Talking · Listening
Pass the praise circle
In a circle, each person says one specific, kind thing about the person next to them, then talk about how praise helps people grow.
- 15 minutes
- Whole class
- Ages 5–7, Ages 7–9, Ages 9–12
- Classroom
- Printable: planning sheet
What to do
- Sit in a circle. Read the saying and its meaning: praise the young and they will flourish.
- Talk about the difference between "you are nice" and something specific, like "you helped me find my coat."
- The person holding the object says one kind, specific thing to the person on their left, then passes it.
- The person who hears the praise says thank you. Anyone who is stuck can pass and come back later.
- Keep going until everyone has given and received praise.
Questions to talk about
- How did it feel to hear something kind about yourself?
- Why might praise help someone get better at something?
- Who could you praise at home today?
You will need
- A soft object to pass round
Make it fit
Simpler: Give everyone a starter: "I like it when you..."
More of a stretch: Praise effort rather than talent, for example: "You kept trying with your reading."
Sayings used
Printables
The instructions card is for the adult running the activity; the worksheet is for the children. Prints on A4 or US Letter at 100% / actual size; colour is optional.
The planning sheet
Pass the praise circle
Name
After the circle, remember the praise.
The instructions card
How to run it · Talking · Listening
Pass the praise circle
In a circle, each person says one specific, kind thing about the person next to them, then talk about how praise helps people grow.
15 minutesWhole classAges 5–7, Ages 7–9, Ages 9–12
What to do
- Sit in a circle. Read the saying and its meaning: praise the young and they will flourish.
- Talk about the difference between "you are nice" and something specific, like "you helped me find my coat."
- The person holding the object says one kind, specific thing to the person on their left, then passes it.
- The person who hears the praise says thank you. Anyone who is stuck can pass and come back later.
- Keep going until everyone has given and received praise.
You will need
- A soft object to pass round
Talk about
- How did it feel to hear something kind about yourself?
- Why might praise help someone get better at something?
- Who could you praise at home today?
Make it fit
Simpler: Give everyone a starter: "I like it when you..."
Stretch: Praise effort rather than talent, for example: "You kept trying with your reading."
Goes with the printable planning sheet.