HELPFUL VS UNHELPFUL THOUGHTS automatic negative thoughts/framing your thoughts

Do your students struggle with recognizing and managing negative thoughts? Teaching children to differentiate between helpful and unhelpful thoughts can make a huge impact on their emotional well-being, self-confidence, and ability to cope with challenges.

Our Helpful vs. Unhelpful Thoughts Sorting Activity is designed to make this process simple, engaging, and interactive for students.

This resource empowers students to:

• Identify thoughts that lift them up versus those that hold them back.
• Practice shifting negative thinking into positive, helpful self-talk.
• Develop emotional awareness and build confidence in managing their thoughts.

What’s Included?

• Tip Sheet: Thinking Positive Thoughts – A quick and easy guide to help students understand the difference between helpful and unhelpful thoughts. Practical examples to teach positive self-talk. Simple strategies for flipping negative thoughts into helpful ones.
• Helpful vs. Unhelpful Thoughts Sorting Cards – A set of cards with realistic, kid-friendly examples of both helpful and unhelpful thoughts. Includes statements such as “I can try my best” (helpful) and “Nobody likes me” (unhelpful). Perfect for small group activities, individual sessions, or classroom use.
• Sorting Mat Pages – Two printable sorting pages labeled “Helpful Thoughts” and “Unhelpful Thoughts.” Students place the cards into the correct pile, reinforcing their understanding of the concept. Great for hands-on, visual learners.

► Looking for more workbook topics? We’ve got you covered!

• Behavior and Feelings Workbook
• Self Esteem and Feelings Workbook
• Emotions & Self Care Workbook
• My Anger Management Workbook

⚠️ Click HERE to follow All Therapy Resources and be alerted of new products and free downloads! ⚠️

© All Therapy Resources – Please read my Terms of Use regarding personal and commercial use of All Therapy Resources. You can download the free document here.