Pre-K SEL Lesson: How to Take Responsibility and Not Blame Others

Step into the classroom with Kayla, a young student struggling to accept responsibility for her actions. In the story, "Blaming Others Is Not Allowed," Kayla finds herself forgetting many essential items—her lunch, permission slip, and swimming attire. But instead of owning up to her forgetfulness, she blames others for her mistakes. That’s when Mr. Jazzman sings her a song that reminds her to refuse blaming others.

A relatable and interactive class discussion takes place after the story. This allows the teacher to elaborate more on the lesson concepts of accepting responsibility and refusing to blame others. The students learn accepting responsibility for their actions is a way to be honest to themselves.

As a reinforcement, the class sings a Mr. Jazzman song. It helps them learn that accepting responsibility improves their self-concept. To end the lesson, the students promise to practice this valuable lesson and mark their Positive Behavior Chart to track their progress toward self-honesty.

It’s easy for pre-kindergartners to blame others to avoid negative consequences or protect their self-esteem. However, refusing to take ownership for their actions can only impede their development and cause further damage to how they view themselves. When individuals blame others, they miss out on the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and improve their behavior. Instead of building a positive self-concept, they end up worsening it by directing their negative thoughts toward others and taking the negative action of blaming them for their actions.

Fortunately, schools and teachers can help improve the behavior and self-concept of their pre-kindergarten students by teaching this valuable lesson on self-honesty through accepting responsibility. Its age-appropriate lesson materials and strategies can help students have an enjoyable and effective learning experience.