Draft, then craft.

Good morning — I want to share a small idea that can make big changes in how you cope and grow, and we call it "Draft, then craft." As your teacher, I see you try new things every day, and this phrase helps remind us that first attempts are just drafts, not final versions of who you are or what you can do. Below are short, simple phrases you can use when things feel hard, when you're upset, or when a task seems too big — try saying them out loud, writing them down on a sticky note, or whispering them to yourself between breaths. Say things like: "This is a first try," "I can try again," "One small step," "I can ask for help," "I belong here," "My feelings matter," "I made a choice, and I can choose again," "I did my best today," "It's okay to not know," "I can calm my body," and "Mistakes help me learn." These tiny sentences are like tools in a toolbox — short, easy to remember, and powerful when used often. When you treat your actions as drafts, you give yourself permission to be imperfect and curious, to fix and shape and try different ideas until they feel right. Try this in class: after writing a messy paragraph, say, "Draft, then craft," then circle one thing to change and make that one improvement. Celebrate that improvement, even if the piece is not finished. That practice grows confidence much more than waiting to be perfect the first time. Use the phrases for emotions, too: when your chest feels tight, pause and say, "My feelings matter" and then take three slow breaths. If you want to step away from a noisy place, say, "I can take a break," and walk to a quiet spot. If you're afraid to raise your hand, tell yourself, "I can try," and remember that trying is how everyone learns. As your teacher I will model these words, repeat them, and put them on cards in the classroom so they feel normal to use. You can also make your own phrase list — pick the short sentences that help you the most and keep them where you'll see them. These phrases are not magic, and I'm not a doctor or therapist — I'm a teacher who cares and a fan of helping you grow one small step at a time. Over time, saying these lines becomes a habit; your first drafts will feel like beginnings instead of final judgments. Remember: life and learning are about drafting and crafting, not getting everything perfect on the first try.