Under the “Assertive” heading, you could have:
- A relationship-healthy response
- Strong, non-intrusive eye contact
- Win-win situation
- Example: “Could you repeat that please? I didn’t understand.”

Under the “Aggressive” heading, you could have:
- A fight response
- Stare down your opponent
- Win for you and a loss for them as you get your needs met at the expense of someone else (really ends up a loss-loss)
- Example: “Shut up and do your work!”

The Number One Activity to Teach Assertiveness

There are some activities to teach assertiveness I like that I recommend you use. One activity stands out, however. Role playing!

The best activity to help children is to role play. Act out situations they are likely to face in school and at home. If the child is having problems with a bully, be that bully (within reason of course!) and get the child to communicate and behave assertively.

Role playing is also useful for others you teach like women or teenagers. Tailor the scenarios to situations the person struggles in. By acting out the situations, you teach your students the assertiveness skills when they need them the most.