What if people in the world do not get along? Imagine a world where everyone treats others without respect, empathy, and cooperation. Picture social interactions where friendliness and positiveness are absent. Through a role-playing activity, kindergarten students discover the consequences of negative social engagements and the importance of getting along well with others and treating them positively.
In this SEL activity, six kindergarten students play the characters of their beloved jungle and forest animal friends. The play is set on a boat built by the jungle animals as they cross the lake. However, instead of helping each other, the animals played by the students are self-centered. They refuse to follow the rules in their Code of Conduct, decline to cooperate, and call each other insulting names.
For example, the character of Abbott Rabbit blames Ellie Elephant’s size for the possibility of the boat sinking. Annie Owl is grumpy and does not want to talk to anyone. Meanwhile, Barney Bear only thinks of himself as he relaxes on the boat and leaves the sailing work to others. Finally, Miska Monkey is negative about the trip and makes everyone else feel bad.
"By the end of this effective lesson, students will recognize that disregarding others’ feelings can lead to a breakdown in trust, strained relationships, and conflicts."
How would the sailing trip go if everyone acted negatively toward others? Would it result in success or disaster? This immersive activity demonstrates the consequences of self-centered behavior and not getting along with others. By painting this picture, students can reflect on the value of acquiring social skills for personal success and cultivating harmonious relationships.
In the following class discussion, students share their thoughts on the scenario and present solutions to help the animal characters get along. First, they assess the characters’ behavior and determine the problem. Then, they coach the animals about the Code of Conduct, a set of behavior guidelines, to help them have a positive sailing experience. For example, they suggest that Abbott Rabbit needs to practice respect for Ellie, as he fails to see the good in her.
By the end of this effective lesson, students will recognize that disregarding others’ feelings can lead to a breakdown in trust, strained relationships, and conflicts. They will understand that these negative outcomes can undermine crucial aspects of life, such as healthy and functioning social environments, peace and order, and nurturing relationships.
Armed with this knowledge, kindergartners will develop a deeper appreciation for the importance of considering the feelings of others and treating them positively. They will learn the value of empathy, kindness, and respect in fostering harmonious interactions, maintaining order, and building supportive relationships.
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