Teach your child to *THINK* before they speak – to consider the impact of their words (vs. their intent). A helpful framework to teach your child to be empathetic with their language and that words have power.
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“Think before you speak” – what exactly does that mean? A child will often wonder “What do you want me to ‘think’ about?” if you ask them to “Think before you speak.” Here’s a helpful way to spell it out concretely.
Core Marbles
- T – Is it True?
- H – Is it Helpful?
- I – Is it Inspiring?
- N – Is it Necessary?
- K – Is it Kind?
It’s often hard for a child to pause – to *THINK* – before they speak. It’s often hard for a child to consider the ‘impact’ of their words (vs. their intent). So one of the simplest tools we can teach them is the *THINK* framework that serves as a friendly prompt. (It’s why it’s found in many classrooms.)
Empathy is a learned skill and it comes more naturally for some than for others, which is why using *THINK* may take practice. Use our favorite printables below to help your child keep *THINK* top-of-mind (especially impactful for emerging readers):
- Printable #1 – Cut it out, punch a hole through it and attach it to your child’s backpack.
- Printable #2 – A great coloring activity. Personalize it!
- Printable #3 – Print and put it up in high-traffic areas as a friendly, daily prompt.
Model and rehearse *with* your child to remind them that words have power. Just watch.