Today we will be talking about some big words. Those words are Optimistic Thinking. What part of our body do we use when we are thinking? That’s right! Our brain. So we are using our brain for this lesson. What does the word Optimistic mean? That’s a hard one. (allow students to try to figure it out).

The word optimistic means to stay positive. That may mean not giving up when something is hard. Or trying to stay positive when we may be upset about something. The reason this lesson is important is because when you are an adult someday, you are going to do things that are difficult for you. But what I want you to remember is that if something is difficult or hard for you, you will be able to overcome that difficulty if you stay positive and keep trying.

Materials needed: Roll of yarn

Game Expectations: Students sit in a circle and think of something they are not good at, yet. As they say what they are not good at yet, they toss the ball of string to the next person. When each person has had a turn, have them carefully stand with their brain map. Point out that these are “not yet” connections and when they find support, balance, time, courage, resiliency, strategy, a path, practice, etc., then the connections will get stronger.

Materials needed: Penny for each student, Space

Game Expectations: Each student will need a penny and space to flip it. The student places a penny on their forearm and flips it into the palm of their hand. You may want to tell students they have a limited amount of time and set a timer (5-10 minutes is more than enough time). Once they have finished the challenge, come together to discuss the following:

• What did you learn from today’s challenge?
• How did you keep going when you struggled?
• What steps did you take to make you successful today?
• What are some different strategies you could have used?
• If you had more time or a hint, do you think you would have been more successful?