Jealousy & Comparison SEL Story + Activities | The Effort Glasses | Gratitude

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The Effort Glasses SEL Story + Printables | Jealousy & Comparison with Others, Gratitude, Personal Strengths

Description:
This resource includes a printable SEL story + ready-to-print worksheets that help students notice jealousy, stop unhelpful comparisons, and shift toward gratitude and personal strengths.

In The Effort Glasses, Elias keeps comparing his work to others and feels that heavy “not-good-enough” feeling. When a caring teacher introduces a pair of “effort glasses,” Elias begins to see something he never noticed before: the practice, mistakes, and brave tries happening behind every “perfect” result. As he learns to name jealousy, reframe comparison, and focus on growth, Elias discovers what he can be proud of in himself.

Perfect for classroom read-alouds, counseling lessons, morning meetings, and SEL small groups—this pack builds emotional awareness, a healthier mindset, and kinder self-talk.

SEL Skills & Themes:

• Jealousy & Comparison with Others (recognizing triggers, reframing thoughts)
• Gratitude (noticing what’s going well, appreciating effort and support)
• Personal Strengths (identifying “I can” skills, building confidence)

What’s Included:

• Printable storybook: The Effort Glasses
• Comprehension Questions (open-ended)
• Reading Check activities (mix of quick-response formats)
• Vocabulary practice
• Character Feelings & Body Clues reflection
• Gratitude page (what I have / who helps me / what I’m proud of)
• Personal Strengths mini-poster + student reflection page
• Goal-setting “Small Step” page
• Role-Play Cards (practice helpful self-talk and supportive responses)
• Teacher Guide (objectives, discussion prompts, lesson flow ideas)
• Coloring/early finisher pages

Teacher-Friendly Uses:

• 30–45 minute SEL lesson or 2–3 day mini-unit
• Morning meeting + journal reflection
• Counseling office / behavior support plans
• Sub plans or calm corner follow-up work

Grade Range: Grades 2–5 (also works well for older students who benefit from simple, direct SEL language)

Why teachers love it:
Students connect to Elias right away, discussions feel real (not scripted), and the printables make it easy to turn one story into meaningful SEL practice—without extra prep.