A child can put a behavior picture under the red heading and still need help answering, “What could the person do instead?” That next step deserves its own little lesson.
After a familiar sort, choose one picture and practice a specific replacement action. Keep the example fictional and the conversation calm.
Begin with a few familiar cards
The Red and Green Choices Behavior Cards include 42 illustrated cards, several heading options, and blank headings. Select a few clear examples that fit your classroom expectations.
Invite children to sort the actions and briefly explain their choices. Use words alongside colors so the activity does not depend on distinguishing red from green. The headings describe actions, not the worth of the person in the picture.
Ask what the person could do next
Choose one card from the group of actions that need changing. Ask, “What could this person do that would be safe and helpful?” Describe the pictured situation plainly and accept answers through speech, pointing, or a child’s usual communication method.
Help turn a broad answer into an action. “Be nice” needs a little more detail before a young child can try it.
For a separate teacher-made pretend example, imagine two children wanting the same marker. Possible actions include asking for a turn, choosing another marker while waiting, or asking an adult for help. This example is an extension you can discuss; check your actual cards before choosing one to pair with it.
Offer a small choice when needed
If an open question is too much, offer two appropriate options. “Could the person ask for a turn or choose another marker?” Let the child select one and show what it could look like.
A request for help counts as a useful action. Some situations need adult support rather than another reminder to work it out independently.
Rehearse the helpful action
Use a puppet, a simple drawing, or an adult demonstration. Practice the replacement only; children do not need to act out an unsafe behavior first.
Model a short phrase such as “Can I have a turn?” Then demonstrate a possible response. Give children a way to participate without performing in front of the whole group.
Return to the sort
Place a teacher-written reminder beside the original card: “Ask for a turn,” for example. Ask how the suggested action changes the situation.
For support with the earlier reasoning step, see helping children explain the red-and-green sort. Today’s extension adds one doable action to that understanding. Revisit it during calm practice time and adjust the support for each learner.
A resource for this activity
Red and Green Choices Behavior Cards
Use a few of the 42 picture cards for sorting, then add a teacher-made reminder showing a specific helpful alternative. Includes multiple heading options and blank headings.