'Thoughts on Trial': For and Against Arguments for Negative Thoughts
This thought-challenging activity is a popular one in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. ‘Thoughts on Trial’ forms part of the Intervention, Cognitive Restructuring. This activity has been simplified to be used by Practitioners, Teachers, Parents and ELSAs.
It encourages the child to think about their thought in new ways. Sometimes we can have thoughts that we really believe are true but when we think about the against FOR/AGAINST the thought, our minds can change.
How could this resource be used?
- To support with deciding if a thought is accurate or not.
- To help with changing children’s thoughts from negative ones into positive ones with evidence.
- To be used as a calm-down and coping strategy.
- To support with self-regulation.
Relevant Curriculum Links:
England PSHE – Which statutory PSHE curriculum* objectives does this resource fall into? *in line with the PSHE Association 2021 Statutory Guidance.
- KS1:H18 – different things they can do to manage big feelings, to help calm themselves down and/or change their mood when they don’t feel good.
- KS2: H16 – about strategies and behaviours that support mental health.
- KS2: H20 – strategies to respond to feelings, including intense or conflicting feelings; how to manage and respond to feelings appropriately and proportionately in different situations.
- KS2: H29. about how to manage setbacks/perceived failures, including how to re-frame unhelpful thinking.
Scottish Health and Wellbeing Curriculum Outcome(s):
- Mental and Emotional Wellbeing:
- I understand the importance of mental wellbeing and that this can be fostered and strengthened through personal coping skills and positive relationships. I know that it is not always possible to enjoy good mental health and that if this happens there is support available. HWB 0-06a / HWB 1-06a / HWB 2-06a / HWB 3-06a / HWB 4-06a.
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