Students draw a card, then give a positive shout-out to a classmate using the prompt.
Continue until everyone has both given and received a shout-out.
Step 5
Reflection and Closure
5 minutes
Ask students to write one action they will take this week to foster belonging on a post-it note.
Students place notes on the “Belonging Goals” board.
Close by affirming the class’s commitment to an inclusive community.
Slide Deck
Welcome to Our Belonging Mat
Today, we begin our journey to understand and create belonging in our classroom. Get ready to share ideas and work together!
Welcome students as they enter. Introduce today’s lesson on belonging. Mention that we’ll explore what belonging means and why it matters, then work together on activities to build our classroom community. Use the slide’s pastel pink background (#F8BBD0) and accent colors (#F2A1B9, #EC89A1).
What Is Belonging?
• Feeling accepted and included by others
• Feeling safe to be yourself
• Feeling connected to the people around you
Explain the concept in simple terms. Point to each bullet and invite brief thumbs-up if students agree. Use friendly tone.
Why Belonging Matters
• Boosts engagement and focus in class
• Strengthens friendships and peer support
• Increases confidence and willingness to participate
Share how belonging supports learning and friendships. You can mention that research shows students who feel they belong learn better and enjoy school more.
Today’s Agenda
Kickoff Discussion on belonging (10 min)
Team Mural Creation (20 min)
Mural Presentations (5 min)
Shout-Out Circle (10 min)
Reflection and Closure (5 min)
Review the flow of our 50-minute session. Keep it brief and clear.
Discussion Starter
What does belonging mean to you?
• Share one word or feeling
• Tell us why that word describes belonging
Transition into discussion mode. Ask students to turn to a neighbor or raise hands. Encourage them to speak from the heart.
Activity
Team Mural Creation Activity Sheet
Objective: Collaborate with your group to illustrate strategies that promote belonging in our classroom.
1. Team Members
Student 1: ______
Student 2: ______
Student 3: ______
Student 4: ______
2. Brainstorm Strategies
List three ways to help everyone feel included:
______
______
______
3. Sketch Your Mural
In the space below, draw a scene showing one or more of your ideas. Be sure to label key parts of your picture.
4. Caption
Write a sentence explaining how your mural shows belonging.
5. Reflection
What role did you play in your group? What did you enjoy most about creating this mural?
Cool Down
Shout-Out Circle Prompt Cards
Use these cards during the Shout-Out Circle to guide positive, meaningful recognition among classmates. Shuffle and have each student draw one.
Prompts:
“Shout-out to someone who helped you learn something new today. What did they do?”
“Name a classmate who always makes you smile and tell us how they brighten your day.”
“Thank someone for listening when you needed to talk. Why was that important?”
“Give a shout-out to a peer who shows kindness. What did they do?”
“Recognize someone who worked hard on a task. What impressed you about their effort?”
“Who is someone that encourages you to do your best? Share an example.”
“Celebrate a peer who includes others in games or activities. How did they make others feel welcome?”
“Name someone who makes our classroom a safer space. How do they help?”
“Thank a friend who made you laugh or cheered you up recently. What did they say or do?”
“Shout-out to a classmate who shows respect. Describe one respectful action you noticed.”
“Who has shown great teamwork this week? Give an example of their cooperation.”
“Recognize someone for their creativity or unique idea. What did they share?”
