School
Your teacher asks the class to form small groups for a project. Most students quickly pair up, and you’re not sure how to join a group. What can you say or do to join a group without feeling left out?
Initiating conversation, asking to join, understanding social cues for inclusion.
You could say, "Hey I don't have a group yet, do you mind if I join you all?"
Your aunt and uncle unexpectedly stop by to visit. Your parents greet them and invite them inside. They want to chat with everyone, including you. How can you respond appropriately?
Saying "Hello, it's nice to see you!"
Small talk: Ask them how they have been and what they have been up to
Recognizing social cues about joining or leaving a conversation (waiting until someone is finished speaking to make a comment)
You are at a restaurant, and the waiter asks what you would like to order. You feel unsure about speaking up because you're unsure of what you want. What could you say to the waiter?
Make eye contact and speak in a clear voice!
You arrive at your friend’s house, and their parents greet you at the door. They ask, “How are you?” How can you respond appropriately and politely?
Making eye contact, responding with a simple greeting like "I'm good, thank you! How are you?"
A classmate sees your neatly organized desk and says, “Wow, you must love cleaning!” in a playful tone. You’re not sure if they’re serious or joking. How can you figure out whether they mean what they say or if they are being sarcastic?
Recognizing tone of voice, facial expressions, and context clues
Your family is sitting together for dinner. Your sibling is telling a story about their day, and your parents are listening. You want to share something too. How can you take turns in the conversation without interrupting?
Taking conversational turns, using polite phrases like "Excuse me" or waiting for a pause to speak.
You ordered a cheeseburger, but the waiter brings you a chicken sandwich by mistake. You don’t like chicken sandwiches. How can you politely let the waiter know about the mistake?
Speaking up assertively, using polite language like "Excuse me, I think there’s a mistake with my order," staying calm while waiting for a correction.
You and your friend are playing video games, but they want a turn with the controller. You still want to play. How can you handle this situation fairly?
Taking turns, negotiating Example: "Can I finish this level first?"
A student jokingly calls you by a silly nickname that you don’t like. Others laugh, but you don’t find it funny. How can you respond in a way that sets a boundary without escalating the situation?
Assertive communication, handling teasing, knowing when to seek help from a teacher.
You could pull the person to the side and say, "Hey I don't like when you call me that, it hurts my feelings. Please don't do it again or I will have to tell a teacher."
You’re watching TV in the living room, and your sibling sits next to you, a little closer than you’d like. They don’t seem to notice. How can you communicate your need for space politely?
Setting personal boundaries, using clear but polite language, understanding nonverbal cues.
You could say: "Would you mind scooting over a little bit? I'd like some more room to get comfortable."
You’re eating with family, and a relative keeps asking you questions. You’re not sure how to end the conversation politely so you can focus on eating. How can you let them know you need a break without being rude?
Using polite phrases like "It was nice talking to you, I’m going to finish my meal now," or nonverbal cues like nodding and turning back to eating.
You and your friend planned to watch a movie, but they suddenly decide they want to play outside instead. You were looking forward to the movie. How can you adapt to the change without getting upset?
Be Flexible!
Suggesting a compromise (e.g., "Can we watch the movie later?")
Manage disappointment, don't throw a fit or make an unnecessary comment
You’re struggling to understand a math problem, but you don’t want to interrupt the teacher while they’re helping another student. What are different ways you can ask for help appropriately?
Raising your hand, waiting for the right moment, using polite phrases like “Excuse me” or “Can you help me when you have a moment?”
You were expecting to have a quiet evening playing your favorite video game, but your parents decide to have a family game night instead. How can you handle this unexpected change without getting too frustrated?
Managing flexibility, expressing feelings calmly, finding compromise
You could say. "Mom I planned to play video games tonight, but I know this means a lot you. Is it okay if I play my video games tomorrow?"
You finish eating, but your parents are still talking and waiting for the check. You feel ready to leave. What should you do while waiting instead of rushing out or interrupting your parent's conversation?
Remain patient, join the conversation, speak to your siblings, or play with an activity you brought with you
You’ve been playing for a while, and your friend’s parents say, “It’s getting late.” You’re not sure if they want you to leave now. What should you do?
Although you don't want to leave, your friend's parents are suggesting it's time to go. Text your mom and ask her to pick you up or see if your friend's parents can drop you off. Don't forget to tell them thanks for having you over!
The lunchroom is loud, and the bright lights and crowded space are making you feel overwhelmed. You start feeling anxious and distracted. What strategies can you use to stay calm or what can you do to help the situation?
Self-regulation techniques (deep breathing, taking a break), communicating needs to a teacher, stepping out of the lunch room for a moment
Your grandparent gives you a sweater as a gift, but you don’t really like it. They are smiling and waiting for your reaction. How can you respond kindly, even if it’s not something you wanted?
Showing appreciation, using polite language, understanding the emotions of others.
You could say, "Thank you for getting this for me!"
You’ve placed your order, but it’s taking longer than expected. You start feeling impatient or frustrated. What can you do to stay calm while waiting for your food?
Engaging in small talk with family, playing a quiet game on your phone (if appropriate), or looking around the restaurant to observe your surroundings.
Before leaving, your friend’s parents offer you a snack or drink. Even if you don’t want anything, they expect a response. How can you respond politely?
Saying "No, thank you" politely if you don’t want anything, or "Yes, please" if you do, and remembering to thank them before you leave.