Most school counselors know the activity - IALAC (I Am Lovable And Capable) - in which students where some form of paper product on their back and peers walk around writing positive messages about the person on the paper product. It's a perfect activity to use as a keepsake for students.
The "I CAN" activity is similar...but students will create their own examples of what they CAN do, write on a slip of paper, and put in their own "I CAN!" On a rough day, they can open up the "I CAN" and read some of their strengths as pick-me-ups!
Trying to think of an economical can to use/buy, I searched my kitchen cabinets for ideas. There I found some cleaned icing containers which I thought would be perfect to use for this activity. I knew I kept those containers for a reason!!
I covered the plastic containers with scrapbooking paper and cut a hole in each lid. Next I added a label of "I CAN." I made one can for each student in the small group. I can't get over how cute these are! They are the perfect size and the lid can be easily removed to look inside.
After a lesson on strengths and weaknesses, I gave each student one of my creations. I discussed how to use the "I CAN" and we brainstormed a few examples to put inside. During the subsequent group session, we talked about "I CAN" slips they dropped inside over the course of the week prior.
This is such a cute idea! Your cans look awesome. I have a group that could really benefit from this. Thanks for sharing! :)
ReplyDeletecute idea! I do the shield activity (similar to this) where students create a shield out of paper with all of the things they are proud of, like about themselves, etc. They are told to use it to protect their feelings (when someone uses unkind words, rumors, gossip, etc), just like a knight would use a shield to protect his body. I have a new Self-Esteem group starting Friday...now I'm going to be in search of cans! :)
ReplyDeleteTraci -- hope your kiddos like the cans as much as mine did. I always find I have to spend some time on focusing on positive personal attributes...the kids have such a hard time coming up with things they are good at. Hence the self-esteem group...they tend to focus on their weaknesses!
DeleteAllison - thanks so much!
ReplyDeleteJust found your blog - it's awesome! Thanks for posting such fun ideas.
ReplyDeleteBarbara
The Corner On Character
Thanks Barbara! Hope you're finding some fresh ideas!
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