Lesson Plan

Hidden Hero Plan

Students will identify and celebrate a hidden strength in a classmate by giving and receiving genuine compliments, fostering respect and empathy in a 20-minute session.

Building recognition and positive self-image promotes empathy, respect, and a supportive classroom culture, boosting social-emotional skills early on.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Setup Materials

5 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Instructions

2 minutes

Step 2

Spotlight Pairing

8 minutes

Step 3

Secret Compliment Cards

6 minutes

Step 4

Kindness Circle Share

4 minutes

Slide Deck

Spotting Hidden Strengths

Welcome students and introduce the idea that everyone has a special hidden strength, like a superhero power!

What is a Hidden Strength?

Explain what a hidden strength means in simple terms.

Examples of Hidden Strengths

Share concrete, relatable examples. Invite kids to name other strengths.

How to Give a Compliment

Walk through the steps, modeling each point as you speak.

Model Interaction

Role-play with a volunteer to demonstrate.

Your Turn!

Set students up for paired practice next.