Thought to the test

Put Your Thought to the Test is an engaging activity that helps primary-aged pupils explore whether their first thought is telling the whole story. Rather than believing every thought automatically, pupils are encouraged to pause, investigate and consider different perspectives before deciding on a more balanced way of thinking.

Using five simple thought test stations, pupils are guided through a series of questions that encourage them to look for evidence, think from another point of view, consider what they would say to a friend and decide whether their thought is helping them. They then create a new balanced thought to take away.

This resource helps pupils to:

• understand that thoughts are not always facts
• develop flexible thinking skills
• consider evidence before reaching conclusions
• build self-compassion
• reduce unhelpful thinking patterns
• increase confidence in managing worries and everyday challenges

Ideal for ELSA sessions, pastoral support, wellbeing groups, one-to-one interventions and classroom discussions, this practical activity introduces thought management in a visual, engaging and age-appropriate way.

Download: Testing thoughts