Athletics & Wellness
Grade 7
45 min
From Follower to Leader: Helping Others Make Safe Choices
Ever been in a situation where you knew something was a bad idea, but your friend was about to do it anyway? This lesson teaches you how to step up and be a positive leader, helping your friends make safe choices you can all feel good about.
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What & Why
Being a leader isn't about being the loudest or most popular. It's about having the courage to do the right thing and helping your friends do the same. When you help someone make a safe choice, you're showing them you care about their well-being. This builds trust and makes your friendships stronger.This skill is called positive influence. It's about guiding others toward healthy decisions without being bossy or judgmental.
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Example 1 — The Vape Pen
The Situation: You and your friend Sam are at the park. An older kid offers Sam a vape pen, saying "Everyone does it." Sam looks unsure but doesn't want to seem uncool.How to Lead:Step In Calmly: You could say to the older kid, "No thanks, we're good." Then, turn to Sam and say, "Hey, let's go check out the basketball courts."State a Simple Fact (privately): Later, you can tell Sam, "I'm glad we left. I read that those things have a lot of weird chemicals in them that are really bad for your lungs."Reinforce the Friendship: End with something like, "Anyway, I was hoping you'd help me practice my free throws." This changes the subject to something positive and shows your friendship isn't based on risky behavior.
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Example 2 — The Unsupervised Party
The Situation: Your group chat is buzzing about a party at Maya's house this weekend. You find out her parents are out of town, and someone mentions there will be alcohol.How to Lead:Suggest an Alternative in the Chat: Instead of calling out the party directly, propose something better. "Hey guys, instead of the party, what if we all went to the late movie on Saturday and grabbed pizza after? The new superhero movie is out!"Talk One-on-One: If your best friend is still set on going, talk to them privately. "I'm a little worried about that party since no adults will be there. Things can get out of control fast."Set Your Boundary: Be clear about your own choice. "I'm not going to go, but I'd love to hang out with you at the movies instead." This gives them a safe way out without feeling judg...
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Beginner
What is 'positive influence'?
A.Telling your friends what to do all the time.
B.Helping guide your friends toward safe and healthy choices.
C.Only hanging out with people who make perfect decisions.
D.Ignoring your friends when they are about to do something risky.
Beginner
Your friend is about to ride their bike to the store without a helmet. What's the best way to be a leader?
A.Grab their helmet and say, "Here, I'd be worried if you got hurt. Let's both wear ours."
B.Yell at them that they are being irresponsible.
C.Say nothing because it's their choice.
D.Tell them you won't be their friend anymore if they don't wear it.
Beginner
Why is suggesting an alternative plan a good strategy?
A.It proves you are more creative than your friends.
B.It gives everyone a safe and fun way out of a risky situation.
C.It makes the other person feel bad about their original idea.
D.It's a way to avoid talking about the problem.
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