Tell a friend you need space

For students

A friend keeps asking you to talk while you’re trying to settle down after a hard class.

Try a short boundary. Then repeat it if the friend asks again.

Say what you need: “I need some quiet right now.”

Offer a time if you want: “We can talk after lunch.”

If they push: “I still need quiet. I’ll let you know when I’m ready.”

For the counselor

2 min • Start. Read the scene. Say “You can ask for space and still care about a friend.”

6 min • Practice. Partner A asks “Can we talk now?” Partner B tries one line. A asks again once. B repeats the boundary or says when they can talk. Switch roles. A practices accepting the answer with “Okay.”

2 min • Check. “What would you say the second time?” Sample: “I still need a minute. I’ll find you later.”

Fictional examples are fine. Students can point, speak, or pass.