Josie’s Choice: Kindness or the Group?

What if standing up for kindness meant losing your friends?

Josie has always felt a bit nervous around her friendship group, but lately things have gotten worse. The girls start gossiping, laughing at others, and even tell Josie to say something unkind to another girl. She knows it’s wrong—but saying no might make her the next target. As Josie wrestles with her feelings, a wise chat with Mum helps her untangle what’s going on inside. This episode explores the bravery it takes to walk away from a friendship that doesn’t feel right—and how choosing kindness can help you grow into someone you’re proud of.

Parent Conversation Guide:

What this episode is about: This story explores peer pressure and "mean girl" friendship dynamics through Josie, who feels uncomfortable about how her group treats others. As she wrestles with standing up for what’s right or staying in the group, her mum helps her reflect on her feelings and values. It models emotional coaching, self-awareness, and choosing kindness over popularity.

Conversation Starters:

• “Have you ever been in a group where someone said something mean about someone else?”
  “What do you think Josie was feeling when Claudia told her to say something unkind?”
• “Why do you think Josie was so nervous about standing up for what she believed in?”
• “Has anything like this happened in your friendship group?”

Phrases to Try:

• “It’s okay to feel nervous. That feeling can help us pause and decide what matters most.”
• “When you feel that funny twisty feeling inside, it might be your conscience talking to you.”
• “Choosing kindness might feel lonely at first—but it helps grow your courage and integrity.”

How to Model:

• Share an age-appropriate story about a time you walked away from gossip or unkindness.
• Celebrate brave decisions your child makes to be kind, even when others aren’t.
• Use the phrase: “That’s not easy—and you still did what was right. That’s real strength.”

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