Friendly Fences Slides Friendly Fences
Speaking Up with Kindness & Strength
What is a Boundary?
A boundary is like an invisible fence for our feelings and bodies.
"It tells people how we want to be treated so we can all stay happy friends!"
The Assertive Look
Eyes
Look at their face
Body
Stand tall like a tree
Voice
Strong and calm
Not too soft, not too mean... just right!
The "Bug & Wish" Tool
1
"It bugs me when..."
2
"I wish you would..."
Scenario: The Pencil Problem
A friend takes your shiny pencil without asking.
Bug: "It bugs me when you take my things without asking."
Wish: "I wish you would ask me first next time."
Scenario: Space Invader
A friend is standing too close and bumping your shoulder.
Bug: "It bugs me when you stand so close and bump me."
Wish: "I wish you would give me some personal space."
Your Turn!
Grab a partner and your script cards.
Boundary Boss Teacher Guide Boundary Boss Teacher Guide
Small Group Assertive Speaking Skills
Grade 2
Learning Objective
Students will identify personal boundaries and practice using assertive body language and the "Bug and Wish" strategy to communicate needs to friends respectfully.
Materials Needed
Friendly Fences Slides
Role Play Script Cards
Assertive Ally Worksheet
1. The Hook: What's a Boundary? (5 mins)
Use Slide 2
Ask: "Why do gardens have fences?" (To keep things safe, show where one yard ends).
Explain: We have "invisible fences" too. These are our boundaries . They tell friends how we like to be treated.
2. The Assertive Look (7 mins)
Use Slide 3
Demonstrate three ways of speaking:
Passive:
Aggressive:
Assertive:
Activity: "Statue Mode" — Have students practice their assertive pose when you say "Boundary Boss!"
3. The Bug and Wish (8 mins)
Use Slide 4
Teach the core assertive formula:
"It bugs me when you [behavior]. I wish you would [positive action]."
Example: "It bugs me when you grab my pencil. I wish you would ask first."
Practice as a group: Model a few "bugs" and "wishes" using Slides 5 & 6.
4. Role Play Practice (15 mins)
Use Role Play Script Cards
Split into pairs. One person is the "Boundary Breaker" and the other is the "Boundary Boss."
Have students choose a card. They should practice their Assertive Look while speaking.
Teacher Tip: If a student feels mean, remind them that being clear is a way to be a kind friend!
5. Reflection & Closing (5 mins)
Ask: "Which part of being a Boundary Boss was easiest? Which was hardest?"
Distribute the Assertive Ally Worksheet for independent practice.
Role Play Script Cards Role Play Script Cards
Cut these out to practice being a Boundary Boss!
Scenario 1
The Pencil Problem
A friend takes your favorite shiny pencil right off your desk without asking.
Plan your words:
"It bugs me when you..."
"I wish you would..."
Scenario 2
Space Invader
A friend is standing so close to you that their shoulder is bumping into you.
Plan your words:
"It bugs me when you..."
"I wish you would..."
Scenario 3
The Game Choice
Your friend always picks the game at recess and never lets you choose.
Plan your words:
"It bugs me when you..."
"I wish you would..."
Scenario 4
The Silly Name
A friend keeps calling you a nickname that you don't like.
Plan your words:
"It bugs me when you..."
"I wish you would..."
Assertive Look: Eyes on face, Body tall like a tree, Voice clear and firm!
Assertive Ally Worksheet Assertive Ally Practice
Name:
Date:
Boundary Boss
1 The Assertive Look
How do you look when you are being assertive? Circle the 3 right answers:
Eyes on the floor
Looking at face
Standing tall
Slouching low
Calm, clear voice
Yelling / mean face
2 Write Your Own!
Scenario: A friend is cutting in front of you in the lunch line.
"It bugs me when..."
"I wish you would..."
3 Draw Yourself as a Boundary Boss!
Draw a picture of you standing tall and using your strong, kind voice.
Draw Here
