Lesson Plan

Happy Thoughts Detective Lesson Plan

Help 2nd graders spot negative ‘grumpy thoughts’ in group activities, share with partners, and flip them into positive ‘happy thoughts’ through discussion and individual writing.

Engaging the whole class in recognizing and transforming negative self-talk builds emotional resilience, supports self-esteem, and fosters a growth mindset through collaborative discussion and reflection.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up and Introduction

5 minutes

Step 2

Identify Grumpy Thoughts

5 minutes

Step 3

Story Time: Spotting Thoughts

5 minutes

Step 4

Teach the Flip Strategy

5 minutes

Step 5

Partner and Individual Practice

7 minutes

Step 6

Wrap-Up and Reflection

3 minutes

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Slide Deck

Happy Thoughts Flip

What Are Grumpy Thoughts?

Spotting Grumpy Thoughts

Flip It!

Your Turn to Draw

Share Your Flip

Great Job!

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Activity

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Activity

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Worksheet

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Cool Down

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Script

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Happy Thoughts Detective

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Molly Mulhern

Tier 1
For Schools
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