Welcome to the Pre-Teen Years!

Pre-teens are on an exciting journey of discovering who they are. Between school, friends, and changes in how they think and feel, this stage is all about growing emotionally, building confidence, and learning how to make good decision.

What is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional intelligence means understanding how you feel, why you feel that way, and how to handle those feelings in a healthy way. It also helps you understand and care about how others feel.

Example: Imagine your best friend didn’t invite you to their birthday party. Instead of getting super mad or sad right away, emotional intelligence helps you pause and think:

• “Maybe they forgot.”
• “I’ll ask them about it instead of jumping to conclusions.”

What You Can Do:

• Write down how you’re feeling in a journal.
• Talk to someone you trust about what’s going on.
• Use calm words to share your feelings.

Building Self-Esteem

Self-esteem means believing in yourself and knowing you’re awesome just as you are!

Example: If someone says something mean to you, instead of feeling bad, remember something great about yourself: “I’m kind, I’m smart, and I try my best!”

What You Can Do:

• Write 3 things you like about yourself every day.
• Try something new, like drawing or learning a sport, to show yourself what you can achieve.

How to Make Good Decisions

Pre-teens face tough choices, like saying “no” to peer pressure or deciding the right way to solve a problem.

Example: If friends dare you to do something you know isn’t right, ask yourself:

• “Is this safe?”
• “Will I feel good about this later?”

What You Can Do:

• Practice saying “no” firmly but politely: “No thanks, that’s not for me!”
• Think before acting—count to five and ask yourself if this is a good idea.

Activity: My Personal Shield

• Top Left: My strengths (e.g., kindness, creativity).
• Top Right: Things I love to do (e.g., sports, drawing).
• Bottom Left: My goals (e.g., “I want to be more confident”).
• Bottom Right: My favorite thing about myself.