Kids Helping Kids

have the following characteristics of a good friend written on them:
• Good listener
• Fun to go places with
• Loyal
• Trustworthy
• Kind
• Encourages me try new things
• Encouraging
• Makes me feel good about myself
• Dependable
• Complimentary
• Similar interests
Each puzzle should have at least three blank pieces. Tell the class that you will
explain the role of the blank pieces later.
Give the students time to complete the puzzles. Have each group read the word or
phrase on each puzzle piece and list all of them on the board.
Ask the class what the words describe: characteristics of a good friend. Give each
group a few minutes to fill in the blank pieces with other qualities that describe a
good friend.
Point out that no one person will have all of these qualities. Have the students
suggest situations where they might become friends with someone based on only a
few of these qualities; for example, someone who is:
• Loyal, a good listener and trustworthy would be a friend with whom to share
emotions, concerns and private thoughts
• Fun to go places with may share a single interest with you, such as a particular
sport or after-school club
• Outside your immediate group of friends, but who encourages you to explore
and try new things. This might be an older friend, sibling, cousin or neighbor.
©2006 The Ophelia Project ®
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