Transition

Social Thinking Challenge - Communicating with "I" Statements

"I" Statements help me....

Share feelings in expected ways
Show responsibility for communication
Self-advocate
Take ownership of feelings, actions, and problem-solving

You Statements

All or nothing
Nothing gets solved
Rigid thinking - needing to get your own way

I Statements

Willing to compromise and say sorry
Talking about problems for the best chance at solving
Flexible thinking - talking about compromising

I feel _____ When_.

Real Life Example

You have a headache, but your roommates or family members have the TV on too loudly
- Ask them to turn it down
- "I feel sick when the TV is loud"
- "Can you please turn the volume down? I feel bothered when the noise is loud."

Media Example

How is the mystery gang treating eachother?
How do their words make eachother feel?
How can they use an I Statement?
I feel _______ when ______.

Now, you try it! Practice "I" statements by...

Watching clips from movies and TV shows to see how characters can better solve problems
Talking to teachers about new changes
Telling a person if they are not doing their fair share of cleaning up
Letting someone know that they are blocking your view of the TV
Speaking up at doctor's appointments
Saying something if someone is teasing you
Solving conflicts with parents and siblings
Solving conflicts with friends

Emily Greenberg, MA, CCC-SLP

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