Better Together Lesson Plan
Better Together
Supporting Changes & Kindness
Objective
Students will understand that change is a natural part of school life and practice showing kindness to a peer during a transition.
Duration
45 - 60 Minutes
Grade Level
2nd Grade (Ages 7-8)
Materials Needed
- "Growing Different Ways" Slides
- Chart paper & markers
- "My Changing Heart" worksheets
- Markers, crayons, & glue
- Large construction paper for cards
- Calming music for reflection
1. The Hook: Small Changes (10 mins)
Begin by asking students about small changes they've experienced (new shoes, a different lunch, a new seat). Use a "Turn and Talk" strategy.
"Class, sometimes we have big changes and sometimes we have small ones. Today we are going to talk about a change in our classroom family."
2. Social Story & News (15 mins)
Present the "Growing Different Ways" slides. This story frames the peer's move as a way for them to get the specific support they need to be successful.
Key Messaging Points:
- We all learn in different ways.
- [Student Name] is moving to a new classroom to get extra help with their learning and behavior goals.
- We will miss them, but we are happy they are getting what they need.
3. Group Discussion Guide (15 mins)
Discussion Prompts:
Prompt A: "How do you feel when you hear about this change? It's okay to feel happy, sad, or even confused."
Prompt B: "What does 'support' mean? How do we support each other in this room?"
Prompt C: "What are some ways we can be kind to [Student Name] before they head to their new room?"
4. Closure & Activity (20 mins)
Transition students to the "Friendship Forever" card-making activity and the "My Changing Heart" reflection page. End with a group circle where students share one thing they appreciate about their peer.
Handling Tough Questions
Q: "Is it because they were bad?"
Response: "No one is 'bad.' We all have different needs. Sometimes we need a different space or more teachers to help us learn the best way. This move is to make sure [Student Name] has everything they need to be successful."
Q: "Will they ever come back?"
Response: "For now, this is their new classroom home. We might see them at recess or in the hallway, and we can always say hello with a kind wave!"
Growing Different Ways Slides
Growing in Different Ways
A Story About Change & Kindness
Our classroom is like a little family. We learn, play, and grow together every single day.
Sometimes, things in our classroom change. A friend might move to a new desk, or a new student might join us.
Change is a natural part of growing up!
We all learn in different ways.
Some friends need a quiet space. Some friends need extra help from teachers. Some friends need a different routine.
One of our friends is moving to a new classroom!
In their new room, they will have the extra support they need to be the best student they can be.
How do you feel about this change?
A Little Sad
Confused
Caring
Any feeling you have is totally okay.
We can still be kind and supportive!
Let’s send our friend off with big smiles and kind hearts as they start their new journey.
Friendship Forever Activity
Thinking of You!
A special message for our friend
My Name
Date
Draw a happy picture or a fun memory here!
One thing I like about you is...
My wish for you in your new classroom is...
My Changing Heart Reflection
My Changing Heart
Reflecting on our classroom changes
Name
Date
One word that describes how I feel today is:
Happy Sad Confused Helpful Brave
One way I can be a kind friend to [Student Name] is:
My Heart Garden
Draw things that make you feel happy and safe when things change (like your family, friends, or a favorite hobby).
We are all in this together!