Relationship-Building Activities

This lesson focuses on helping 9th-grade students reconnect with each other and their school environment after a vacation. It's important for building a positive classroom community and easing the transition back to school. The session will last 30 minutes and is designed to be engaging and interactive.

A dynamic lesson that guides teachers in crafting an interactive first-day icebreaker incorporating seasonal themes to build community and excitement. This resource helps teachers foster connections and set a welcoming tone for K–12 students in a 45-minute session.

A dynamic 8-session program to help high school students smoothly transition back to school by building routines, confidence, and social connections. This Tier 1 lesson equips all students with strategies for time management, goal setting, and self-care, ensuring they start the year strong. Each 25-minute session includes collaborative discussions, hands-on activities, and guided scripts for teachers.

A fun, interactive SEL back-to-school icebreaker that brings 8th graders and staff together to build community and trust through a collaborative wave activity. This 30-minute Tier 1 session helps students and staff connect, practice emotional awareness, and set a positive tone for the year.

In this one-session 30-minute lesson, 4th-6th grade students will reflect on their school-year experiences, celebrate their accomplishments, and create a collaborative end-of-year card. This Tier 2 group support allows students to process mixed emotions, affirm positive moments, and foster a sense of closure and excitement for next year.

An engaging one-on-one framework for a 9th-grade student to embark on a creative mission to learn about each other’s strengths and interests. This 20-minute MTSS Tier 3 session uses relationship-building activities to set the tone for a supportive classroom environment.

In this 30-minute Kindergarten lesson, students will explore empathy and kindness by connecting to different seasons of the school year. Through read-aloud, discussion, and a fun craft activity, they will practice recognizing feelings and showing kindness to peers. This whole-class Tier 1 lesson sets the tone for a supportive community.

In this 30-minute 3rd grade lesson, students will reflect on their meaningful school-year moments, share personal experiences with peers, and practice empathy by understanding classmates’ feelings. Building empathy strengthens our classroom community and helps students connect more deeply.

In this single 30-minute Tier 1 lesson for 3rd graders, students will reflect on meaningful moments from their school year, share experiences with peers, and practice understanding others’ feelings to strengthen classroom empathy. This lesson builds self-awareness, listening skills, and emotional connection.

In this 15-minute, end-of-year community-building game, fourth-grade students strengthen friendships through memory, movement, and laughter! Perfect for Tier 1 whole-class engagement, this game helps students reflect on shared experiences and celebrate their time together.

A 30-minute Tier 1 reflection activity for 7th graders transitioning to secondary school. Students will reflect on their feelings, goals, and strategies for success to build confidence and excitement for the upcoming year.

In this lesson, 9th graders will engage in quick activities to build supportive relationships. Through ice-breakers and paired discussions, students will practice active listening and empathy, which are crucial skills for developing strong connections with peers. This lesson is important as it helps students feel more connected and supported in their school environment, promoting a positive and inclusive atmosphere.

In this engaging 9th-grade lesson, students will explore the importance of connections and relationships in their lives through fun activities and games. This lesson aims to foster a sense of community and enhance interpersonal skills, making it relevant and applicable to students' everyday experiences. The session will last 45 minutes and is designed to be inclusive for all students, providing a supportive environment for learning and growth.

This 30-minute end-of-year SEL lesson for transitional kindergarten students helps them reflect on their growth, celebrate friendships, and practice gratitude and empathy through a fun group activity. It’s designed to strengthen the classroom community and leave students feeling appreciated and connected.

In this 30-minute 3rd grade lesson, students will reflect on memorable moments from their school year, share experiences with classmates, and practice empathy by exploring peers’ feelings. By recognizing and appreciating each other’s experiences, they strengthen classroom connections and understanding.

In this lesson, students will explore how the change in seasons can impact their feelings. Through a creative art project, each student will draw a seasonal tree and write their feelings on the leaves. This activity encourages emotional expression and reflection, helping young students to connect their emotions with environmental changes, fostering self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

In this 30-minute, single-session lesson, 3rd graders will reflect on their school year through the lens of empathy. Students will recall meaningful moments, share with classmates, and practice understanding others’ feelings—strengthening classroom community and social-emotional skills.

Students explore how building and nurturing positive connections supports their emotional and social well-being. This 1-session lesson for middle schoolers uses interactive activities to strengthen relationship skills and self-awareness.

In this single 15-minute Tier 2 small-group morning meeting, 4th graders will learn how to build and strengthen friendships through engaging activities. This lesson fosters social skills, empathy, and positive peer connections, helping support students who need extra friendship-building practice.

In this single 15-minute Tier 1 lesson for 4th graders, students will participate in two community circles to celebrate end-of-year achievements, build connections, and share reflections. These circles foster classroom community, encourage empathy, and leave students with positive closure as the school year ends.

In this 30-minute 3rd grade Tier 1 lesson, students will reflect on meaningful moments from their school year, share experiences with peers, and practice empathy by recognizing others’ feelings. This lesson builds classroom community and social-emotional skills.

In this 45-minute, whole-class Tier 1 lesson for 10th graders, students will explore their social supports, identify friendship strengths, and foster positive peer connections over one session. This engaging activity helps students build awareness of healthy relationships and teamwork skills essential for emotional well-being and community building.

This one-session, 30-minute welcome back activity helps 8th graders reconnect, build community, and set positive intentions for the year. Through fun icebreakers and reflection prompts, students will feel seen and excited. Grade 8, Tier 1, 30 mins.

In this lesson, students will gather in a circle to share their holiday experiences and new year hopes. This open dialogue encourages empathy and understanding, providing students with a sense of connection and community as they reflect on shared experiences and future aspirations. This lesson is important as it helps students develop social-emotional skills, such as active listening and empathy, which are crucial for building a supportive classroom environment.

In this 15-minute session, 4th graders engage in fun community-building exercises to deepen connections with classmates they already know. This activity helps strengthen trust, communication, and empathy, setting a positive tone for the school year. Tier 1, Classroom-wide support.

In this interactive small group activity, students participate in a 'snowball' game where they write and share things about themselves to discover common interests. This lesson helps students build connections and understand each other better.

In this 30-minute, one-session lesson, 3rd graders explore the concept of school climate, why it matters, and how they can help create a welcoming, positive environment for everyone. This Tier 1 lesson builds community, empathy, and a sense of belonging—key ingredients for student success.

This lesson aims to help students understand the importance of building relationships through communication and teamwork. The activities will engage students in discussions and a fun physical game, strengthening their ability to connect with others.

This lesson engages students in a game-based activity designed to help them introduce themselves and build new friendships. Through a series of interactive and collaborative tasks, students will learn effective communication and social skills. This lesson is important as it fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is crucial for students' social-emotional development and well-being.

Small-group reading and discussion that links local culture and student experiences to strengthen community bonds. This Tier 2 session for a 9th Grade group takes 35 minutes and helps students explore local heroes, share experiences, and map personal connections to foster a positive school climate.

In this 45-minute group lesson, 8th grade students will co-create a vision board of hopes and strategies for the school year using mixed media. This Tier 2 activity fosters collaboration, goal-setting, and self-expression, helping students build a positive mindset and peer support network as they transition back to school.

A one-on-one academic coaching tool for a 10th-grade student, focusing on setting and achieving short-term goals mapped to the four seasons over four sessions of 20 minutes each. This Tier 3 individualized lesson helps visualize progress, build motivation, and ensure consistent check-ins by aligning goals with real-world seasonal themes.

This engaging 7th-grade lesson is designed to welcome students back from break by reigniting their enthusiasm for learning. Through a mix of activities, discussions, and games, students will reflect on their past achievements and set new goals, making the transition back to school smooth and exciting. The lesson is structured for a single 60-minute session and aims to create a positive and motivating classroom environment.

A lively classroom activity that helps students tune into peers’ emotions and foster empathy through nonverbal cues—key for strong summer friendships. This Tier 1 lesson for 5th graders spans a single 30-minute session and builds vital social-emotional skills through interactive games and guided discussion.

This lesson involves forming small groups where students can share personal experiences and listen to one another. The activity aims to strengthen empathy and understanding, fostering a supportive classroom environment as students return from break. This lesson is important as it helps students develop social-emotional skills, enhances their ability to empathize with peers, and builds a strong, supportive class community.

This lesson encourages 7th graders to reflect on their relationships with peers and how these relationships have evolved over time. Through a combination of experiential learning and collaborative discussion, students will engage in activities that promote self-awareness and empathy. This lesson is important as it helps students develop social-emotional skills, fostering a supportive and understanding classroom environment.

This lesson provides students with the opportunity to check in with their emotions and set personal goals for the school year. It includes activities that focus on self-awareness and emotional intelligence, helping students to start the school year with a positive mindset. This lesson is important as it encourages students to reflect on their emotions, understand their feelings, and set achievable goals, fostering a supportive and empathetic classroom environment.

This 3-session lesson for 3rd graders focuses on developing friendship-building skills, essential for social-emotional growth. Students will engage in activities that promote understanding, empathy, and effective communication, helping them form and maintain positive relationships.

In this lesson, students will collaboratively create a 'Friendship Tree' where each leaf represents a positive trait or act of kindness from their classmates. This activity fosters a caring and inclusive classroom atmosphere, encouraging students to recognize and celebrate each other's contributions to the community. By participating in this project, students will develop social-emotional skills such as empathy, teamwork, and appreciation for diversity.

In this Tier 2 small-group lesson for 5th graders, students will strengthen social skills by exploring qualities of good friends, practicing empathy, and developing strategies for resolving conflicts. This 30-minute session helps students build supportive peer relationships and fosters a positive classroom community.

In this one-session, 30-minute Tier 1 end-of-year counseling lesson, 3rd graders will reflect on their emotional and academic growth, celebrate successes, and set intentions for summer. This engaging wrap-up helps students recognize their achievements, process feelings about transitioning to 4th grade, and build a positive classroom community.

This two-session lesson for 6th graders focuses on teaching students the essential skills for making and maintaining friendships. Through engaging activities and discussions, students will learn how to initiate conversations, show empathy, and build trust. This lesson is crucial for developing social skills that will help students navigate their social environments more effectively.

This small group session will engage students in activities that foster empathy and understanding, crucial components of healthy relationships. Empathy helps students connect with others and build supportive networks.

In this 30-minute Tier 2 counseling group session for 2nd-grade EL and Title I students, participants will explore core social skills for making and maintaining friendships. Through guided discussions, interactive activities, and reflection, students will practice cooperation, communication, and empathy to strengthen peer connections.

An engaging, one-session social-emotional lesson designed for 7th graders at the start of the school year to build community, trust, and open communication. This Tier 1 classroom lesson helps students form positive relationships and set the tone for a supportive learning environment in just 30 minutes.

A whole-class lesson that explores active listening and icebreaker activities to strengthen peer connections. Builds foundational relationship skills for a positive classroom environment. Audience: 5th Grade, 1 session, 45 minutes.

This 5-session mini-unit helps first graders understand relationships by exploring friendship, empathy, communication, and cooperation. With 15-minute sessions, students will develop social skills essential for healthy connections.

In this 30-minute small group activity, 5th graders will develop key social skills—initiating conversations, active listening, and empathy—through interactive icebreakers and role-play. This Tier 2 session boosts students’ confidence in everyday interactions and strengthens peer connections.

This lesson focuses on enhancing social bonds among students during the winter months, a time when feelings of isolation can be more prevalent. Through engaging team-building exercises and communication skills workshops, students will learn to connect more effectively with their peers. This lesson is important as it fosters a supportive classroom environment, encourages empathy, and helps students develop essential social skills.

Small-group discussions and exercises that build students’ ability to understand and share feelings, strengthening peer relationships. This Tier 2 lesson for a 5th grade group spans one 35-minute session focusing on school climate and peer empathy.

This is a 30-minute Tier 2 small-group workshop for 6th graders focused on CASEL Relationship Skills—empathy and cooperation. Students will engage in interactive activities to practice perspective-taking, collaborate on role-play challenges, and reflect on supportive peer interactions.

In this 30-minute small-group icebreaker for 5th graders, students build trust and showcase their unique strengths through a collaborative drawing and storytelling activity. This Tier 2 lesson fosters connection and empathy, helping students feel valued and ready for the school year.

In this lesson, students will use a gardening metaphor to explore how to nurture and grow friendships. Through activities like creating a 'Friendship Growth Plan' and engaging in collaborative projects, students will learn the importance of positive connections. This lesson is important as it helps students develop social-emotional skills, such as empathy and teamwork, which are crucial for their personal and academic growth.

In this lesson, students will participate in Winter Reflection Circles, where they will share one thing they learned about themselves this year and one thing they hope to achieve in the coming months. This activity encourages self-reflection, active listening, and empathy, fostering a sense of community and personal growth. It is important as it helps students connect with their peers and reflect on their personal development.

In this lesson, students will participate in a collaborative activity where they pass a ball of yarn to each other, sharing something they learned over break or a positive intention for the new year. This activity creates a visual web that connects students, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among peers. This lesson is important as it helps students build connections and empathy, enhancing their social skills and creating a supportive classroom environment.

In this 5th grade, Tier 1, 60-minute lesson, students will explore what contributes to a positive school climate. By auditing their environment and reflecting on feelings, they'll identify strengths and areas for growth, empowering them to help create a more welcoming school. Materials include interactive discussions, activities, and reflections.

In this lesson, students will engage in a creative group activity where they present icebreaker self-portraits, highlighting aspects of their identity and goals for the new term. This activity helps foster a sense of belonging and mutual understanding among peers, which is crucial for building a supportive classroom environment. By expressing themselves through art, students can explore their personal identities and connect with classmates on a deeper level.

In this 60-minute Tier 1 lesson for 8th graders, students will practice conversational skills and empathy to build meaningful connections with classmates. This lesson fosters a supportive classroom community by guiding students through interactive activities that promote active listening, personal sharing, and collaborative dialogue.

A one-session, 30-minute group lesson for 1st graders exploring end-of-year feelings and transitions. Students will recognize and name their emotions, practice expressing them, and build coping strategies for the upcoming break—an essential step for social-emotional growth, especially for multilingual learners through UDL supports.

In this two-session, kindergarten-ready counseling series, students will build connections, explore feelings, and establish a positive classroom community. These lessons foster social-emotional skills, promote inclusion, and set the tone for a supportive school year.

In this 15-minute one-on-one counseling session, the counselor aims to build rapport with 9th graders using warm, inviting, and thoughtful questions and a simple reflective activity. Establishing trust quickly is crucial for supporting students’ mental health, setting the stage for future help-seeking and emotional well-being.

In this engaging 30-minute session, 5th graders will reflect on the year’s social growth, practice key relationship skills, and set goals for middle school. This Tier 2 social skills group helps students build confidence, gratitude, and planning for future friendships. Includes interactive activities, reflection prompts, and a fun closing ritual.

In this 20-minute summer school social skills lesson, 4th graders will learn how to start conversations, show empathy, and build friendships. These foundational skills will help students feel confident interacting with peers all summer and beyond.

In this lesson, students will engage in team-building exercises designed to enhance peer relationships and teamwork. Through activities focusing on listening, communication, and mutual support, students will foster a deeper sense of connection with their peers. This lesson is important as it helps students develop essential social skills that are crucial for their personal and academic growth.

In this five-session, 6th-grade back-to-school series, students will dive into fun, interactive activities designed to break the ice, build trust, and foster a positive classroom community. Each 30-minute session features a unique team-based challenge that encourages communication, creativity, and collaboration—essential skills for a successful school year.

In this 30-minute small-group session, 6th grade students with autism will reflect on their transition to middle school, social-emotional growth, coping skills learned, challenges faced, and set goals for 7th grade. This end-of-year activity helps students consolidate their experiences, build self-awareness, and prepare for the next school year.

In this brief session, students will explore the core elements of supportive relationships and engage in an activity to identify supportive figures in their lives. This lesson is important as it helps students recognize the value of supportive relationships in enhancing their well-being, fostering a sense of belonging, and building resilience.

Designed for upper elementary to high school students, this lesson helps ease anxiety around seasonal transitions and encourages students to view change as an opportunity. Through activities and discussions, students will prepare emotionally for summer, focusing on potential growth and new adventures.

In this lesson, students will explore and share their own cultural and familial holiday traditions. This activity aims to foster a sense of community and appreciation for diversity within the classroom. By learning about each other's traditions, students will develop empathy and understanding, which are crucial for building a supportive and inclusive environment.

This lesson involves a scavenger hunt where students interact with classmates based on given clues. It encourages communication, teamwork, and the forming of new friendships. This activity is important as it helps young students develop social skills, learn to work together, and build a sense of community in the classroom.

In this 60-minute PD session, high school teachers will explore strategies to promote social connectedness and foster a positive school climate, using the JED Foundation’s comprehensive approach to student mental health and suicide prevention. This session equips educators with practical activities and reflection tools to strengthen relationships, build community, and create safe, supportive learning environments. Audience: 30 teachers, Tier 2 group support.