How to Practice Positive Thinking in Kindergarten: SEL Activity

In the face of challenging tasks, it's natural to feel overwhelmed and tempted to give up. However, succumbing to these negative thoughts can hinder progress and lead to further obstacles. Instead of falling into the trap of defeatism, it's essential to reframe one’s negative mindset. Replace self-limiting statements such as:

"I can't do it" with "I can and I will" or "I will try my best."

"I am not good enough" with "I am enough."

"I am not strong" with "I am strong" or "I will strive to be strong."

By consciously replacing negative thoughts with empowering ones, one can unlock their full potential and cultivate a mindset of resilience and determination.

In this kindergarten lesson, students learn the essential skills of positive thinking and self-management. Through an interactive puppet play and an educational activity, the lesson imparts that positive thoughts can help students to think clearly, increase mental focus, and find solutions to presented problems.

Picks-It Raccoon and Nix-It Panda star in the puppet play. Here, Picks-It reiterates that positive thinking can help students become their best selves and aid them in their social-emotional learning journey to Castle Self-Concept. Nix-It then shares his experience with the previous challenges, where his thoughts motivate him to keep going. After getting rid of his negative thoughts, he finds things to start going better again.

After the puppet show, a fun classroom activity ensues. Kindergarten students play the game "Make the World Go ‘Round," but with a delightful twist. When the leader steps in front of a classmate and the world momentarily stops, the classmate responds with a positive thought. Doing so can make the world get going again.

What this SEL activity aims to achieve is to fill students' minds with positive thoughts. In doing so, kindergartners learn to shift their mindset away from negativity. They also empower themselves to counteract negative thoughts with affirmations that promote self-belief and resilience. With this game, students can begin to realize that their way of thinking holds the key to shaping their experiences and influencing their behavior.

In conclusion, teaching kindergartners to embrace positive thinking encourages them to take on challenges, persevere through difficulties, and grow both personally and academically. Through this effective lesson, schools and educators can remind them that thoughts have the power to shape their reality and that choosing positivity can pave the way for success and personal fulfillment.