Cognitive Tools – Thought Insertion Copy

The thought insertion exercise is also based on the identification of negative thoughts and their positive thoughts. It uses a visual format where a positive thought is inserted immediately after a negative thought, helping the child understand how positive thoughts can break the vicious cycle of negative thoughts. Always end this exercise with a positive thought!

As with the positive thoughts exercise, have some examples prepared in advance to assist children who don’t have examples or only give examples related to their trauma experience. Once again, don’t let the child stray into the trauma narrative at this stage before they are prepared for it.