Below are some effective strategies and common language to use with your children at home.   This will help your children understand that these skills are important, and that they are supported and encouraged by their support system at school, and at home.

"I" Messages

An "I" message is used to tell someone how you feel about something they have done. However, it can certainly be used when you are happy about something as well.  The Elementary School Counselors teach, review, and reinforce "I" messages with students from Kindergarten through third grade.

Building an "I" Message
1.  Use the person’s name
2. Tell how you feel
3. Tell the problem
4. Tell what you want

Examples:
"Sara, I feel mad when you don't listen to me. I want you to listen to me when I'm talking to you."

"David, I feel sad when you call me names. Please stop calling me names."

“Tim, I feel happy when you include me in a game at recess.  I would like you to include me in more games during recess.”