• lenny-learning-logoLenny Learning
  • Home
    Home
    • Lessons
    Lessons
  • Curriculum
    Curriculum
  • Surveys
    Surveys
  • Videos
    Videos
  • Support
    Support
  • Log In
lenny

Why Are Boundaries Important?

user image

Ciana Spillman

Tier 2
For Schools

Lesson Plan

Exploring Importance

Students will explore the concept of boundaries, understand why they matter to personal well-being and relationships, and discuss how to apply them in everyday situations.

Understanding boundaries helps students manage their feelings, develop respect for themselves and others, and foster healthy relationships which are crucial for social-emotional growth.

Audience

3rd Grade Group

Time

40 minutes

Approach

Interactive discussion, video, and reflective activities.

Materials

Exploring Importance, Group Reflections, Boundary Journals, and The Boundaries Song

Prep

Teacher Preparation

10 minutes

  • Review the Exploring Importance lesson plan for context.
  • Prepare discussion questions and prompts related to personal boundaries.
  • Set up the classroom with materials for the group reflections, Boundary Journals, and video viewing.
  • Ensure all activities are age-appropriate and interactive.

Step 1

Video Introduction

5 minutes

  • Begin by showing The Boundaries Song to introduce the concept of personal boundaries in a fun and engaging way.
  • Ask students what they noticed in the video about setting and respecting boundaries.

Step 2

Introduction and Warm-up

5 minutes

  • Follow the video with a brief discussion about what boundaries are.
  • Ask students for examples of boundaries in their daily lives.
  • Introduce the lesson’s objective using simple language.

Step 3

Interactive Discussion

15 minutes

  • Lead a group discussion using pre-prepared questions.
  • Encourage students to share personal experiences in a respectful manner.
  • Use the Group Reflections guide to facilitate conversation.

Step 4

Activity: Boundary Journals

15 minutes

  • Distribute Boundary Journals for students to draw or write about their personal boundaries.
  • Provide prompts to help them reflect on why boundaries are important in their lives.
  • Circulate among students to offer guidance and encourage dialogue.

Step 5

Wrap-Up and Reflection

5 minutes

  • Summarize the key points discussed about boundaries.
  • Ask students to share one takeaway from the session.
  • Emphasize the importance of using boundaries to maintain healthy relationships.
lenny

Discussion

Group Reflections Discussion

This discussion is designed to help students articulate their understanding of boundaries and share personal experiences in a respectful and inclusive environment. The following guidelines and prompts will support the conversation:

Guidelines for Discussion

  • Respect and Listen: Encourage students to listen carefully when others are speaking and respect each other's feelings and experiences.
  • Speak One at a Time: Remind students to speak one at a time so that everyone has a chance to share.
  • Use Kind Words: Emphasize the importance of using kind and supportive language when discussing personal experiences.




Discussion Prompts

  1. What Does a Boundary Mean to You?

    Ask students to describe, in their own words, what a boundary is and why they think it is important.





  2. Sharing Personal Examples:

    Invite a few volunteers to share an example of a boundary they have in their life (e.g., personal space, time to relax, or privacy). How does having that boundary make them feel safe or respected?





  3. How Can We Help Others Respect Boundaries?

    Discuss ideas on how students can support their friends and family in understanding and respecting personal boundaries. What are some ways to remind each other of this when necessary?





  4. What Happens When Boundaries Are Not Respected?

    Talk about the potential feelings or outcomes when someone does not respect another person's boundaries. How can we communicate our feelings if this happens?





Follow-up Points

  • Reflective Comments: Encourage students to think about one takeaway from the discussion and share how they might apply these ideas to their interactions at school or home.





  • Role Playing: If time allows, consider a quick role-playing activity where pairs of students practice setting and respecting boundaries in a simulated scenario.





This discussion helps create a safe space for students to explore the importance of boundaries in their lives, ultimately reinforcing respect and personal well-being in their relationships.

lenny
lenny

Activity

Boundary Journals

This activity encourages you to reflect on your personal boundaries. You can draw or write in your journal to show what boundaries mean to you and why they are important. Follow these steps:

Steps to Follow:

  1. Think About Your Boundaries:
    Take a few minutes to think about a boundary that is important to you (it might be your personal space, time for quiet, or privacy in your room).





  2. Draw or Write:
    In your Boundary Journal, draw a picture or write a few sentences about your chosen boundary. Consider these questions:

    • What does your boundary look like or feel like?
    • Why is this boundary important for you?
    • How do you feel when your boundary is respected?





  3. Share With a Partner (Optional):
    If you feel comfortable, share your drawing or writing with a classmate and listen to what they have created as well.





  4. Reflection:
    At the end of the activity, we will have a short discussion. You can share one thing you learned about yourself while doing this activity.

Happy journaling and remember your boundaries help keep you safe and respected!

lenny
lenny