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Seventh & Eighth Grade
LESSON
Four
Connection Through Kindness
60 min
This lesson is currently under review with Nest Educational Advisors. Please check back later for updates.
This lesson focuses on the concepts of neuroplasticity, kindness, and social connection. Students participate in activities that challenge their brain’s adaptability and explore how social emotions, such as empathy and trust, help build connections with others. Through discussion and art, students reflect on acts of kindness and how these experiences positively impact both their brain function and relationships. By the end of the lesson, students will understand how practicing kindness strengthens both social bonds and cognitive flexibility, reinforcing the importance of empathy and collaboration in their community.
Materials
Handouts
quicklinks
how to prepare for this lesson
At the start of class, teachers should have the following prepared:
- A plan to split class into pairs (optional)
- Student journals ready to be distributed
- A variety of art supplies collected. If possible, including mediums like magazines for collaging or paint will provide students with more options for expressing themselves.
Additional Resources
Sources
- Verywell Mind. (n.d.). What is Brain Plasticity?
- Jones, D.E., Greenberg, M., & Crowley, M. (2015). Early social-emotional functioning and public health.
- PLOS ONE. (2015). The impact of peer attachment on prosocial behavior and empathy.
- Van de Vyver, J., Abrams, D., et al. (2019). Participatory arts interventions promote prosocial intentions. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology.