Welcome and Introduction (2 minutes):

• Greet each student warmly as they enter the classroom.
• Briefly introduce the purpose of the session, emphasizing the importance of trust and connection.

Setting the Tone (1 minute):

• Explain that the class will start with a "Positive Sharing Circle" to help everyone feel more comfortable and connected.

Sharing Circle Activity (7 minutes):

• Ask students to form a circle with their chairs to create an inclusive and open environment.
• Invite each student to share one positive thing that happened to them recently. This could be something small or significant, such as a nice interaction, a personal achievement, or a moment of joy.
• Encourage students to listen actively and respectfully to each other’s stories.
• As the teacher, participate by sharing your own positive experience to model openness and vulnerability.

Transition to Discussion (1 minute):

• Thank the students for sharing and highlight the diversity of positive experiences shared.
• Transition smoothly into the next part of the lesson by connecting the positive energy from the sharing circle to the importance of trust and connection in the classroom.

Introduction to Trust (3 minutes):

• Begin by writing the word "Trust" on the whiteboard.
• Ask students to think about what trust means to them and why it is important.
• Encourage students to share their initial thoughts or definitions of trust.

Guided Discussion (10 minutes):

• Prompt 1: "Why do you think trust is important in relationships, whether with friends, family, or teachers?"
  • Encourage students to consider different types of relationships and how trust plays a role in each.
  • Follow-up: "Can you think of a time when trust helped strengthen a relationship?"
    
    
    
    
• Prompt 2: "How does trust relate to mental health?"
  • Discuss how trust can create a safe space for sharing feelings and seeking help.
  • Follow-up: "What are some ways we can build trust with each other in this classroom?"
    
    
    
    
• Prompt 3: "What can happen when trust is broken?"
  • Explore the impact of broken trust and how it can affect mental health and relationships.
  • Follow-up: "How can we work to rebuild trust once it has been broken?"
    
    
    
    

Conclusion (2 minutes):

• Summarize the key points discussed, highlighting the role of trust in fostering a supportive environment.
• Reinforce the idea that the classroom is a safe space where trust is valued and respected.

Introduction to the Trust Circle (2 minutes):

• Explain the purpose of the Trust Circle, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for sharing.
• Highlight the rules of the Trust Circle: respect, confidentiality, and active listening.

Forming the Circle (2 minutes):

• Arrange the seating in a circle to ensure everyone can see each other and feel included.
• Encourage students to sit comfortably and remind them that participation is voluntary.

Sharing Personal Experiences (10 minutes):

• Invite students to share a personal experience or thought that they feel comfortable discussing. This could be related to trust, a challenge they overcame, or a positive moment in their life.
• Encourage students to listen actively and offer support through non-verbal cues like nodding or smiling.
• As the teacher, participate by sharing your own experience to model openness and vulnerability.

Conclusion and Reflection (1 minute):

• Thank the students for their participation and courage in sharing.
• Reinforce the importance of trust and connection, and remind them that the classroom is a safe space for open communication.