With school beginning here are some tips to promote friendships
Starting school is an exciting time for young kids, filled with new experiences, challenges, and opportunities to make friends. As they step into this new chapter, it’s important to help them feel confident and equipped to build positive relationships with their peers. In this post, we’ll explore some simple yet effective tips for promoting friendship among young children, helping them create lasting bonds and enjoy their school journey to the fullest.
“Circle of Friends” Wreath.
Trace a handprint of each child. Cut out the center of a paper plate and let children glue the handprints around like a wreath. Let them add buttons, sequins, ribbon, etc. Print the poem below and glue it on the
bottom of the “wreath”:
“Our lives are filled with simple joys
and blessings without end.
And one of the greatest joys in life
Is to have you as a friend.”
Flower Friends.
Take a picture of each child with a friend. Have children cut out 8 – 12 “petals” to glue onto the outside of a small paper plate After the children are done gluing, tape the picture in the middle. (Variation: Place on a bulletin board that says “If Friends Were Flowers I’d Pick You”).
Friendship Art.
Children choose a partner to work with. Use fabric or ribbon to playfully “loop” two of their hands together. Each child chooses a drawing utensil, and together (with one of the looped hands each), they create a work of art.
Friendship Quilt.
Each child decorates and contributes a square (a drawing on paper, or a fabric square can be used) Teacher connects into a “quilt”
Friendship Collage.
Put out a selection of various items (ribbon, feathers, colored craft sticks, colored paper, pipe cleaners, confetti, etc.) Children come in pairs and choose 5 items each to make a large collage together (as a class) on an area of a piece of poster board.
Friendship Art.
Have each child draw a picture of a friend. Variation: Label the picture with a positive comment the artist says about his/her friend.
Have one child trace another child’s hand, color it and cut it out Label with the friend’s names.
As your child embarks on their school journey, fostering friendships will be a key part of their growth and happiness. By encouraging kindness, communication, and empathy, you can help them build strong, supportive relationships that will enrich their school experience. Remember, every friendship starts with a simple smile or a shared moment—so let’s equip our kids with the tools they need to make meaningful connections and thrive in their new environment.