How do we help children feel that they belong?
Children need to feel safe, included and that they matter. When they feel secure and connected to the people around them, they are more likely to settle into school, have a go and learn well. At Park Lane, we want every child to feel that they have a place in our school and that people care about them.
Friendships aren’t always straightforward. Children are still learning how to join in, share, take turns and deal with disagreements. Sometimes things go well, and sometimes they don’t. We help children work through these experiences in their everyday interactions, classroom discussions and through our investment in the Jigsaw PSHE programme. Jigsaw gives children time to explore their feelings, relationships, kindness and respect.
How can parents help at home?
When you’re chatting with your child about their day, try asking about the kindness they have shown. You might ask, “What kind thing did you do for someone today?” or “When did you help someone feel included?”
I want children to understand that they can make a difference to how others feel. It doesn’t have to be something big. Including someone in a game, noticing when a friend needs help or simply being kind can mean a lot.
Friendships change, and disagreements are part of growing up. We can help children work through these moments and remind them that they can talk to a trusted adult whenever something is worrying them.
We want every child to feel that they belong, that they matter and that they have a place in our school community.
