Self-compassion
This is what you should give yourself when you make a mistake—just like you’d give to a friend
What is kindness?
Taking a big breath in…and slowly letting it out…is a simple way to calm your body.
What is deep breathing?
Before making a choice, it’s important to stop and do this instead of rushing.
What is think?
When you say, “Everyone messes up sometimes,” you’re reminding yourself of this helpful idea.
What is being understanding with yourself?
I fly without wings. I cry without eyes. Whenever I go, darkness flies. What am I?
a CLOUD
When you talk to yourself in a gentle, encouraging way, you’re using this kind of voice.
What is a positive or kind inner voice?
Doing something fun you enjoy—like drawing, playing, or listening to music—can help reduce this feeling.
What is stress?
These are the different things you can choose between when making a decision.
What are options?
Putting your hand on your heart, taking a breath, and saying, “I’m doing my best,” is an example of giving yourself this.
What is comfort? self love
I’m tall when I’m young and short when I’m old. What am I?
a candle
When you take a deep breath, calm down, and remind yourself “It’s okay to feel this way,” you are practicing this.
What is self-compassion?
Talking to this kind of person, such as a parent, teacher, or friend, can help you feel better when you’re overwhelmed.
Who is a trusted adult?
Asking yourself, “Is this safe? Is this kind?” helps you make this kind of choice.
What is a good or responsible choice?
When you treat yourself as kindly as you treat a friend who is sad, you are practicing this skill.
What is being gentle with yourself?
What has many teeth but can’t bite?
a comb
Doing something that helps you feel better—like drawing, reading, or taking a break—is an example of this healthy habit.
What is self-care?
When your mind is full of big feelings, doing this with your muscles—tightening and then relaxing—can help you calm down.
What is relaxing your muscles (or muscle relaxation)?
When you think about what might happen after a choice—good or bad—you’re thinking about these.
What are consequences?
Instead of saying, “I can’t do this,” changing your words to something kinder—like “I’ll keep trying”—is using this kind of thinking.
What is positive self-talk?
I start out small, but grow with time; I glow in the dark and light up the night. What am I?
a star
When you remember that everyone struggles sometimes—not just you—you’re using this helpful kind of thinking.
What is remembering you’re not alone? (or common humanity)
When you slow down, notice what’s around you, and pay attention to just one thing at a time, you’re practicing this focus skill.
What is mindfulness?
When a situation is tricky or confusing, you should ask this person—like a parent or teacher—to help you decide.
Who is a trusted adult?
When you forgive yourself for something that didn’t go well and choose to try again later, you are showing this important part of self-compassion.
What is self-forgiveness?
I have a neck but no head, two arms but no hands. What am I?
a shirt