Kind Words Online
Online words can cheer someone up or hurt their feelings. Start with the same kindness you would use in the playground.
- Give an example of a kind online message
- Explain why typed words still hurt or help
- Describe what to do if you regret something you sent
Finish first
Topic contents
Lesson 1 of 3
Words travel without your voice
When you type, the reader cannot hear your smile. A short message like 'Whatever' can sound rude even if you meant to be funny. Kind words online are clear and warm.
Think of the person on the other side. Would you say this face to face at lunch? If not, rewrite it or wait until you feel calmer.
Watch the step-flow. See how one kind sentence changes how a chat feels.
Lesson 2 of 3
Include, do not exclude
Group chats can leave people out on purpose: 'No Alex today' or 'This is our secret.' Exclusion online hurts just like turning your back in the corridor.
If you see meanness, you can be an upstander. Say something kind, change the subject, or tell a grown-up. Laughing along still hurts the person targeted.
Emojis and stickers are words too. A laughing face on someone's bad day can feel like mocking. Choose reactions that match kindness.
Lesson 3 of 3
Fix mistakes with courage
Everyone sends something they regret sometimes. A brave fix sounds like: 'Sorry, that came out wrong. I did not mean to hurt you.' That is stronger than deleting and pretending nothing happened.
If someone is unkind to you, save the message if you can and tell a trusted adult. You do not have to solve bullying alone.
Next you will sort information into private details you keep close and public details you can share carefully.
Practice
Work these out yourself
No answer key here on purpose: these are the questions worth thinking through before you move on. Open one and work it out.
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