Student Wellbeing

Friendship Groups- Positive Self Talk

This week, students have been learning about the power of positive self-talk and how the words we say to ourselves can influence our confidence, resilience, and willingness to try new things.

We explored how our first thoughts can sometimes be negative when we find something difficult. Students discussed common thoughts such as, "I can't do this," "I'm not good at this," or "Everyone else is better than me." Together, we learned that while these thoughts are normal, we can choose to reframe them into more helpful and encouraging messages.

Students practised changing negative thoughts into positive ones by using phrases such as:

• "I can try."
• "This is an opportunity to learn."
• "I can do hard things."
• "I am proud of myself for trying."
• "It's okay to make mistakes."
• "I can ask for help if I need it."

We also learned about the powerful "Yet" Rule. By adding the word yet to the end of a challenging thought, students can develop a growth mindset. For example, "I can't do this" becomes "I can't do this yet."

Through role-playing and discussion, students practised positive self-talk in everyday situations, such as losing a game, making a mistake in maths, finding reading difficult, or not receiving an award they hoped for. We discovered that it is often easier to encourage a friend than ourselves, so students were encouraged to think about what they would say to a friend and then use those same kind words for themselves.

Positive self-talk is an important life skill that helps children develop resilience, confidence, and a willingness to keep trying when things are challenging. We encourage families to continue these conversations at home by asking your child what positive words they can say to themselves when they face a challenge.

Here are some pictures of posters with affirmations we made to stick up at home! You may like to make one of these as a family at home!