Stick-With-It Stan helps children learn to keep trying, work through challenges, and believe in themselves even when something feels difficult. Through storytelling, movement, positive self-talk, and practice, children develop tools they can use at school, at home, and with others.
Positive Self-Talk
“I stick with it.”
How to Use This Lesson
1. Meet Stick With It Stan
Introduce Stick With It Stan, a real Powerful You kid who is learning to keep trying when things get difficult. Ask children, “Have you ever wanted to give up because something was hard?” Talk about how learning takes practice and that making mistakes is part of getting better.
2. Breathe & Stretch
Choose a simple stretch from the Breathe and Stretch on the Beach book or follow Stan's FREE movement video. Practice taking a deep breath, stretching tall, and getting ready to try again!
3. Read the Powerful You Story
Read Stick With It Stan's story from the Powerful You Primary book or laminated cards. Talk about Stan's feelings and experiences. Ask, “What can you do when something doesn't work the first time?”
4. Practice Positive Self-Talk
Say Stan's phrase together: “I stick with it.” Practice saying it aloud, then quietly in your mind. Encourage children to remember these words when they are learning something new or facing a challenge.
5. Write or Draw
Choose a writing or drawing activity from the Powerful You Primary book. Invite children to draw something they are learning to do, such as riding a bike, writing their name, or tying their shoes.
6. Role-Play
Let children hold Stan's laminated card and pretend to be Stick With It Stan! Act out situations such as struggling with a puzzle, missing a basketball shot, or making a mistake while reading. Practice taking a breath, trying a different way, or asking for help. Encourage children to cheer one another on with Stan's words: “Keep at it!” and “You've got this!”
7. Display the Skill Sign
Display Stick With It Stan's Encouraging Words sign where children can see it. Practice his six encouraging phrases: “Keep at it!” “Give it your all!” “Hang in there!” “Never give up!” “Finish strong!” and “You've got this!” Invite children to choose a phrase to encourage themselves or a friend when something feels difficult.
8. Collect & Celebrate with Digital Brag Tags
Notice children showing perseverance, trying again after mistakes, and encouraging others. Celebrate their effort with Digital Brag Tags and say, “You used your Powerful You thinking!”