Cringe or Shine Lesson Plan

Students will understand the concept of secondhand embarrassment (“cringe”) versus authentic confidence (“shine”), practice self-expression, and appreciate differences by sorting examples, creating personal drawings, and reflecting on their strengths.

Many kids avoid activities they enjoy for fear of being “cringe.” This lesson builds social-emotional skills—recognizing secondhand embarrassment, boosting self-confidence, and celebrating authenticity—to help students embrace who they are.