I Can Make Safe Choices Story

Our Daily Adventures

Life is full of adventures, big and small. Every day, we face situations where we need to make decisions. Some decisions are easy, like choosing what to wear. Others can be a little trickier, especially when it comes to keeping ourselves and others safe.

Meet Alex

Let's meet Alex, a 7th grader who, just like you, navigates different choices every day. Alex is a friendly and smart kid, but sometimes situations can feel overwhelming. Luckily, Alex has a few superpowers: problem-solving, self-advocacy, and the ability to make safe choices.

Scenario 1: The Group Project Pressure

One afternoon, Alex was working on a group project with classmates, Liam and Chloe. The project was due soon, and Liam suggested they just copy some information directly from a website without citing it. Chloe looked uncomfortable but didn't say anything.

Alex felt a knot in their stomach. They knew copying was cheating and wouldn't be making a safe choice for their academic integrity or their grade. What should Alex do?

Alex took a deep breath. This was a moment for self-advocacy and problem-solving. Alex said, "Hey guys, I don't think copying is a good idea. We could get in trouble, and it's not fair to do that. How about we find a way to put it in our own words and make sure we cite all our sources properly? We can still finish on time if we work together on this part."

Chloe nodded in agreement, relieved. Liam grumbled a bit but eventually agreed, realizing Alex had a point. Together, they found legitimate sources and completed the project ethically. Alex made a safe choice for everyone involved.

Scenario 2: The Online Message

Later that week, Alex received a strange message online from an unknown account. The message asked for personal information, like their address and phone number. It felt a little scary and definitely not right.

This was another critical moment for a safe choice. Alex remembered what their teacher had taught them about online safety. They knew they should never share personal information with strangers online. Instead of replying, Alex immediately showed the message to a trusted adult, their parent. Together, they blocked the account and reported it. Alex practiced self-advocacy by protecting their privacy and seeking help.

Your Superpowers

Just like Alex, you have these superpowers too! You have the ability to:

• Problem-Solve: Think through difficult situations and come up with good solutions.
• Self-Advocate: Speak up for what is right, for your safety, and for the safety of others.
• Make Safe Choices: Choose actions that keep you and those around you healthy, happy, and out of harm's way.

Remember, being a Safe-Choice Superhero isn't about wearing a cape; it's about making smart, thoughtful decisions every single day. Every safe choice you make strengthens your superpowers and helps you navigate your world with confidence and integrity. Keep practicing, and keep being awesome!

What is one takeaway from Alex's story that you will remember?

Safe Choice Scenario Cards

Instructions:
Read each scenario carefully. Discuss with your group what the safest and most appropriate action would be. Be prepared to explain your reasoning to the class. Consider using your problem-solving and self-advocacy skills.

Scenario 1: The Sketchy Shortcut

You and your friend are walking home from school. Your friend suggests taking a shortcut through an alley you know is usually empty and a bit dark, even though your parents told you to always stick to the main streets. Your friend says, "It will save us so much time! What's the big deal?"

What would you do? What are the potential risks and benefits of each choice? How could you advocate for a safer route without upsetting your friend?

Scenario 2: The Pressure to Cheat

During a pop quiz, you see a classmate, who is usually very nice, trying to copy answers from another student's paper. They glance at you, clearly hoping you won't say anything. You know cheating is wrong, but you don't want to get your classmate in trouble or make things awkward.

What would you do? How could you address the situation in a way that is safe and responsible, for yourself and your classmate? What are the possible consequences of saying something vs. staying silent?

Scenario 3: The Party Invite

You get invited to a party at an older student's house. You hear rumors that there might be alcohol or older kids there you don't know, which makes you feel uneasy. Your best friend is really excited to go and is pressuring you to come along.

What would you do? How can you make a safe choice for yourself while also navigating peer pressure? What are your options if you decide not to go?

Scenario 4: The Cyberbullying Comment

You see a group chat where some of your classmates are making mean comments about another student in your grade. You feel bad for the student being targeted, but you're scared that if you say something, they might turn on you.

What would you do? How can you safely and effectively advocate for the student being bullied? What steps can you take if you don't feel comfortable confronting the bullies directly?

Certificate of Achievement

For Being a Safe-Choice Superhero!

This certificate is proudly awarded to:

For demonstrating outstanding understanding and application of safe choices, problem-solving, and self-advocacy skills. Your commitment to making positive and safe decisions makes you a true superhero!

Date:

Teacher: