Pre-K SEL: How to Lighten Up and Be Positive With the Truth

Look at the bright side of things and lighten up! This is what Mimi, the hedgehog puppet, tells Squeak, her puppet friend, because he is worried sick to go to the dentist in this lesson’s puppet show. Squeak is making up sad or bad things in his head that are just not there. Mimi helps him think and tell himself the truth that going to the dentist is a positive and funny thing. He is taking care of his teeth, smile, and health. Plus, it is going to be funny to see his mouth wide open. Squeak learns to lighten up.

In this SEL lesson, pre-kindergartners learn to be positive by focusing on the truth and lightening up. An elaborate class discussion follows the puppet play, and it helps the students understand how self-honesty can help them to lighten up. The lesson concepts are reinforced with an SEL activity that allows the students to practice lightening up by sharing their stories and having a laugh together as a positive class.

Pre-kindergartners are good at expressing their emotions, especially their fears and worries. As they still learn and explore their world, they may encounter unfamiliar things that can cause concern. Although this is valid, leaving their worries unchecked can hinder their daily functioning and prevent them from trying new things. That is why it is important for them to learn how to lighten up.

Lightening up or not taking things seriously all the time is a great coping mechanism that keeps positive thoughts and attitudes on top of negative ones. Maintaining a positive mindset can keep them grounded in reality and help them strive for success.

To help pre-kindergartners to lighten up, this lesson teaches them to be honest with themselves. By practicing self-honesty, they can remind themselves that there is nothing to worry about and that it is okay to have a little fun.