This free printable PDF poster helps children and young people understand the impact of gossip, unkind words, and negative talk on friendships, emotions, and relationships. It clearly explains that gossip is talking about someone when they are not there and shows how it can hurt feelings, damage trust, and make others feel left out or unsafe . The resource introduces a simple and effective self-check strategy – asking “Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?” before speaking – which supports emotional awareness, social skills, and positive behaviour.
The tool also guides children towards safer and more respectful choices, such as saying something kind, supporting friends, speaking up for others, and keeping communication respectful . This makes it a practical tool for teaching kindness, empathy, and healthy peer relationships, while supporting anti-bullying work and emotional wellbeing.
Suitable for use in schools, classrooms, pastoral care, youth work, and at home, this resource can be used by teachers, parents, carers, social workers, school counsellors, and mentors to support children and teenagers in developing respectful communication, stronger friendships, and a better understanding of how their words affect others
