The Compliment Tree brings life lessons to the classroom

I'm double posting today because I have gotten really behind.  But I feel like this activity deserves its own post.  In fact, it went over so well with my Let's Talk About It group that I'm going to incorporate it into all small groups that I work with.

The Compliment Tree isn't an original idea of my own, but I have quickly fallen in love with the results it brings to the group dynamic.  As adults, we all know the value of compliments-- they can make your day.  It's hard to remember that giving compliments is something that you had to learn.  Don't get me wrong, kids say nice things to each other all the time.  However, a little boost encourages them to encourage each other.  I have been so happy to see students congratulating each other on a job well done, boosting each others' self-esteem by pointing out talents, and showing a genuine appreciation for work done by fellow students. 

I started the lesson by showing students a fun PowToon video I made.  You can watch it below:

As I said, students have been giving one another compliments and adding a lot of leaves to our small group tree!  Check out what they've done so far:

Be sure to compliment your student at home, and encourage them to do the same.  It'll brighten your day when they tell you how much they like your shirt, or that they think you are the smartest person in the world.  :)

Have a terrific rest of the week!