January is all about those New Year’s
resolutions, but this year let’s be SMART about
it! SMART goalsincorporate all the necessary
criteria to help usfocus our efforts and
increase the chances of achieving our goal.
Growing Global Citizens
This month, students are learning how to see the world through others’ eyes. They’ll explore what it means to understand, care about, and show respect for people who may think, look, or feel differently than they do.
Through stories, role-plays, and real-life scenarios, students will practice empathy—noticing how others feel and showing kindness through their words and actions. These lessons build a sense of belonging and help students grow into caring, responsible global citizens who act with integrity in their relationships and communities.
Key SEL Themes
CASEL Competency: Social Awareness
Second Step Theme: Empathy & Kindness
Portrait of a Learner: Global Citizen & Emotional Integrity
Grown-Up Tips for Home
Practice perspective-taking.
When reading a story or watching a show together, ask: “How do you think that character feels?”
“What would you do if you were in their place?”
Model kindness in action.
Let your child see you thank others, lend a hand, or speak kindly about people—even when they’re not around. Small moments of empathy add up to big lessons about emotional integrity.
Connect to the world.
Plan ways your family can help others in your community or around the world—through sharing, volunteering, or simply treating everyone with respect.
How to use: Sit down with your child(ren) and create SMART goals of your own following the steps of the infographic. Think about goals related to school, after-school activities, hobbies, or even a new skill!