Conversation Skills
What is one way to start a conversation with someone?
Say “Hi!” or ask a question.
What does it mean to be flexible?
It means going with the flow and trying new things, even if they’re not your first choice.
What’s one way to make a new friend?
Say hi, ask to play, give a compliment, etc.
What does it mean to be a good sport?
Be kind whether you win or lose.
What’s the first step in solving a problem?
Figure out what the problem is.
What does it mean to “share” a conversation?
Taking turns talking and listening.
You wanted to use the blue crayon but someone else is using it. What’s a flexible choice?
Use a different color or wait your turn.
Your friend looks sad. What’s something kind you could say?
"Are you okay?” or “Want to talk?”
You lose a game. What are 2 things you can say?
“Good game!” or “That was fun.”
You and your friend both want the same toy. What’s one way to solve the problem?
Take turns or play together.
Is this a conversation stopper or driver? “That’s boring. I don’t want to talk about that.”
Stopper
Show what it looks like to have a big reaction and then a flexible reaction when you lose a game.
Role play both.
Someone says they don’t want to play. What’s a kind way to respond?
“Okay, maybe next time.”
You want to go first, but your friend says they’re going first. What’s a calm choice?
Take a deep breath, wait your turn.
Think of a scenario and practice using an "I feel statement." Fill in the blank: “I feel ___ when ___.”
Act it out: Pretend your friend just told you they got a new puppy. Show a way to keep the conversation going.
“What kind of puppy is it?”
You come to group and your seat has changed. What’s a flexible way to handle that?
Sit in the new spot and try to stay calm.
Act it out: Show what it looks like when someone wants to play with you and you’re not sure.
Look for eye contact, body language; say “I need a minute” or “I’m still deciding.”
Act it out: You win a game, but your friend looks sad. Show how to be a good winner.
Say “Nice try!” or “You did great too!”
Your classmate bumps into you by accident. What’s a calm way to react?
Say “It’s okay” or “Please be more careful next time.”
You’re in a group talking about Minecraft, but you want to talk about Pokémon. What can you do?
Wait your turn, make a connection first, or ask if they want to switch topics later.
You were planning to play outside, but it’s raining. What are 2 flexible ways to handle that?
Come up with other fun indoor options; try a new activity with a friend.
You wanted to be the line leader, but someone else got picked. How might they be feeling if you say “That’s not fair!” loudly?
They might feel embarrassed or upset. Practice empathy by saying something else instead.
You got out during a game. You feel really upset. What can you do with your body and words to stay in control?
Deep breath, walk away, use self-talk (“I’m okay. It’s just a game.”)
Two friends are arguing about what game to play. What are 3 steps they can take to solve the problem together?
Take turns talking, come up with choices, make a plan or take a break.