Your Space, Your Say Script

Introduction & Warm-Up (5 minutes)

Teacher: "Good morning, everyone! Today, we're going to talk about something super important that affects how we feel and how we get along with others. It's called 'healthy boundaries.' Has anyone heard that term before? What do you think it might mean?"

Teacher: "To kick us off, let's do a quick 'Boundary Check-in' using the sheet I'm handing out [refer to Warm Up: Boundary Check-in]. Just answer the questions honestly. There are no right or wrong answers, it's just to get us thinking about how we feel in different situations. You have about 2-3 minutes to complete it."

(Allow students time to complete the warm-up.)

Teacher: "Thanks for sharing your thoughts. As we go through our lesson today, keep your responses in mind. Our goal is to understand what healthy boundaries are, why they're important, and how we can set and respect them. This is a skill that will help you in all areas of your life – with friends, family, and even at school."

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 1: "Welcome to Your Space, Your Say!")

Teacher: "So, what exactly are boundaries? Take a look at this slide. We'll explore these questions throughout our time together."

What Are Healthy Boundaries? (10 minutes)

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 2: "What are Boundaries, Anyway?")

Teacher: "Think of a boundary like an invisible line or a personal fence. It's not there to keep people out completely, but rather to show others where your personal space, feelings, and limits are. It's about showing respect for yourself and asking others to do the same. When we have clear boundaries, we feel safer and more comfortable in our interactions."

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 3: "Types of Boundaries")

Teacher: "Now, boundaries aren't just about physical space. We have different types of boundaries. Let's look at them: physical, emotional, time, and material. Can anyone guess what a physical boundary might be?"

(Allow for student responses, guide towards personal space, touch, etc.)

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 4: "Physical Boundaries")

Teacher: "Exactly! Physical boundaries are about your body and personal space. It's deciding who can touch you and how, or how close someone can stand to you. For example, a handshake is usually okay, but a hug might only be okay with close friends or family. It's about your comfort level."

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 5: "Emotional Boundaries")

Teacher: "Emotional boundaries are about protecting your feelings and energy. This means deciding what you share about your feelings and with whom. It's also knowing when not to take on other people's problems as your own, or when to say 'no' if someone is asking too much of your emotional energy. It's like having a shield for your feelings."

Teacher: "Can anyone think of an example of an emotional boundary?"

(Allow for student responses, guide towards not wanting to talk about certain topics, not having to solve a friend's argument, etc.)

Teacher: "There are also time boundaries – deciding how you spend your time and not letting others constantly demand it. And material boundaries, which are about your belongings and money – like not letting someone borrow your things without asking."

Teacher: "I'm going to hand out a reading called Reading: Understanding Healthy Boundaries. You can follow along with what we're discussing or read it more closely later. This Discussion: Exploring Boundary Types document also has some prompts if we want to dive deeper into any of these types."

Why Are Boundaries Important? (10 minutes)

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 6: "Why Healthy Boundaries?")

Teacher: "So, now that we know what boundaries are, let's talk about why they're so important. Look at these benefits! Setting healthy boundaries helps you have more self-respect because you're honoring your own needs. It can also lead to less stress and better relationships, because everyone knows what to expect."

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 7: "A Win-Win Situation")

Teacher: "It's truly a win-win! Good boundaries help prevent misunderstandings and build trust. When people know your limits, they can respect them, and you can respect theirs. This creates a much safer and more comfortable environment for everyone."

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 8: "Seeing Boundaries in Action")

Teacher: "To help us visualize this even more, let's watch a short video. It will show us some real-life examples of healthy boundaries and how they work. As you watch, think about how the people in the video communicate their needs and how others respond."

(Play suggested video - for example, a relatable animated clip or short documentary snippet on healthy boundaries. Use the link provided in the slide deck.)

Teacher: "What did you notice in the video? What was one key takeaway about why boundaries are important?"

Communicating Boundaries (15 minutes)

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 9: "Speak Up! Communicating Boundaries")

Teacher: "Knowing you have a boundary is one thing, but communicating it is another! The best way to do this is often by using 'I' statements. Instead of saying 'You always interrupt me,' which can sound accusatory, you can say, 'I need to finish my thought,' or 'I feel interrupted when I'm speaking.' This focuses on your feelings and needs, not on blaming the other person."

Teacher: "Let's try one. If someone keeps taking your pencils without asking, how could you use an 'I' statement to set a boundary?"

(Allow for student responses, guide towards 'I feel frustrated when my pencils are taken without asking,' or 'I prefer if you ask before using my supplies.')

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 10: "More Communication Tips")

Teacher: "It's also important to be clear and consistent. Don't hint at a boundary; state it directly but kindly. And remember, practice makes perfect! It might feel a bit awkward at first, but the more you practice, the easier it becomes."

(If time allows, use prompts from Discussion: Exploring Boundary Types for a quick role-playing scenario or discussion on verbalizing boundaries.)

Practicing Boundaries (10 minutes)

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 11: "Respecting Others' Boundaries")

Teacher: "Just as we want our boundaries respected, it's equally important to respect others' boundaries. This means listening actively when someone sets a boundary, acknowledging their feelings, and adjusting your behavior. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected."

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 12: "Time to Practice! Boundary Scenarios")

Teacher: "Now it's your turn to practice! I'm going to divide you into small groups. Each group will receive a few Activity: Boundary Scenarios cards. Your task is to discuss how you would set a boundary or respect a boundary in each situation. I'll be walking around to help out and listen to your ideas."

(Divide students into groups and distribute scenario cards. Circulate and facilitate discussions.)

(Alternatively, if opting for a game:)

Teacher: "Instead of scenarios, we're going to play Game: Boundary BINGO! I'll explain the rules, but it's a fun way to reinforce what we've learned about different boundary situations."

Reflection & Application (5 minutes)

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 13: "Your Boundary Blueprint")

Teacher: "Great job with the scenarios, everyone! To help you think about how this applies to your life, I'm handing out a Worksheet: My Boundary Blueprint. This worksheet asks you to reflect on what boundaries are important to you and how you might communicate them."

(Allow students a few minutes to start the worksheet.)

Teacher: "Before we wrap up, I'd like each of you to share one key takeaway from today's lesson with a partner or, if you're comfortable, with the class."

Assessment & Wrap-up (5 minutes)

(Transition to Slide Deck: Your Space, Your Say - Slide 14: "You've Got This!")

Teacher: "To see how much we've learned, I'm going to give you a quick Quiz: Boundary Basics. Please do your best to answer all the questions. We will go over the answers later using the Answer Key: Boundary Basics Quiz."

(Distribute quiz and allow 2-3 minutes for completion.)

Teacher: "As a final thought for today, I'd like each of you to write down one word that describes your learning or feeling about boundaries now, compared to the start of class. This is our Cool Down: One-Word Reflection."

Teacher: "Fantastic work today, everyone! Remember, setting and respecting boundaries is a powerful life skill. Keep practicing, and always be kind to yourself and others."

Teacher: "For those interested in a deeper dive, we have a Project Guide: Creating a Boundary Awareness Campaign available, with a Rubric: Boundary Awareness Campaign to guide your work. This could be something we explore in future sessions or as a take-home activity. We'll also have a more comprehensive Test: Comprehensive Boundary Assessment at a later date to solidify our understanding."

Teacher: "Thank you all for your thoughtful participation today!"

Warm Up: Boundary Check-in

Instructions: Read each statement below and circle the number that best describes how you feel. There are no right or wrong answers; this is just to get us thinking.

1 = Strongly Disagree, 2 = Disagree, 3 = Neutral, 4 = Agree, 5 = Strongly Agree

1. I feel comfortable telling my friends when I need alone time.
   1    2    3    4    5

2. It's easy for me to say "no" when someone asks me to do something I don't want to do.
   1    2    3    4    5

3. I feel uncomfortable when someone touches my belongings without asking.
   1    2    3    4    5

4. I know how to politely tell someone they are standing too close to me.
   1    2    3    4    5

5. I often feel overwhelmed by other people's problems.
   1    2    3    4    5

6. I believe it's important to have personal space.
   1    2    3    4    5

Quick Reflection (Optional - share with a partner or the class):

• What was one statement that resonated with you the most?
  
  
  
  
• What is one thing you hope to learn about boundaries today?
  
  
  
  

Understanding Healthy Boundaries

What Are Boundaries?

Imagine you have your own personal invisible bubble around you. This bubble represents your personal space, your feelings, your time, and your belongings. Boundaries are like the rules you set for who can enter that bubble, how they can interact with it, and what happens inside. They are the limits you establish to protect your well-being and maintain respectful relationships with others.

Boundaries are not meant to keep people out completely, but rather to define how you can comfortably connect with others. They help you communicate your needs, preferences, and limits, ensuring that your interactions are healthy and respectful.

Different Types of Boundaries

Boundaries come in many forms, and understanding them helps us navigate different situations:

1. Physical Boundaries

These relate to your body and personal space. It's about who can touch you, how they can touch you, and how close they can stand to you. For example:

• Saying "no" to a hug from someone you don't feel comfortable with.
• Asking someone not to lean on your desk or touch your hair.
• Having a comfortable distance when talking to someone.

2. Emotional Boundaries

These protect your feelings and emotional energy. They help you decide what you're willing to share emotionally and how much emotional responsibility you're willing to take on for others. For example:

• Not feeling obligated to share personal details you're not ready to discuss.
• Not taking on a friend's sadness as your own when they are upset.
• Saying "I'm not comfortable talking about that right now."

3. Time Boundaries

These relate to how you manage and protect your time. They involve setting limits on your availability and ensuring you have enough time for your own needs and priorities. For example:

• Saying "I can't help with that project tonight; I need time for my homework."
• Communicating your availability for social plans.
• Not letting people constantly interrupt your study time.

4. Material/Financial Boundaries

These involve your personal belongings and money. They define how others can interact with your possessions and financial resources. For example:

• Asking friends to return borrowed items.
• Setting rules about who can use your phone or computer.
• Deciding whether or not to lend money to someone.

Why Are Healthy Boundaries Important?

Setting and respecting healthy boundaries offers numerous benefits:

• Increases Self-Respect: When you honor your own needs and limits, you show yourself that you are valuable and deserving of respect.
• Reduces Stress and Overwhelm: Boundaries help you avoid taking on too much or feeling drained by others' demands.
• Builds Stronger Relationships: Clear boundaries lead to fewer misunderstandings and more trust. When people know where they stand, they can interact with you more genuinely and respectfully.
• Enhances Communication: Setting boundaries encourages open and honest communication about needs and expectations.
• Protects Your Energy: By defining what you will and won't accept, you protect your mental and emotional energy, allowing you to feel more balanced and present.
• Creates a Sense of Safety: Knowing your boundaries are in place makes you feel more secure and comfortable in your interactions with others.

Learning to set and respect boundaries is a lifelong skill. It empowers you to take control of your well-being and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

Discussion: Exploring Boundary Types

Instructions: Discuss the following questions in small groups or as a class. Be respectful of different perspectives and experiences.

Part 1: Defining Boundaries

1. In your own words, how would you define a healthy boundary?
   
   
   
2. Why do you think it's important to have boundaries in our relationships with friends, family, and even teachers?
   
   
   

Part 2: Understanding Different Boundary Types

1. Can you think of a time when someone crossed a physical boundary of yours or someone you know? How did that make you feel?
   
   
   
2. What's an example of an emotional boundary you might set to protect your feelings or energy? Why would this be important?
   
   
   
3. How can setting a time boundary (like saying you're busy with homework) help you manage your responsibilities and well-being?
   
   
   
4. Think about material boundaries. How do you feel when someone uses your belongings without asking? What could you say or do in that situation?
   
   
   

Part 3: Communicating and Respecting Boundaries

1. What are some challenges you might face when trying to communicate your boundaries to someone?
   
   
   
2. What does it mean to actively listen when someone is setting a boundary with you?
   
   
   
3. How can you respectfully say "no" to someone without feeling guilty?
   
   
   
4. What's one thing you can do this week to practice setting or respecting a boundary in your own life?
   
   
   

Activity: Boundary Scenarios

Instructions: In your groups, read each scenario. Discuss what type of boundary is being challenged, how you would feel in that situation, and what you could say or do to set or respect a healthy boundary. Be ready to share your group's ideas with the class.

Scenario 1: The Late Friend

Your friend always shows up 15-20 minutes late when you make plans. You find yourself waiting alone often, and it makes you feel disrespected and frustrated.

• What type of boundary is this?
  
  
  
• How does this make you feel?
  
  
  
• What could you say or do to set a boundary with your friend?
  
  
  

Scenario 2: The Borrowed Item

Your classmate keeps borrowing your favorite pen without asking, and sometimes they don't return it or it comes back damaged. You need that pen for your work, and you feel annoyed.

• What type of boundary is this?
  
  
  
• How does this make you feel?
  
  
  
• What could you say or do to set a boundary with your classmate?
  
  
  

Scenario 3: Sharing Secrets

A friend tells you a secret and then immediately asks you to tell them a secret of yours, making you feel pressured to share something you're not ready to talk about.

• What type of boundary is this?
  
  
  
• How does this make you feel?
  
  
  
• What could you say or do to set a boundary in this situation?
  
  
  

Scenario 4: Overly Affectionate Relative

During a family gathering, an aunt or uncle gives you a big hug and a kiss on the cheek every time they see you, even though you prefer not to be touched that way, especially in front of others. You feel awkward but don't want to be rude.

• What type of boundary is this?
  
  
  
• How does this make you feel?
  
  
  
• What could you say or do to communicate your preference respectfully?
  
  
  

Scenario 5: Constant Requests

Your sibling constantly asks you for favors (e.g., doing their chores, helping with their homework for hours) even when you have your own responsibilities and plans. You feel overwhelmed and like you don't have enough time for yourself.

• What type of boundary is this?
  
  
  
• How does this make you feel?
  
  
  
• What could you say or do to set a boundary with your sibling?
  
  
  

Scenario 6: Unsolicited Advice

You are talking to a friend about a problem you're having, and instead of listening, they immediately start telling you what you should do, without asking if you want advice. You just wanted someone to listen.

• What type of boundary is this?
  
  
  
• How does this make you feel?
  
  
  
• What could you say to set an emotional boundary and get your needs met?
  
  
  

Worksheet: My Boundary Blueprint

Instructions: This worksheet is your chance to think about your own boundaries and how you want to protect your personal space, time, and feelings. Reflect on the questions below and write down your thoughts.

Part 1: My Personal Boundaries

1. Physical Boundary: What is one physical boundary that is important to you? (e.g., personal space, how you prefer to be touched, or not touched)
   
   
   
   
   
   
   How would you communicate this boundary if someone crossed it?
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Emotional Boundary: What is one emotional boundary you want to set? (e.g., what topics you don't want to discuss, not taking on other people's emotional burdens, protecting your privacy)
   
   
   
   
   
   
   How would you communicate this boundary to a friend or family member?
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. Time Boundary: What is one time boundary you want to establish or improve? (e.g., needing alone time, setting limits on how much time you spend on certain activities for others)
   
   
   
   
   
   
   How would you communicate this boundary when someone asks for your time?
   
   
   
   
   
   

4. Material Boundary: What is one material boundary that is important to you? (e.g., borrowing your belongings, using your phone, sharing your food)
   
   
   
   
   
   
   How would you communicate this boundary to someone who doesn't respect it?
   
   
   
   
   
   

Part 2: Reflect and Plan

1. What is one specific situation where you would like to be better at setting a boundary?
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. What is one strategy for communicating boundaries (like using "I" statements) that you feel confident trying this week?
   
   
   
   
   
   

3. What is one way you can show respect for someone else's boundaries this week?
   
   
   
   
   
   

4. What is the most important thing you learned about healthy boundaries today?
   
   
   
   
   
   

Game: Boundary BINGO

Instructions: Each square on your BINGO card describes a situation related to boundaries. As we discuss these situations, or if you have experienced or thought about them, mark the square. The first student to get five squares in a row (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally) and shout "BINGO!" wins. We will then discuss the squares.

Boundary BINGO Card

Answer Key: Boundary Basics Quiz

Question 1:

Which of the following best describes a healthy boundary?

Correct Answer: A personal limit that protects your well-being.

Explanation: Healthy boundaries are about defining what you are comfortable with and what you need to feel safe and respected. They are for your protection, not for controlling others or isolating yourself.

Question 2:

If you tell a friend, "I need some alone time to finish my homework," what type of boundary are you setting?

Correct Answer: Time boundary

Explanation: This statement sets a limit on how you allocate your time, indicating that your homework takes priority over other activities at that moment. Therefore, it is a time boundary.

Question 3:

Saying "I feel uncomfortable when you look through my phone without asking" is an example of what communication strategy?

Correct Answer: "I" statement

Explanation: An "I" statement focuses on your feelings and needs, rather than accusing the other person. It helps communicate your boundary clearly and respectfully, promoting understanding rather than defensiveness.

Question 4:

Why is it important to respect other people's boundaries?

Correct Answer: (Open Response - accept answers that convey similar meaning)

Possible Explanation: Respecting others' boundaries is crucial because it builds trust, shows empathy, and helps create healthy, balanced relationships. When you respect someone's limits, you affirm their right to personal space and well-being, which makes them feel valued and safe. It also encourages them to respect your boundaries in return.

Question 5:

Which of these is NOT a benefit of setting healthy boundaries?

Correct Answer: More misunderstandings

Explanation: Setting healthy boundaries actually reduces misunderstandings by making expectations and limits clear. The other options (increased self-respect, reduced stress, stronger relationships) are all positive outcomes and benefits of establishing healthy boundaries.

Cool Down: One-Word Reflection

Instructions: Think about everything we discussed today about healthy boundaries. In the space below, write down ONE word that best describes your main takeaway, how you feel about boundaries now, or something new you learned. There are no right or wrong answers!

My One Word:

Project Guide: Creating a Boundary Awareness Campaign

Objective

To deepen your understanding of healthy boundaries by designing and developing a campaign to raise awareness about their importance among your peers, school, or community.

Project Overview

In this project, you will work individually or in small groups (as assigned by your teacher) to create a public awareness campaign about healthy boundaries. Your campaign should aim to educate others on what boundaries are, why they are important, and how to set and respect them effectively. You will present your campaign to the class.

Deliverables

Choose ONE of the following campaign formats for your project:

Option 1: Poster/Infographic Series (3-5 items)

• Design a series of 3-5 visually appealing posters or digital infographics.
• Each poster/infographic should focus on a specific aspect of healthy boundaries (e.g., "What are boundaries?", "Types of boundaries," "Why boundaries matter," "How to say no," "Respecting others").
• Include clear, concise text and engaging visuals.

Option 2: Short Public Service Announcement (PSA) Video (1-3 minutes)

• Create a short video (1-3 minutes) that conveys a message about healthy boundaries.
• This could be a skit, an animation, an interview, or a spoken-word piece.
• Include a clear call to action or a strong message about the importance of boundaries.
• Must be school-appropriate and professionally presented.

Option 3: Presentation with Interactive Element (5-7 minutes)

• Prepare a 5-7 minute presentation (e.g., using Google Slides, PowerPoint) on healthy boundaries.
• The presentation should cover key definitions, importance, and communication strategies.
• Must include an interactive element for the audience (e.g., a short quiz, a quick discussion prompt, a mini-role-play, a poll).

Key Content to Include (Regardless of Format)

Your campaign must address the following:

• Definition of Healthy Boundaries: What are they?
• Types of Boundaries: Briefly explain at least two types (e.g., physical, emotional, time, material).
• Importance of Boundaries: Why are they crucial for well-being and relationships?
• Communication Strategies: How can someone effectively set a boundary (e.g., "I" statements)?
• Respecting Others: Why is it important to respect the boundaries others set?
• Target Audience: Clearly define who your campaign is for (e.g., elementary students, middle schoolers, parents).

Project Timeline

• Day 1 (Today): Introduction to Project, Group Formation (if applicable), Brainstorming ideas.
• Week 1: Research and outline content, choose campaign format.
• Week 2: Develop initial drafts of campaign materials.
• Week 3: Refine and finalize materials, practice presentation (if applicable).
• Presentation Day: Share your campaign with the class.

Assessment

Your project will be assessed using the Rubric: Boundary Awareness Campaign. Make sure to review the rubric carefully to understand the expectations for grading.

Tips for Success

• Be creative and think outside the box!
• Keep your message clear and easy to understand.
• Use visuals to make your campaign engaging.
• Practice your presentation if you choose that option.
• Work effectively with your group members (if applicable).

Rubric: Boundary Awareness Campaign

Project Name: Creating a Boundary Awareness Campaign

Student Name(s): ____________________________

Date: ____________________________

Scoring Criteria

Teacher Comments:

Total Score: ______ / 24