Communication Kick-Off

Objective

• Engage in a conversation about communication.
• Reflect on personal experiences and understand the importance of expressing needs effectively.

Instructions

1. Introduction (1 minute):

   • Greet the student warmly and introduce the topic of communication.
   • Briefly explain that today's session will help learn how to communicate needs clearly.

2. Discussion Prompt (2 minutes):

   • Ask: "Can you think of a time when you needed something from an adult? How did you ask for it?"
   • Listen actively to her experience and ask follow-up questions such as:
     • "What words did you use?"
     • "How did the adult respond?"

3. Concept Introduction (2 minutes):

   • Explain that effective communication involves expressing needs clearly and respectfully.
   • Summarize why it's important: "Good communication helps us get the help we need and build strong relationships."

4. Reflection (1 minute):

   • Ask the student to think about why clear communication might be useful in different situations, like at school or at home.

Use the space below for the student to jot down or draw her thoughts on communication:

Puzzle of Needs

Overview

In the Puzzle of Needs game, our goal is to help you practice communicating your needs clearly and respectfully. By earning puzzle pieces for expressing yourself effectively, you'll work together with your teacher to reveal a positive message about communication!

Game Setup

• Materials Needed:

  • Printed Puzzle Pieces
  • Scenario Cards
  • Timer (optional, to add a fun time element)
  • Whiteboard and Markers

• Preparation:

  • The teacher will set up scenario cards that describe different situations where you might need to communicate something important to an adult.
  • The puzzle pieces are mixed up and kept aside until earned.

Game Rules

1. Scenario Draw:

   • Start the game by drawing a scenario card. Each card will describe a situation, such as asking for help with homework, or needing a break during a long class.

2. Express Your Need:

   • Read the scenario aloud. Then, take a moment to think about how you would explain your need to an adult using clear, positive language.
   • When you're ready, tell your teacher how you would express that need.

3. Earning a Puzzle Piece:

   • Your teacher will provide feedback on your communication. If you used effective and respectful language, you earn one puzzle piece.

4. Completing the Puzzle:

   • Keep collecting puzzle pieces by going through several scenario cards until you've earned enough pieces to complete the puzzle.
   • Once the puzzle is complete, a positive message will be revealed that reminds you of the power of effective communication!

5. Time Challenge (Optional):

   • To add an extra fun element, use a timer to see if you can complete the puzzle within a certain time frame. This step is optional and meant to add a bit of excitement!

Tips for Success

• Take a moment to think about your words before speaking.
• Use polite phrases such as "please" and "thank you."
• Remember: The goal is to share your needs in a way that both you and the adult understand.

Now, let's begin the Puzzle of Needs and unlock the secret message behind positive communication!