General: Perspective taking/ interpersonal negotiation
Your friend is really quiet today and doesn’t want to play during trade in. What’s a thoughtful way to check in with them?
Asking privately if they’re okay and offering support if they want to talk
A friend who usually loves video games doesn’t want to play today. What could be going on?
They might be tired, busy, or just not in the mood
Your friend didn’t respond to your text right away. Instead of assuming they’re ignoring you, what else could be true?
They might be busy, their phone could be off, or they didn’t see it yet
You’re thrilled about your birthday party this weekend, but your friend seems uninterested. What could be a reason for this?
They might be feeling left out, busy, or dealing with something else on their mind
Your teacher seems stressed. Instead of getting upset, what perspective could you take?
Maybe she had a rough day, and it’s not about me.
Joe is playing basketball when Manny comes up and says its his turn to play with the ball. Joe wants to play more basketball and doesn't want to leave. What can they do?
Joe and Manny can take turns one at a time on the slide.
Your friend seems annoyed and snaps at you, but later you find out they had a really bad day. Why is it important to consider their perspective before getting upset?
They might not be mad at me personally, but just having a tough time.
You are making disruptive noises in class. The teacher asks you to "please stop" and you continue.
How might that make your teacher and peers feel ?
frustrated, annoyed, confused
You and your sibling are arguing over the TV remote. What’s a way to consider their perspective and find a solution?
Ask why they want to watch their show and try to take turns or compromise
A new student at Valley doesn’t have anyone to sit with at lunch. How might they be feeling, and what could you do to help?
They might feel lonely or nervous, and I could invite them to sit with me.
You tell a joke, and everyone laughs except one person who looks uncomfortable. What should you consider?
The joke might have hurt their feelings or reminded them of something upsetting
You and your best friend both want to be student of the month, but only one person can have the role. How could you show empathy in this situation?
Acknowledging their feelings and finding a fair way to decide.
Your classmate sprained his ankle and cannot go outside to play. How can you make them feel included?
Sit and talk with them, or play a game they can join
Someone in your class doesn’t celebrate the same holidays as you. What’s a respectful way to learn about their traditions?
Ask them politely and listen to what they want to share
A friend shares a funny meme about someone, but it might be hurtful. How can you help them see a different perspective?
Explain how it might make that person feel and suggest being kind online
Patrick and Matt are talking to each other when all of a sudden Matt sneezes all over Patrick without covering his mouth or nose. How does Patrick feel?
disgusted
Your friend just moved to a new school and doesn’t know anyone. How might they feel, and what can you do?
They might feel nervous or lonely, and I could introduce them to people
You accidentally bump into someone in the hallway, and they seem annoyed. How should you respond?
Apologize and understand that they might be having a bad day