An early elementary social-emotional learning lesson introducing students to trusted school staff members and teaching practical communication scripts for seeking help when lost, hurt, or sad. Students practice identifying helpers, matching scenarios, and speaking up with confidence.
Let's chant together: "Excuse me! My name is ____. I need help!"
Detective Challenge
Who Should You Ask?
Mystery Game
CLUE 1
The Recess Slide Tumble
"You were running to tag your friend, tripped on a wood chip, and your knee is bleeding."
Who do you look for? The School Nurse! 🩹
CLUE 2
The Hallway Turnaround
"You walked out of the restroom, but your class line is gone and all the doors look the same."
Who do you look for? Main Office or Teacher! 🏫
Super Detective Rule: ANY grown-up with a school badge will help you find the right place!
Helper Detective Badge
Ready for Action!
Our Helper Pledge!
"I am safe at school. I am never alone."
"If I am lost, hurt, or sad, I will speak up with pride."
"School helpers are my friends!"
Next Step: Grab your Helper Hunt Passport and begin the quest!
Let's Go! 🚀
The Custodian
Riddle 2
"You bumped your forehead playing tag at morning recess and you have a sore bump that needs cold ice."
The School Nurse
Riddle 3
"The dismissal bell rang, but you forget which bus you ride today and your backpack tag came off."
The Main Office
Riddle 4
"You are missing your family and having tears during quiet reading time. You need a safe space to breathe."
The Counselor
My School Pocket Lifeline Card (Keep in Backpack!)
Cut Out & Keep
My Full Name:
My Teacher's Name:
My Classroom Room #:
How I Go Home (Bus # / Walker / Car):
"If I ever feel lost, I can show this card to any grown-up wearing a school staff badge!"
The Helper Hunt • Interactive Game & Safety Badge Passport Page 2
At dismissal, Elena walks to the bus loop. There are five big yellow buses in a row, and she cannot remember if she takes Bus 4 or Bus 9.
Question: Who holds a clipboard at the bus door that can check Elena’s name?
💬 "Excuse me, I'm Elena in Mrs. Lee's class. Which bus is mine?"
Scenario Card 6 FRIENDSHIP
Left Out at Tag
Kareem asked three classmates if he could join their four-square game. They said "No, we have enough people." Kareem's feelings are hurt and he feels lonely.
Question: Can a recess teacher or counselor help you find other friends or invite you into a new game?
💬 "Excuse me, I'm feeling left out. Can you help me find friends to play with?"
Scenario Card 7 BODY CHECK
The Warm Forehead
During carpet reading, Lucas feels very hot and dizzy. His throat hurts when he swallows and he rests his head on the floor.
Question: Should Lucas wait and hide it, or tell his teacher right away?
💬 "Teacher, my body feels very hot and unwell. May I go see the nurse?"
Scenario Card 8 SAFETY
The Broken Gate Latch
While retrieving a soccer ball, Zoe notices the playground fence gate is swinging open toward the parking lot and cars are driving past.
Question: Is Zoe allowed to leave the playground? Who should she alert immediately?
💬 "Excuse me! The fence gate is open by the parking lot."
Circle Reflection & Community Pledge
Question 1
Why does asking for help show BRAVERY instead of weakness?
Question 2
How do school helpers feel when they get to help a student?
Question 3
What should you do if your friend feels too shy to speak up?
The Helper Hunt • Discussion Prompt Deck Sheet 2 of 2
