When Someone Is Unkind is a free, printable social-emotional learning (SEL) worksheet designed to help children think about how to respond safely and positively when others treat them unkindly. This thoughtful resource encourages reflection, empathy, and confidence-building through simple, creative activities that invite children to write or draw three positive ways they could respond in such situations.
The worksheet helps children explore what it means to stay calm, use their voice, and choose kind or assertive reactions rather than responding with anger or hurt. It encourages problem-solving and emotional awareness—key skills that build resilience, empathy, and self-regulation.
This printable kindness and friendship activity can be used in classrooms, counselling sessions, therapy, or at home to open gentle discussions about respect, feelings, and behaviour. Teachers and practitioners can use it during PSHE, wellbeing, or emotional literacy lessons to help children reflect on:
How to handle unkind words or behaviour
When and how to ask for help from trusted adults
What it means to stand up for themselves safely
How kindness and calmness can make a difference
By writing or drawing their ideas, children learn that while they cannot always control others’ actions, they can choose their own responses. This helps them feel more in control, confident, and supported in difficult social situations.
Professionals such as social workers, counsellors, school psychologists, ELSA practitioners, and teachers can integrate this resource into small group sessions, wellbeing programs, or one-to-one work with children who struggle with peer relationships, bullying, or emotional outbursts.
Simple, inclusive, and child-friendly, this printable kindness resource helps children develop practical strategies for dealing with unkindness while reinforcing the values of respect, empathy, and self-worth. It encourages them to stay true to their kind selves and to seek support when needed—empowering them to respond to challenges with confidence and compassion.
