Connection Crew Journal
CONNECTION CREW
Adventure Journal
Explorer Name
Date
Level 1: Launching Communication
My Connection Radar
Before we head out on our friendship adventure, let's scan our communication systems! Read each radar beacon below and color in the stars that match how you feel right now.
I can start a conversation with someone new.
I listen carefully when others are talking to me.
I invite classmates who are playing alone to join in.
I respect my friends' choices, even if we disagree.
The Recess Spark Starters
Imagine a classmate is sitting on the bench during recess looking like they want to play. Write down two friendly Spark Starters you could use to invite them or start a friendly chat!
SPARK 1
SPARK 2
CONNECTION CREW ACADEMY PAGE 1
CONNECTION CREW
Field Guide Activities
Level 2: Inclusive Play Blueprint
The Inclusivity Blueprint
Sometimes we see games already happening, and we're not sure how to join, or we notice someone else is left out. Look at the play challenge below and draft your inclusion blueprint!
The Playground Scenario:
Four classmates are playing a kickball game. Every time they kick the ball, another student (Leo) runs to fetch it for them, but he never gets a turn to kick or play on a team. He looks disappointed.
Your Action Steps
Write down 3 concrete steps you or the other players can take to include Leo in the actual game.
1
2
3
Sharing is Connection
Sharing doesn't just mean giving up items—it means enjoying them together! Think of a favorite playground game or board game. Write down how you can invite someone to play it with you.
CONNECTION CREW ACADEMY PAGE 2
CONNECTION CREW
Adventure Goal Tracker
Level 3: Friendship Goal Tracker
My Weekly Connection Mission
True explorers don't just plan—they take action! Choose one friendship goal you want to work on this week, keep track of your daily kindness acts, and reflect on how it went.
My Main Mission
This week, my main connection goal is to:
Connection Checklist Challenge
The Hello Scout
Say a cheery "Hello!" to a classmate you haven't talked to much this week.
Active Listener
Ask someone about their favorite hobby and listen to their whole story.
Welcome Wagon
Invite a classmate who is sitting alone to join you at recess or lunch.
The Compliment King
Give a genuine, specific compliment to someone on their work or attitude.
Team Playmaker
Suggest a way to play a game where everyone gets an equal amount of turns.
Recess Helper
Help someone pick up dropped gear, solve a dispute, or clean up after a game.
Mission Reflection
How did practicing these connection skills make you feel? Write a short summary below.
Today's Mood
😊 Happy
🤗 Included
🌟 Proud
🌱 Growing
CONNECTION CREW ACADEMY PAGE 3
Talk Tactics Cards
TALK TACTICS
Interactive Discussion Cards
Page 1: Cards 1 - 6
Teacher Tip: Print this sheet on cardstock, cut along the dashed borders, and distribute to small groups or pairs to spark sharing, role-play, and inclusive play habits!
Icebreaker
The Weird Hobby Check
If you could invent a completely new, bizarre hobby that everyone at school had to try, what would it be? Ask the person on your right what their gear would look like!
Talk Tactics Card Deck #01
Role-Play
The Playground Switch
Act this out: Kid A is swinging and having fun. Kid B walks up and says, "I want the swing now!" Kid A feels rushed. Roleplay a friendlier way to ask, and a polite response.
Talk Tactics Card Deck #02
Inclusivity
The Circle Shift
Challenge: Sit with your group. Your team has 60 seconds to find three things you ALL have in common (e.g., favorite food, pets, hobbies). Can you do it before time is up?
Talk Tactics Card Deck #03
Group Share
The Magic Reset Button
If you could press a magic button to change one rule about how kids treat each other on the school bus or in the hallways, what rule would you make? Explain why.
Talk Tactics Card Deck #04
Icebreaker
Desert Island Game
You are stuck on a tropical island and can only bring ONE yard game (like tag, soccer, or four-square). Pitch your choice to the group and try to get them to agree on your choice!
Talk Tactics Card Deck #05
Role-Play
The Forgotten Partner
Act this out: The teacher says, "Find a partner!" and you notice someone standing alone looking nervous. Roleplay how you would approach them and invite them to team up.
Talk Tactics Card Deck #06
CONNECTION CREW ADEMY PAGE 1 OF 2
TALK TACTICS
Interactive Discussion Cards
Page 2: Cards 7 - 12
Teacher Tip: Cut these cards out and mix them in with the first deck! Use them for morning meetings, advisory blocks, or counselor small-group circles.
Inclusivity
The Name Game Tag
Challenge: Take turns passing an imaginary ball. When you "throw" it to a group member, you must say their name and a nice compliment. Can you pass it to everyone without repeating?
Talk Tactics Card Deck #07
Group Share
