE, name and let go of worries.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words when they notice a worried thought or uncomfortable feeling.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Noticing Naima's Breathing Guide where children will see it often.

Explore Naima's breathing steps:

• Sit Tall: Plant your feet on the ground and press your sit bones into your chair.

• Relax Your Shoulders: Draw your shoulders away from your ears and gently tuck your chin.

• Breathe In: Close your lips and breathe in through your nose to a count of four.

• Breathe Out: Slowly exhale through your nose to a count of eight.

• Fill and Empty Your Lungs: Notice the movement of your breath as you inhale and exhale.

• Practice Regularly: Naima suggests practicing eight to ten times daily.

Encourage children to breathe gently and comfortably. Shorten the counts if needed, and never force or hold the breath.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Noticing Naima's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

Invite them to pause and notice whether their breathing, thoughts, or feelings have changed.

5. Read the Story

Bring Noticing Naima to life! Read her story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Naima discovers about worries, breathing, and paying attention to her thoughts and feelings.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Naima's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share where they notice worries in their bodies. Do they feel butterflies in their stomach, tight shoulders, or a faster heartbeat?

Talk about how noticing these signals can remind us to pause and breathe.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Naima's lesson.

You can also try a Notice, Name, and Breathe activity.

Invite children to pause and notice a worry or feeling. Help them give it a simple name, such as “I'm nervous” or “I'm worried about tomorrow.”

Then practice a few comfortable breaths together.

Remind children that feelings can change, and they can ask a trusted adult for help whenever they need it.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice noticing worries before a test, meeting someone new, trying an unfamiliar activity, or speaking in front of others.

Encourage them to pause, name what they're feeling, and practice a calming breath before deciding what to do next.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I NOTICE, name and let go of worries.”

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I live life full ON.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Optimistic Oreda

Introduce Optimistic Oreda and explore how the words we choose can shape the way we approach challenges.

Help children understand that being optimistic doesn't mean everything always goes our way. It means recognizing difficulties while believing we can keep learning, trying, and moving forward.

Oreda reminds us that even small changes in our words can help us see new possibilities.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Oreda's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I live life full ON.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words as a reminder to approach life with curiosity, courage, and a willingness to try.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Optimistic Oreda's Positive Words where children will see it often.

Explore three powerful words and phrases that can help us think more positively:

• Anyway: Choose to take a helpful action even when something feels difficult.

• Even Though: Acknowledge a challenge while remembering that we still have choices.

• Yet: Remind yourself that learning and growing take time.

Practice Oreda's examples together:

• “Even though I didn't do well on a test, I will try again.”

• “Even though I didn't get chosen for the award, I will be happy for the other person.”

• “I don't like writing, but I'm going to do it anyway.”

• “I can't get along with those girls, but I am going to be nice anyway.”

• “I don't understand math...YET.”

Invite children to choose one of these expressions and practice using it throughout the day.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Optimistic Oreda's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Optimistic Oreda to life! Read her story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice how Oreda uses positive words to approach challenges and discover new possibilities.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Oreda's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share something they're still learning or something that hasn't gone the way they hoped.

Talk about how adding the word “yet” or choosing to try “anyway” can help them see a challenge differently.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Oreda's lesson.

You can also try a Positive Words Makeover activity.

Invite children to think of a discouraging statement, such as “I can't do this.”

Then practice changing it using one of Oreda's expressions:

“I can't do this...YET!”

Encourage children to create their own positive statements and practice saying them throughout the day.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice responding to a disappointing grade, not being chosen for a team, struggling with a new skill, or facing an activity they don't enjoy.

Encourage them to use “anyway,” “even though,” or “yet” to practice a more optimistic response.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I live life full ON.”

Powerful You is a grab-and-go counseling resource designed to make group and classroom counseling simple, meaningful, and effective. Packed with 26 short, easy-to-use themed lessons, this book helps counselors, educators, and support staff guide students through important life topics with confidence and care.

Each lesson begins with a true story that reflects real challenges children face, followed by engaging turn-and-talk prompts that encourage student reflection, discussion, and connection. Inspiring quotes, hands-on activities, and practical tips are also included for optional lesson extensions.

Created by a school counselor with more than 35 years of experience listening to and supporting children, these lessons align with ASCA National Standards and explore sensitive school and home issues through a child’s perspective. Powerful You gives adults ready-to-use tools to build emotional awareness, resilience, communication skills, and confidence in students.

To bring each lesson to life, companion Powerful You laminated role-playing cards and colorful classroom signs are also available separately. These engaging tools correspond with every lesson and provide an interactive way for students to practice skills, deepen understanding, and reinforce key concepts.

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I TRY different solutions.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Tenacious Tim

Introduce Tenacious Tim and explore how trying different solutions can help us solve everyday problems.

Help children understand that not every problem has an easy answer. Sometimes our first idea doesn't work, and that's okay!

Tim reminds us to stay flexible, think about our choices, and keep trying until we find a helpful solution.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Tim's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I TRY different solutions.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words when they face a challenge, disagreement, or problem they aren't sure how to solve.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Tenacious Tim's Problem Solving Strategies where children will see it often.

Explore Tim's different ways to solve problems:

• Share: Find a way for everyone to enjoy something.

• Trade: Exchange items or activities when both people agree.

• Apologize: Take responsibility when you've made a mistake.

• Ignore: Choose not to respond to minor attention-seeking behavior when it's safe to do so.

• Keep / Start / Stop: Talk about what is working, what could begin, and what needs to change.

• Pause / Breathe / Relax: Give yourself time to think before responding.

• Rock, Paper, Scissors or Flip a Coin: Use a fair way to make a small decision.

• Get Help: Ask someone to help solve the problem.

• Take Turns: Give everyone a chance.

• Talk Calmly: Use a respectful voice to explain your thoughts.

• Use Humor: Find a lighthearted way to ease tension when appropriate.

• Walk Away: Take space when a situation is becoming upsetting.

• Talk to a Parent or Trusted Adult: Ask for guidance and support.

Use “I” Statements

Tim also teaches children how to explain their feelings and ask for what they need:

“I feel ______ when you ______.”

“Would you please ______?”

For example:

“I feel frustrated when you take my things without asking. Would you please ask me first?”

Invite children to choose two or three strategies to practice throughout the day.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Tenacious Tim's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

Talk about how taking a calming breath can help us think more clearly when facing a problem.

5. Read the Story

Bring Tenacious Tim to life! Read his story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Tim learns about solving problems, staying flexible, and trying different approaches.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Tim's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share a time their first solution didn't work. What did they try next?

Talk about how being willing to try something different can help us become more confident problem-solvers.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Tim's lesson.

You can also try a Pick a Solution activity.

Present a simple everyday problem, such as two children wanting the same toy or friends disagreeing about which game to play.

Invite children to choose three possible solutions from Tim's sign.

Talk about which solution might work best and why.

Remind children that if one solution doesn't work, they can try another!

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice sharing, taking turns, apologizing, calmly expressing their feelings, or asking an adult for help.

Encourage them to use Tim's “I” statements and explore more than one possible solution.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I TRY different solutions.”

Self-Talk Power – When You’re in a Pickle is an empowering story that helps children understand how thoughts influence feelings, choices, and outcomes. Perfect for ages 8 and up, this relatable book introduces readers to Polly Pickle, a character who feels stuck in a frustrating cycle of the same negative thoughts, the same unpleasant emotions, and the same repeated actions.

When Polly realizes she is trapped in a “pickle,” she learns how to recognize unhelpful thinking patterns and retrain her brain through positive self-talk. As she changes her thoughts, she begins to make stronger choices, build confidence, and create better results.

This engaging story gives children practical tools for emotional growth while teaching the power of mindset, resilience, and personal responsibility. It is a valuable resource for parents, counselors, educators, and anyone supporting children through challenges.

Included in the book:

• A relatable story that teaches the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behavior

• A 5-Step Problem-Solving Guide to help children work through challenges

• Two printable charts to identify habitual thought patterns

• A sequential planning tool to help children move forward with confidence

• Strategies for building resilience and positive thinking habits

Self-Talk Power – When You’re in a Pickle helps children discover that when they change their inner voice, they can change their life.

Powerful You is a grab-and-go counseling resource designed to make group and classroom counseling simple, meaningful, and effective. Packed with 26 short, easy-to-use themed lessons, this book helps counselors, educators, and support staff guide students through important life topics with confidence and care.

Each lesson begins with a true story that reflects real challenges children face, followed by engaging turn-and-talk prompts that encourage student reflection, discussion, and connection. Inspiring quotes, hands-on activities, and practical tips are also included for optional lesson extensions.

Created by a school counselor with more than 35 years of experience listening to and supporting children, these lessons align with ASCA National Standards and explore sensitive school and home issues through a child’s perspective. Powerful You gives adults ready-to-use tools to build emotional awareness, resilience, communication skills, and confidence in students.

To bring each lesson to life, companion Powerful You laminated role-playing cards and colorful classroom signs are also available separately. These engaging tools correspond with every lesson and provide an interactive way for students to practice skills, deepen understanding, and reinforce key concepts.

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I QUIET myself.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Quieting Quin

Introduce Quieting Quin and explore how we can recognize stress and discover simple ways to feel calmer.

Help children understand that everyone feels stressed or overwhelmed sometimes. Quin reminds us that we can learn to recognize when we need a break and choose helpful ways to care for ourselves.

Finding calm doesn't mean ignoring our feelings. It means giving ourselves time and space to respond to them.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Quin's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I QUIET myself.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words when they notice themselves feeling stressed, overwhelmed, frustrated, or restless.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Quieting Quin's Instant Stress Relievers where children will see it often.

Explore Quin's twelve ways to manage stress:

• Journal Your Thoughts: Write or draw your feelings.

• Go to a Calming Corner: Find a quiet place to rest and recharge.

• Breathe and Stretch: Stretch your arms overhead and take a few comfortable breaths.

• Use Positive Self-Talk: Get a drink of water and remind yourself, “I am calm.”

• Lighten Up: Ask yourself, “What's the worst thing that could happen?” and consider how you might handle it.

• Talk to a Friend: Share your troubles with someone you trust.

• Have a Good Laugh: Find something funny to enjoy.

• Help Someone: Notice how helping others can lift your spirits.

• Give a Hug: Share a hug with someone close to you who welcomes it.

• Flow with Life: Practice adjusting when plans or circumstances change.

• Eat Mindfully: Slow down and appreciate each bite of your snack.

• Walk Mindfully: Take a walk and notice the beauty of nature.

Remind them that different strategies work for different people and situations.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Quieting Quin's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

Invite them to pause and notice any changes in their breathing, energy, or feelings.

5. Read the Story

Bring Quieting Quin to life! Read Quin's story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Quin discovers about managing stress, finding calm, and choosing helpful ways to feel better.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Quin's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to share what stress feels like in their bodies. Do they notice tight shoulders, a busy mind, a stomachache, or difficulty sitting still?

Talk about which of Quin's calming strategies might help them when these feelings arise.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Quin's lesson.

You can also create a My Calm Toolbox activity.

Invite children to choose three favorite strategies from Quin's sign.

Have them write or draw each strategy on a card and keep the cards in a small box or envelope.

When stressful moments arise, children can choose a tool from their collection and practice using it.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice what they might do when they feel overwhelmed by homework, disappointed about a change in plans, frustrated with a friend, or nervous about something new.

Encourage them to notice how they feel, pause, and choose a calming strategy from Quin's sign.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I QUIET myself.”

Reporting Roxy helps children discover the importance of noticing and sharing the good things happening around them. Kids explore how recognizing kindness, celebrating positive choices, and acknowledging others can create a more encouraging and caring environment.

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I report the goodness in others.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Reporting Roxy

Introduce Roxy and her special life skill: noticing and reporting the goodness in others. Talk about how sharing kind words and recognizing positive choices can brighten someone's day.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Roxy's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I report the goodness in others.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind. Encourage children to use these words throughout the day as they notice kindness and positive choices.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Reporting Roxy's skill sign on your refrigerator, bulletin board, or another place children will see it often.

Review Roxy's three reporting rules together: Report danger. Report bullying. Report the goodness in others.

Revisit the sign throughout the day to help children remember and practice these important life skills.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together. Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Reporting Roxy's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

5. Read the Story

Bring Reporting Roxy to life! Read her story with expression and enthusiasm. Let children get to know Roxy and discover what she learned about reporting danger, recognizing bullying, and noticing the goodness in others.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use the Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to turn and talk with a friend, share with a family member, or reflect quietly.

Help children connect Roxy's experiences to their own lives.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce the lesson.

For Reporting Roxy, try the Report or Tattle? activity. Children explore everyday situations and decide whether they should report the behavior or work toward solving a small problem independently.

Remember Roxy's three important rules: Report danger. Report bullying. Report the goodness in others.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations. Invite children to become movie stars as they act out what they might say or do.

Practice recognizing kindness, reporting unsafe situations, and asking a trusted adult for help when needed.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun.

Try Reporting Roxy for Free!

Ready to put these life skills into practice?

Download Reporting Roxy's story, printable skill sign, reflection questions, and activities. Everything you need to begin sharing meaningful conversations and practicing important life skills with children.

Simple to use. Meaningful to share.

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POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I STAND up for others and myself.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Stand Up Stella

Introduce Stand Up Stella and explore what it means to stand up for yourself and others.

Help children understand that everyone deserves to feel safe, included, and respected. Stella reminds us that we can use our words, make thoughtful choices, and ask trusted adults for help when someone is being unkind.

Standing up for yourself doesn't mean being mean in return. It means responding with courage, kindness, and confidence.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Stella's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I STAND up for others and myself.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words as a reminder that their voices matter and that they can help make their homes, classrooms, and communities kinder places.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Stand Up Stella's Behavior Guide where children will see it often.

Explore Stella's four steps for handling unkind behavior:

1. Say “Stop”

In a kind but firm voice, tell the other person to stop the unkind behavior.

2. Give a Warning

If the behavior continues, say, “If you don't stop, I'm going to report you to a teacher or adult.”

3. Report

If the unkind behavior continues, tell a teacher or trusted adult what is happening.

4. Continue Reporting

If the problem isn't resolved, keep asking for help. Speak with a school counselor, principal, assistant principal, or another trusted adult until someone helps address the situation.

Remind children that if they feel unsafe, are threatened, or witness serious bullying, they should seek adult help immediately rather than trying these steps on their own.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Stand Up Stella's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

Talk about how pausing and taking a calming breath can help us speak clearly and confidently during difficult situations.

5. Read the Story

Bring Stand Up Stella to life! Read her story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Stella learns about standing up for herself, helping others, and seeking support when someone is being unkind.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Stella's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to think about a time they saw someone being treated unkindly. What could they say or do to help?

Talk about the difference between standing up for someone and responding with more unkindness.

Remind children that asking an adult for help is a strong and responsible choice.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Stella's lesson.

You can also try a Strong and Kind Voice activity.

Invite children to practice saying “Stop, please,” “That's not okay,” or “I'm going to ask an adult for help.”

Encourage them to use a calm, clear voice and confident body language.

Practice together so the words feel more familiar when they're needed.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice what they might do when someone is teasing a classmate, excluding another child, taking belongings without permission, or repeatedly saying something hurtful.

Encourage them to practice speaking up when it's safe, supporting others, and asking a trusted adult for help.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I STAND up for others and myself.”

POSITIVE SELF-TALK

“I am UNMOVED by negative peer pressure.”

How to Use This Lesson

1. Meet Unmovable Uriel

Introduce Unmovable Uriel and explore how peer pressure can influence our choices.

Help children understand that sometimes friends or classmates may encourage us to do something that doesn't feel right.

Uriel reminds us that we can trust ourselves, stand by our values, and make positive choices even when others disagree.

Being unmovable doesn't mean being stubborn. It means having the confidence to make decisions that are right for us.

2. Practice Positive Self-Talk

Say Uriel's positive self-talk phrase together:

“I am UNMOVED by negative peer pressure.”

First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.

Encourage children to use these words when they feel pressured to do something unsafe, unkind, or against their values.

3. Share the Skill Sign

Print and display Unmovable Uriel's Peer Pressure Tips where children will see it often.

Explore Uriel's six strategies for handling peer pressure:

• Stand Tall: Stand confidently and make eye contact when comfortable.

• Share Your Feelings: Tell others how you feel about the situation.

• Believe in Yourself: Remember your power within and trust your ability to make good choices.

• Be Unmovable: Practice saying “No” clearly and confidently.

• Walk Away: Leave a situation when someone continues pressuring you.

• Choose Positive Friends: Spend time with people who encourage you to make healthy, helpful choices.

Talk about the difference between negative peer pressure, which encourages harmful choices, and positive peer pressure, which inspires us to do something good.

Invite children to choose one strategy to practice throughout the day.

4. Breathe and Stretch

Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.

Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Unmovable Uriel's movement video.

Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.

Talk about how pausing and breathing can help us feel more grounded when we're unsure what to do.

5. Read the Story

Bring Unmovable Uriel to life! Read his story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.

Invite children to notice what Uriel learns about peer pressure, believing in himself, and making choices that reflect his values.

6. Reflect and Connect

Use Uriel's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.

Invite children to think about a time they felt pressured to do something they didn't want to do.

Talk about how it feels when others respect our choices and how we can show that same respect to our friends.

7. Explore Optional Activities

Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Uriel's lesson.

You can also try a Practice Saying No activity.

Invite children to practice a few simple responses to peer pressure:

• “No, thank you.”

• “That's not for me.”

• “I'm not comfortable doing that.”

• “I'd rather do something else.”

• “I'm going to walk away.”

Encourage children to practice saying these words in a calm, confident voice.

Remind them that they can always ask a trusted adult for help if they feel unsafe or pressured.

8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play

Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!

Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.

Invite children to practice what they might do when friends encourage them to break a rule, exclude someone, make fun of another child, or participate in something that doesn't feel right.

Encourage them to stand confidently, express their feelings, say no, walk away, or ask a trusted adult for support.

Also practice examples of positive peer pressure, such as encouraging a friend to include someone or make a healthy choice.

Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!

Remember: “I am UNMOVED by negative peer pressure.”