Reflection 8 Peer Relationships
Posted on March 17, 2008
Fostering peer relationships is such an interesting topic, yet as teachers, I think its the hardest thing to do. We know how to teach kids academic, personal care, and even behavior skills, but helping kids make friendships is really tricky. We can teach them the skills, provide opportunities, and create a culture of caring communities. But when it comes down to it, its up to the kids to initiate and maintain their own relationships.
It's incredibly exciting to see our students with severe disabilities engage in authentic, meaningful relationships. My biggest goal for any of my students would be for them to have the kind of true friendship with others where they get together and have fun outside of school.
I look forward to working with staff and families to create supportive environments and provide opportunities for kids to develop friendships. I know that the hard work we are doing with improving our skills in inclusion will also promote relationships.
Comments
Erin:
I agree. We can set up opportunities, provide training and support but ultimately, friendship happens or it doesn't. I read somewhere that friendships are 2/3 opportunity, shared interests, etc. and 1/2 magic. I agree with that. But the magic can't happen unless we do our part to provide the opportunity, training and support.
Posted by: Tim at March 17, 2008 6:35 PM
Erin,
I love it when I see my students walking down the hall chatting and laughing with another student. I have a student who rides the bus with a friend she met at Circle of Friends. Unfortunately it isn't happening for all the students I support and it isn't happening for many when they aren't in school. It has been helpful to see where the holes are and how our school helps to facilitate friendships. Helping to develop friendships maybe the most important thing we do for the students we support.
Posted by: Nancy at March 17, 2008 6:52 PM
One has to have the training and the opportunity for the magic to happen. SARA
Posted by: Sara Airoldi at March 19, 2008 1:25 PM