Dr. King's Dream - How Kids Choose Praise Over Gossip
Gossip and Looking for the Worst in Others
Meet Alexa and Tony. Both are gossipy 10 year-olds. They like bad-mouthing the kids in their 5th grade. It helps them feel superior.
Alexa: Did you see Noah's glasses?
Tony: "So ugly!"
Alexa: “I agree.”
Tony: "Nobody likes him."
Alexa: "He thinks he so cool."
Tony: “Yah. He has the biggest house in town.”
Alexa: “They have 2 Teslas in their garage.”
Tony: "He’s so spoiled. He gets everything he wants."
Alexa: "Right! I hate hearing him brag about his video games."
Because Noah had more toys, the biggest house, and expensive cars, they felt envious. They told themselves, “I’m not spoiled like Noah. I’m better than him.”
If looking for the worst in others become a habit, Alexa and Tony could become gossipy adults.
Praise and Looking for the Best in Others
Meet Calvin. He’s in the same 5th grade as Alexa and Tony.
His easy laughter and friendly smiles draw kids to him.
Noah asked Calvin to his birthday party. Noah didn’t invite Alexa and Tony. Calvin noticed that mostly adults and few classmates attended.
“I like how you made your invitations, Noah, especially with your cat pawing the cake. Would you help me draw like you?"
Later, Calvin asked if they could play video games.
When they finished, Calvin told Noah, “You're good at making those car racing decisions.” Everybody agreed. Noah felt like he was starting to fit in. He smiled at Calvin for helping him.
Calvin looks for the good and finds it. He shared it with Noah too.
Other students sense Calvin's positivity and want to be his friend.
If Calvin makes "looking for the good" a habit, he could become an effective leader today and in the future.
What Do You Think?
How did Alexa's and Tony’s mindsets differ from Calvin’s?
Who, in your judgment, had the better attitude?
If you chose Calvin’s attitude, check out the following Slide Share.
Dr. Martin Luther King's Dream - How Kids Pay It Forward
In this slide share you’ll find 3 ways to seek and share the good in others. And 3 ways to seek the good outside the family. My Family Compliment Weekend, a special technique, is waiting inside for you.
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