Friendships start with a simple "Hello"

How does it feel when you're making new friends? How does it feel when you're missing an old friend? In this grouptime activity the children explored the different types of feelings we may encounter in friendships. Recalling "Olga the Hobbit" in our formative week, the children's first reaction when asked how to help her find a friend was to say "hello". The children showed understanding that simple greetings and acknowledgement can make someone feel welcome and comfortable as well as initiate friendships.  We then practiced greeting one another, carefully looking at our facial expressions and politely waited for a turn to reply.  The waiting part was a bit of a challenge for them so I explained that greetings require listening taking turns to respond.  With a help of a practicum student I modeled the proper and polite way of greeting a friend and the children tried it on their own.  We made Happy Face Masks to remind us of how magical a simple smile can be.  

A wave & hello
Our happy face masks
A magical smile


September is oftentimes the "getting to know you" month as there are many new faces and things around the school. As part of our on-going project each child in the group was asked to pick a "new" kid to meet/greet and play with. They will make a welcome kit complete with stickers, photo of them playing together and a short note to welcome the new child.  My goal is to show children creative ways in getting to know one another and to provide the language they may need to initiate friendships. 




Comments

  1. jinsim20 September 2012 at 11:18

    This is brilliant, I really like how the steps to making new friends is so explicit. It is also a good reminder to adults, because smiles are powerful and so welcoming! It is a great idea to make a meet/greet kit.

    ReplyDelete
  2. fesmantec2 June 2017 at 06:43

    Friendship is the most important thing in life


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  3. fesmantec2 June 2017 at 20:31

    Friendship is the most important thing in life


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