FAMILY: Be a Safe Happy Family
ColorQuotes For Goal Achievers
Lesson Idea Poster & Goal-Setting Postcard
FOR TOPIC: FAMILY
Be a Safe Happy Family
These are easy lessons & goal motivators. Children and youth can use the QUOTES listed to discuss and plan goals for CHURCH & HOME.
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How to Make and Use the Cards
- Print the cards on cardstock paper.
- If mailing, write a personal note on the left, the address on the right, and a postcard stamp in the top-right corner.
- Teachers, parents, grandparents, and church or home goal challengers can use these cards.
- Print in black and white so children can color them.
- When children reach their goal, have them write on the back what they did and how it went.
- Reward them with a colored GOAL ACHIEVER card!
Let’s Be Goal Diggers!
Goals help us grow, learn, and feel good about ourselves. We can help each other reach our goals, too!
Use the ColorQuote cards or posters to talk about each goal. Color the pictures while you talk, share ideas, and think of ways to practice the goal.
On the back of each card, write or draw one or two things you want to try over the next few weeks.
You can do this in just 5 minutes or enjoy a 20-minute family or classroom discussion. Children and teens can even take turns teaching the goals!
Let’s start building a safe, happy family, one goal at a time.
You will find two sets of GOAL DISCUSSIONS (going deeper with each goal): (1) for children, and (2) for youth/teens. Each set of discussions will suggest ideas to help them achieve the main goals (and specific ways to achieve each goal and discuss each goal).
The detailed information need not overwhelm you; just take one topic at a time to discuss at the dinner table, while carpooling to school, on a family vacation, or CHILDREN/YOUTH Goal discussions. Grandparents can tell of their experiences with each goal. Enjoy.
GOAL MOTIVATORS FOR CHILDREN
(Goals #1-7 found on the card or poster)
(teen ideas are available)
1. “KIND WORDS BRING JOY!”
Goals for Children
ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO SAY “PLEASE,” “THANK YOU,” AND “I’M SORRY.”
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What can you say when you ask someone for something?
• What words can you use when someone gives you something?
• What can you say if you accidentally hurt someone’s feelings?
• How do you feel when someone says “thank you” to you?
• Why is it important to say “please” and “thank you”?
• What could you say if you accidentally knock over your friend’s blocks?
ASK THEM TO GIVE A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER A COMPLIMENT
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What does it mean to give someone a compliment (pat on the back)?
• What do you like about your friend or family member?
EXAMPLES: She spends time with me, is honest, has courage, is kind and thoughtful, listens to what I say, plays games with me, is reliable, can be trusted, helps me with homework or chores.
• What makes your family members special?
• How do you feel when someone says something nice to you?
• What kind words could you say to make your friend smile?
• Can you tell your friend something you like about them?
• How can we make other people feel special?
READ STORIES ABOUT KINDNESS AND DISCUSS HOW WORDS MAKE OTHERS FEEL
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Who was kind in the story?
• What kind words did the characters use?
• How do you think the character felt when someone spoke kindly to them?
• How might the character feel if someone said something unkind?
• What could the character have said or done differently?
• Have you ever helped someone who was feeling sad?
• What kind words could you use to help someone feel better?
• What did you learn about kindness from this story?
PRAISE CHILDREN WHEN THEY SPEAK KINDLY TO OTHERS
DISCUSSION (Ask):
These questions can help children recognize and reflect on their kind actions.
• What kind words did you use when talking to your friend?
• How did you help your friend feel happy?
• What did you say when your friend shared a toy with you?
• How do you think your friend felt when you spoke kindly?
• Can you think of another kind thing you could say?
• How can we use kind words when we disagree with someone?
You can also reinforce positive behavior by saying, “I noticed you said ‘please’ when asking for the toy. That was a kind and polite way to ask!”
FUN ACTIVITY: CREATE A “KIND WORDS JAR” AND FILL IT WITH POSITIVE WORDS AND COMPLIMENTS.
ACTIVITY & DISCUSSION:
Fun Activity: Create a “Kind Words Jar” Invite children to write, draw or dictate kind words and compliments to put in the jar.
Questions to ask during the activity:
• What kind words can we put in our jar?
• Can you think of a word that makes someone feel happy?
• What could you say to cheer up a friend?
• What do you like about yourself?
• What is something kind you could say to a classmate?
• How would you feel if someone gave you one of these kind words?
• Can you choose a kind word to share with someone today?
• How can we use the words in our jar to make our classroom a happier place?
Examples of words and phrases for the jar include kind, helpful, friendly, caring, amazing, well done, you can do it, and I like playing with you.
Tips for educators
• Use open-ended questions (that cannot be answered with “yes” or “no”) that encourage children to explain their thoughts. Questions can start with “why”, “how”, or “what if”.
• Model polite and kind language in everyday interactions. Examples: Listening carefully, using eye contact, speaking gently, using polite words like “please” and “thank you.” Also, avoiding interrupting while someone is talking.
• Use puppets, pictures, and stories to help younger children understand feelings.
• Encourage children to give genuine compliments (rather than requiring them to praise someone).
• Recognize kind actions (you observe as a teacher) and mention these specifically and warmly.
• Help children understand that saying “I’m sorry” is important, but showing kindness and trying to make things right also matter.
Overall learning goal: Children will begin to recognize kind words, use polite expressions in everyday situations, give positive compliments, and understand how their words can affect other people’s feelings.
Sharing. As a teacher, tell them about when someone said kind words to you and how you felt. Also, encourage children to share.
2. “LOVE MAKES US HAPPY”
Goals for Children
ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO SHARE TOYS AND TAKE TURNS
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What does it mean to share?
• How do you feel when a friend shares a toy with you?
• How do you think your friend feels when you share with them?
• What can you say when you want to play with a toy someone else is using?
• How can we take turns when playing together?
• What can we do if two friends want the same toy?
TEACH THEM TO SHOW LOVE BY HELPING OTHERS
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What does it mean to show love to someone?
• How can you help your friends in the classroom?
• What can you do if you see someone feeling sad?
• How can you help your family at home?
• How do you feel when someone helps you?
• Can you think of one kind thing you can do for someone today?
Encourage them to tell family members and friends, “I love you.”
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Who are the people you love?
• How do you show your family that you love them?
• What special words can we say to show someone we love them?
• How do you feel when someone tells you, “I love you”?
• When can you tell your friends or family, “I love you”?
• Besides saying “I love you,” how else can we show love?
READ STORIES ABOUT LOVE, FRIENDSHIP, AND CARING.
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Who are the friends or family members in the story?
• How did the characters show love to each other?
• What kind thing did the character do?
• How do you think the character felt when someone helped them?
• What would you do if you were in the character’s place?
• What can we learn from this story about love and friendship?
FUN ACTIVITY: MAKE HOMEMADE LOVE CARDS FOR FAMILY MEMBERS OR FRIENDS
DISCUSSION (Ask):
While children create their cards, ask:
• Who would you like to make your card for?
• Why did you choose that person?
• What would you like to say to them?
• What pictures or colors could you use to show love?
• How do you think the person will feel when they receive your card?
• What other ways can we make someone feel special?
3. “A KIND DEED BRIGHTENS”
Goals for Children
ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO HELP CLEAN UP TOYS OR TIDY THE CLASSROOM
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Why is it important to put our toys away after playing?
• How can we help keep our classroom clean and tidy?
• What can you do if you see toys scattered on the floor?
• How do you feel when you help your teacher or friends?
• What might happen if everyone helps to clean up?
SHARING WITH OTHERS AND INCLUDING EVERYONE IN PLAY
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What does it mean to share with a friend?
• How do you feel when someone shares their toys with you?
• What can you say to a child who wants to join your game?
• How can we make sure nobody feels left out?
• What could you do if two friends want to play with the same toy?
HELPING SOMEONE WHO IS SAD OR NEEDS ASSISTANCE
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• How can you tell when someone is feeling sad?
• What could you do to help a friend who is crying?
• What kind words can you say to someone who feels sad?
• How can you help a friend who is struggling with something?
• How do you think your friend might feel when you help them?
ENCOURAGING CHILDREN TO DO KIND THINGS WITHOUT BEING ASKED
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What is one kind thing you can do without your teacher asking?
• How can you help someone who needs help?
• Have you ever done something kind for someone? What did you do?
• How do you think a small act of kindness can brighten someone’s day?
• What kind thing could you do at home or at school today?
FUN ACTIVITY: THE KINDNESS CHALLENGE
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What does kindness mean to you?
• Can you think of one kind deed you could do today?
• Who could you help today, and how?
• What kind deed could you do for your family or friends?
• How did you feel after doing something kind?
• What could you do tomorrow to make someone smile?
Questions to ask at the end of the activity
These questions help children reflect on what they have learned
• What have you learned about kindness today?
• Why is it important to be kind to others?
• How can one small kind deed make a big difference?
• What is one kind deed you would like to do tomorrow?
Suggested closing message for children
“Children, remember that even a small act of kindness can make someone happy. Helping to tidy up, sharing our toys, including our friends, and comforting someone who is sad are all ways to show kindness. Every day, let us try to do at least one kind deed and make the world a brighter place!”
Tip: For younger children (ages 3–5), use short questions and real-life examples. For older children (ages 6–10), encourage them to explain their answers and suggest their own ways to show kindness.
4. “FAMILY HELPS US FEEL SAFE”
Goals for Children
ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO SPEND QUALITY TIME WITH FAMILY MEMBERS
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Who do you enjoy spending time with in your family?
• What do you like doing with your family?
• How do you feel when you spend time with your family?
• What is something fun you can do together at home?
• Why is it important to spend time with people who care about us?
TEACH THEM TO TALK TO A TRUSTED ADULT WHEN THEY FEEL WORRIED OR UPSET
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Who can you talk to when you feel sad, scared, or worried?
• What can you do if something makes you feel uncomfortable?
• How do you feel when a grown-up listens to you?
• Can you name an adult who helps you feel safe?
• What could you say when you need help?
INVOLVE CHILDREN IN SIMPLE FAMILY ACTIVITIES, SUCH AS COOKING OR TIDYING UP TOGETHER
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What jobs do you help with at home?
• How can you help your family keep the house tidy?
• Have you ever helped prepare a meal with someone in your family?
• How do you feel when everyone works together?
• Why is it helpful when family members help one another?
ENCOURAGE FAMILY MEMBERS TO LISTEN TO CHILDREN AND SHOW AFFECTION.
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• How do you know when someone in your family cares about you?
• How do you feel when someone listens to what you have to say?
• What are some ways we can show love and kindness to our family?
• How can you let someone know that you need comfort?
• What can you do to show a family member that you care about them?
FUN ACTIVITY: CREATE A FAMILY PICTURE COLLAGE AND LET CHILDREN SHARE WHAT MAKES THEM FEEL LOVED AND SAFE
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Who are the people in your picture collage?
• What do you enjoy doing with the people in your pictures?
• What makes you feel loved and cared for?
• What do your family members do to help you feel safe?
• What is a happy memory you have with someone who cares about you?
• How can we show love and care for one another every day?
Tip for educators: Remind children that if they ever feel unsafe or worried, they can tell a trusted adult who will listen and help them.
5. “A SMILE GOES A MILE”
Goals for Children
Key message for children: “A smile is a little act of kindness that can brighten someone’s day. Let’s greet others warmly, include everyone, and make our classroom a happy place!”
Tip: Remind children that kindness can be shown in different ways. If someone does not feel comfortable smiling or greeting others, they can wave, say hello, or offer another friendly gesture instead (even a thumbs up).
ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO SMILE AND GREET OTHERS WARMLY
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• How do you feel when someone smiles at you?
• What are some friendly ways we can greet someone?
• What can you say when you see your friends in the morning?
• How do you feel when someone says hello to you?
• Who can you greet with a smile today?
TEACH CHILDREN TO WELCOME THOSE WHO ARE NEW-TO-THEIR-CLASS AND INCLUDE OTHERS IN GAMES
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• How would you feel if you were new to our class
• What could you say to a new child to help them feel welcome?
• What can you do if you see someone playing alone?
• How can we invite others to join our games?
• Why is it important to let everyone join in and play?
MODEL FRIENDLY FACIAL EXPRESSIONS AND POSITIVE GREETINGS
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What does a friendly face look like?
• Can you show me your kindest smile?
• What are some kind words we can use to greet others?
• How can our faces show others that we are happy to see them?
• Can you think of different ways to say hello politely?
REMIND CHILDREN THAT A SMILE CAN HELP SOMEONE FEEL WELCOME
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• How can a smile make someone feel?
• Have you ever felt happy when someone smiled at you?
• What could you do to cheer up someone who feels lonely?
• How can we show kindness to someone who looks sad?
• Why can a small act of kindness, like smiling, make a big difference?
FUN ACTIVITY: PLAY A “SMILE AND SAY HELLO” GAME WHERE CHILDREN GREET ONE ANOTHER WITH A FRIENDLLY SMILE
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• How did you feel when your friends greeted you?
• What friendly words did you use to say hello?
• How did you make your friend feel welcome?
• What did you notice about your friends’ smiles and greetings?
• How can we use what we learned in this game every day?
• What is one kind thing you can do to make someone smile today?
6. “PRAYER BRINGS US BLESSINGS”
Goals for Children
ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO SAY A SIMPLE PRAYER EVERY DAY
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What is prayer?
• Who can we talk to when we pray?
• When can we say a prayer during the day?
• What are some things you can talk to God about?
• Can you say a short prayer in your own words?
• How do you feel when you pray?
• What is one thing you would like to pray about today?
TEACH CHILDREN TO PRAY WITH GRATITUDE FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND THE BLESSINGS THEY HAVE
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What are some things you are thankful to God for?
• Who are the people in your life that you are grateful for?
• What do you love most about your family and friends?
• What are some things you have that make you happy?
• Why is it important to say thank you to God?
• How can we show gratitude to the people who care for us?
• Can you say a short prayer thanking God for your blessings?
HELP CHILDREN PRAY FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE SICK, SAD, OR IN NEED
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Do you know someone who is sick, sad, or having a difficult time?
• How do you think someone feels when they are sick or sad?
• What can we ask God to do for someone who is sick?
• How can we pray for someone who feels lonely or sad?
• What can we do to help someone who is having a hard time?
• Why is it important to remember others in our prayers?
• Who would you like to pray for today?
ESTABLISH A SHORT FAMILY OR CLASSROOM PRAYER ROUTINE, IF APPROPRIATE
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• When could we pray together as a family or class?
• Why might it be nice to pray together?
• What are some things we can include in our group prayer?
• How can we show respect when someone else is praying?
• Would you like to take turns saying a short prayer?
• What could we thank God for at the end of each day?
• How can we remind one another to pray every day?
FUN ACTIVITY: CREATE A “THANKFUL HEARTS JAR” WHERE CHILDREN SHARE THINGS THEY ARE GATEFUL FOR DURING PRAYER TIME
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What does it mean to be thankful?
• What would you like to put on your thankful heart?
• What made you happy today?
• Who did something kind for you recently?
• What is one little thing that makes you smile?
• How do you feel when you think about the things you are thankful for?
• Can you thank God for one thing from your heart today?
• How can we remember to be thankful even when we have a difficult day?
Closing discussion
To help children remember the lesson, ask:
• What have we learned about prayer today?
• How can prayer bring blessings into our lives?
• What is one thing you will pray about tonight?
• What is one blessing you are thankful for today?
Suggested closing message for children: “Prayer is a special way to talk to God. We can thank Him for our blessings, ask for help, and pray for others. Let us remember to pray every day with thankful and loving hearts.”
7. “XOXO HUGS & KISSES”
Goals for Children
Teacher tip: Encourage children to understand that love can be shown through kind words, thoughtful actions, smiles, waves, and gentle affection.
THESE QUESTIONS are to encourage children to show boundaries when it comes to hugs and kisses. As parents you can ask open-ended, gentle questions that help them understand body autonomy, consent, and personal space.
ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO SHOW LOVE THROUGH KIND WORDS AND GENTLE AFFECTION (TALK ABOUT BOUNDARIES)
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Is it okay to say no to a hug or kiss? Why? What do you say?
• How can you tell someone you would rather have a wave than a hug?
• Why is it important to ask before giving someone a hug?/kiss?
• If someone asks for a kiss and you don’t want to give one?
• If someone is sad, how could you comfort them without hugging them?
• What are ways to say no to a hug? Example. “Can I have a high-five instead?”
TEACH CHILDREN HOW TO GIVE HUGS AND KISSES WITHOUT GIVING HUGS AND KISSES
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• What does it mean to show someone that you love them?
• What are some kind words we can say to make someone feel special?
• How do you feel when someone says something nice to you?
• How can you show someone you care about them?
• What are some ways to make a friend or family member feel happy and loved?
REMIND CHILDREN THAT IT IS OKAY TO SAY “NO” TO HUGS AND CHOOSE A WAVE, HIGH-FIVE, OR SMILE INSTEAD
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Is it okay to say no to a hug if you don’t want one? Why?
• What can you say if someone wants to hug you and you don’t feel comfortable?
• What are some other ways to greet someone without hugging or kissing?
• How would you feel if someone respected your choice not to hug?
• Why should we respect other people’s choices about their bodies?
ENCOURAGE CHILDREN TO EXPRESS AFFECTION TOWARD FAMILY MEMBER IN WAYS THAT FEEL COMFORTABLE
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Who are some people in your family that you love?
• How do you like to show your family that you care about them?
• What are some ways you can make someone in your family feel loved?
• Can you show love with or without giving a hug or kiss? How?
• How can you respect a family member’s choice if they don’t want a hug or kiss?
FUN ACTIVITY: MAKE HOMEMADE “HUGS AND KISSES” CARDS FOR LOVED ONES OR CREATE PAPER HEARTS WITH LOVING MESSAGES
DISCUSSION (Ask):
• Who would you like to make a special card for?
• What loving or kind message would you like to write on your card?
• How do you think the person will feel when they receive your card?
• What is something special you appreciate about the person you chose?
• What are other ways you can show love and kindness to the people around you?
SUMMARY: Simple ways to keep children motivated
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🌟 Praise their efforts: “You did a wonderful job showing kindness!”
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⭐ Use reward charts: Give a sticker for each positive action.
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❤️ Lead by example: Let children see adults practicing kindness, love, and respect.
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🎉 Celebrate progress: Recognize children’s good deeds during circle time or family time.
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😊 Keep it enjoyable: Use songs, stories, role-play, crafts, and games to reinforce each goal.
Remember: Children learn best when they see these values practiced consistently by the adults around them. Small acts of kindness every day can make a big difference!
Here are some simple, practical ways to motivate children to achieve their goals:
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Set small goals: Break big goals into smaller, achievable steps so children don’t feel overwhelmed.
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Use praise and encouragement: Recognize their effort, progress, and perseverance, not just the final result.
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Offer rewards: Use stickers, certificates, extra playtime, or a fun activity to celebrate progress.
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Make it fun: Turn goals into games, challenges, or friendly competitions.
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Give children choices: Let them choose how they want to work toward their goals to build independence.
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Track progress: Use a simple chart or checklist so children can see how far they’ve come.
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Be a role model: Show children how you set goals, work through challenges, and celebrate achievements.
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Encourage a growth mindset: Remind them that mistakes help them learn and improve.
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Celebrate small successes: Recognize every step forward, no matter how small.
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Provide support: Offer guidance and reassurance when children feel frustrated or discouraged.
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Keep goals realistic: Make sure goals are suitable for each child’s age, abilities, and interests.
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Make it meaningful: Help children understand why their goals are important and how achieving them benefits them.
A simple tip: Focus on effort rather than perfection. Tell children, “I’m proud of how hard you tried!” to help build confidence and motivation.
If you share the specific goals you want the children to achieve, suggest simple, practical strategies for each one.
