Teaching Kids to Tame Negative Thinking
You can teach students how to challenge negative thinking with simple step by step activities that help them develop realistic thinking.
ReadAbout This Resource
Help students recognize that predictions aren't facts and give them a clear strategy to challenge anxious thinking.
Students need a structured way to tackle negative thoughts that treat bad outcomes as certain. This activity includes 10 relatable scenarios and a 3-question framework (Check the Facts, Check the Track Record, What's Likely?) that guides students in evaluating their predictions step by step.
With this resource, you'll be able to:
-
Teach students to separate predictions from facts.
-
Give them a repeatable process they can use independently.
-
Help students develop more realistic, balanced thoughts about uncertain situations.
What's Included
- Intro to Fortune Telling with Example: Walk through the complete 3-question process together using a sample scenario, so students understand how to check their predictions before working independently.
- Mini-Book Format: 10 Scenarios with 3 question pages: Check the Facts, Check the Track Record, and What's Likely?
- Worksheet Format: All-in-one format with a scenario and all three questions on a single page. Great for quick sessions or when you want everything in one place.
- Blank Template: Create your own scenarios or have students apply the process to their personal situations. Editable Powerpoint file with worksheet template and mini-book page
22 pages | PDF + Editable PowerPoint | Black & white included for all materials
How It Works
-
Introduce the concept using the full-page example. Walk through the 3 questions together.
-
Give students a flip book or worksheet with a new scenario.
-
Students work through the process: Check the Facts, Check the Track Record, What's Likely.
-
Discuss and reframe: brainstorm a more helpful thought based on what they learned.
Time: 10-20 minutes per scenario
Prep: Print and go (cut flip book pages if using that format)
What You'll Love
-
10 ready-to-use scenarios covering common kid worries (tests, performances, new situations, social events).
-
Flip book OR worksheet format
-
Black & white included for all materials.
-
Editable blank template so you can add your own scenarios.
-
Simple 3-question process students can remember and reuse.
Perfect If
-
You work with upper elementary or middle school students (grades 4-7)
-
You're looking for a CBT-based tool for challenging negative predictions
-
You want something structured but easy to implement
-
You need flexible formats for individual or small group work
Details
-
Grade Levels: 4-7
-
Ideal For: Individual counseling, small groups
-
Prep Time: Minimal, print and go
-
Materials Needed: None beyond printing
-
Format: PDF (22 pages) + Editable PowerPoint
-
Printing: Black & white for all materials
Copyright © Social Emotional Workshop. Permission to copy for a single user only. All Rights Reserved. Please purchase additional licenses if you intend to share this product.