Classroom Activity: Exploring the Four Building Blocks

Materials:

• Four large sheets of paper or chart paper

• Markers, stickers, or sticky notes

• Optional: short, kid-friendly video introducing HOPE

Steps:

1. Introduce the Four Building Blocks

   • Explain in simple terms:

     • Relationships = people who care about you

     • Environments = safe, fun places to learn and play

     • Engagement = doing things that are fun or interesting

     • Emotional Growth = learning about feelings and how to handle them

2. Set Up the Room

   • Hang a sheet of paper for each Building Block around the classroom.

   • Use pictures, drawings, or emojis to help children understand each one.

3. Rotate and Share

   • Invite children to move around the room.

   • Ask them to draw, stick a sticker, or write (with help) something that makes them feel happy, safe, or cared for in each Building Block.

4. Come Together and Talk About It

   • Ask simple questions:

     • “Which one was easiest to think of?”

     • “Which one didn’t have as many ideas?”

     • “Who can help you with this one?”

5. Optional Extension:

   • Children can share ideas about how their classroom or playground could have more of these Building Blocks, giving them a voice in shaping their environment.