Suitable for all age groups, it is particularly effective with primary and secondary school pupils.

• To promote mutual respect and positive interpersonal relationships.

• To enhance students' self-confidence and positive self-image.

• To develop the ability to express positive feelings and observations.

• Here and now: The activity allows learners to focus on the current positive qualities and actions of others.

• Awareness: Encourages a deeper awareness of one's own qualities and those of classmates.

• Contact: Through the exchange of compliments, interpersonal contacts and a sense of belonging to a community are strengthened.

• Self-regulation and function: Students learn how positive words affect their own emotional state as well as that of others.

• No special materials required.

Approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of the group.

1. Organisation: The teacher organises the students in a circle, either sitting on the floor or standing, depending on the space available and the number of students.

2. Execution:

3. The teacher explains the purpose of the activity and stresses the importance of honesty and positive expression.

4. Starting with one pupil who compliments the next person in the circle on the right. The compliments continue in a clockwise direction.

5. Each pupil has the opportunity to give and receive a compliment.

6. Conclusion: When the circle is complete, the teacher invites the pupils to reflect on the feelings they have experienced during the activity and how they can bring similar positivity into their everyday interactions.

For younger students, the teacher can prepare compliment topics in advance or limit them to specific areas such as talents, effort or acts of kindness. For older students, the activity can be extended with an additional reflection task where students write about an experience or how they could integrate the compliments into their daily lives.

After everyone has given and received compliments, invite participants to take a moment of silence to notice how the experience felt physically and emotionally.

The expected outcomes of the "Compliment Circle" activity include strengthened peer relationships, increased self-esteem, and a more supportive classroom environment. By actively giving and receiving compliments, students practice kindness, empathy, and respectful communication. This simple yet powerful exchange fosters a sense of belonging and emotional safety, helping students feel seen and valued by their peers. Over time, the activity can contribute to reduced instances of conflict and a more collaborative, compassionate classroom culture.

The teacher should maintain a supportive and safe environment where each student feels comfortable both giving and receiving compliments. It is important that the teacher focuses on making sure that compliments are sincere and specific, avoiding general or impersonal praise.