The Social Skill of Positive Communication: SEL for Pre-K

It is common for pre-kindergartners to call each other negative names. But, that’s only because they don’t know what positive communication is yet! Now, it’s time for them to learn the art of positive communication and how to interact with others in a healthy way.

The story titled "We Can All Get Along" opens this lesson to show the students why positive communication is important. It uses the perspective of the characters, Droid, Dude, and Mama Amore, to successfully present how communicating positively helps them to get along with others.

In the story, Droid and Dude are calling each other hurtful names until they feel bad about themselves. Mama Amore helps them flip their negative feelings by teaching them to use good words and good voices and to tell the truth. She also teaches them more ways to practice positive communication, which she says is called "Happy Talk." The story ends with Droid and Dude finally feeling good about themselves. The “Droid,” “Dude,” and “Mama Amore” visual aids are posted for this.

Afterward, the "Code of Conduct" poster is displayed, then a fun and interactive discussion takes place. It reinforces the concepts, and it allows the students to understand how positive communication makes them feel.

To practice, the class participates in an SEL activity that allows them to communicate positively with their classmates. Then, their teacher shows them another educational finger play. The lesson ends with the students promising to always practice Happy Talk and marking their Positive Behavior Chart.

Social interactions and relationship-building are primarily accomplished through language and communication. Therefore, having excellent communication skills, such as knowing how to use positive and empathetic language, is essential. Positive communication creates a safe and nurturing environment where words of encouragement and sympathy motivate one to continue striving for success.

Pre-kindergartners, in their journey of self-discovery, flourish in an environment where positive communication is encouraged. To find such an environment, they need to learn to create it themselves by learning to use positive language in their classrooms, circles of friends, and homes.

To help pre-kindergartners form healthy relationships and create positive social environments, this lesson teaches them the art and value of positive communication, as well as how to get along with others.