Lesson Plan: I Love Myself and Others

 Lesson Plan: I Love Myself and Others 

Taylar Grinner

Grades 6-8

"When we love ourselves, we learn how to give love that heals, not hurts. Love is not just about romance—it’s about care, respect, and kindness. We all need to feel loved to grow strong, and that love can start with how we treat ourselves."

—  Salvation by bell hooks


Since middle schoolers are starting to develop a stronger sense of identity, emotional awareness, and social ties, it is major that they learn how to love themselves and others. They may better embrace their imperfections, recognize their virtues, and develop resilience against peer pressure and societal comparison when they are taught to love themselves. Negative self-talk, anxiety, and depression can all be lessened by knowing and practicing self-love. It lays the groundwork for managing emotional difficulties and making mistakes with empathy instead of guilt.

Children are better able to build courteous and sympathetic interactions when they love and respect themselves. They learn how to treat people with compassion, kindness, and understanding as well as how to create appropriate limits. Teaching empathy, communication, and active listening are all part of teaching people how to love. Both within and outside of the classroom, these abilities are critical for teamwork and dispute resolution.

Peer pressure and the media frequently convey conflicting messages about popularity, attractiveness, and value. Teaching middle schoolers to esteem others and love themselves enables them to critically assess those messages and make better decisions.

hooks emphasize the importance of a love ethic in communities in Salvation, which means that everyone has a duty to foster a compassionate atmosphere. In middle school, when peer pressure is high and social ties are strengthening, this is crucial. Students that have a love ethic learn to take care of one another, settle disputes amicably, and respect one another's differences.


hooks also redefine love as a deliberate act that combines respect, caring, dedication, and accountability. This teaches pupils that love is a talent that can be developed rather than merely an emotion. It immediately relates to teaching the abilities you're already stressing, including empathy, active listening, and setting boundaries.


Lesson Objective: Students will explore the concept of self-love, understand its importance, and learn how loving oneself helps build healthy relationships and community.

Daily Affirmations: 

I love my Brain 

I love my Body 

I love my feelings and character 


Assignments:

  1. Self-love Letter - Students will write a short paragraph answering the following: 


  • One thing they’re proud of… 

  • One way to show themselves love… 


  1. Positive Self Talk – “I am _____.” Students will recite their positive affirmation out loud. 


  1. Discussion Question: How can loving ourselves help us treat others better? Students will break off into groups to share their thoughts amongst each other. 


  1. Short Survey: How is love shown at school? When do you feel the most loved in your classroom? Students will give short responses on sheet of paper. 

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