Don’t do to…Do with.
The Elementals – Actions for the Practice of Life are engaging cards describing 16 qualities of being human, common to everyone. The cards promote social and emotional development through reflection and discussion for students and adults.
Everyone has adapted to not using some of the Elementals, which teachers can use to spark an intriguing discussion:
- Which ones have you gotten used to not using?
- What would be the value to you if you practiced those?
- How would you practice them?
In just a few minutes you can:
- Give students a chance to identify personally relevant areas of themselves they are ‘missing’ and would like to reclaim
- Prompt meaningful discussion that opens doors to relationship-building, self-expression, and student agency
- Watch students generate meaningful action goals that have them engaging in the world.
An easy-to-use Companion Guide is available to provide further ideas, discussion questions, and worksheets. The use of the Elementals ignites actions that build self-agency and deepens essential social and emotional skills.
Curious about how we got to this idea? Check out this short Prezi.
More information by viewing this short Prezi. Selected Cards Imaged Above.
“The Elementals are like a voice in my head telling me to go beyond what’s familiar or comfortable. There is a wonderfully optimistic flavor to each card.”
“I used these with my class and referred to them as ‘Super Powers’ – students loved thinking about them that way!”
“Practicing the Elementals has been extraordinary. Waking up to them, appreciating them…was fantastic. They are a treasure and a lifetime journey that one can practice but not know.”
“They greatly helped improve my engagement with people in my life.”
“The Elementals activity calls for pausing our busy lives and taking time to observe, reflect, listen and act.”
“It made personal growth something more simple and not so daunting and complex. I loved the focus on one thing.”
The Elementals Cards
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Educator Companion Guide
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BOTH: Cards and Educator Companion Guide
Please contact us for bulk orders! Discounted pricing for >5 cards and/or books.
* Free Shipping in the U.S. $25.85 additional for all international orders added at checkout.
The Elementals Are:
Easily incorporated into any school day design
- Individualized by students themselves
- Utilize teachers natural strengths
Based on best-practiced methodologies
Educator Companion Guide
Provides helpful guidance & six ways to use them in the classroom, with individual students, and in your lesson planning. Student Worksheets and Action-Planning templates are included. Not satisfied? We are happy to return your payment.
