5th - 8th Grade

The resources in this section of the toolkit are intended for middle school students. As students reach their early teen years, they become more aware of themselves and begin to process societal norms and expectations. In some instances, youth may feel pressure to live up to these expectations. Additionally, students are exposed to an extensive platform of information through the internet and may experience cyberbullying. It is important students are equipped with skills to help them navigate such challenges. In this section of Safe2Help Illinois, students will discuss the following topics:

• Suicidal Thoughts and Prevention
• Self-Injury
• Stress and Anxiety
• Social Isolation
• Internet Safety

Each of the topics include best practices for teaching and suggested resources. Check out the Safe2Help Illinois Teens Helping Teens - Learn, Understand, and Help webpage for videos that can help facilitate conversations.

Learning Outcomes and Competencies

All lessons derived from the use of this toolkit should connect to the Illinois Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Standards for upper elementary and junior high schools as outlined in the documents below:

• Illinois Priority Learning Standards for the 2020-21 School Year - Social/EmotionalLearning
•  Grades 1-5 Social Emotional Learning Performance Descriptors
•  Grades 6-12 Social Emotional Learning Performance Descriptors