Friendship Skills…

"Having even just one good friend means that the world takes on new meaning.  One good friend can be your entire world.  This more than the food we shared or the warm clothes or the medicine, was the most important thing.  The best balm for the soul is friendship and with that friendship, we could do the impossible." - Eddie Jaku, The Happiest Man on Earth.

In a 2020 survey with 700 Queensland School Chaplains, friendship/peer issues was identified as the number one issue that students talk to Chaplains about, and I would agree that even in our school I have many conversations each week with students about this matter.  It helps to drive some of the programs I put my energy to, and this week I begin the Fun Friends program across all year 2 classes. 

An important lesson is that it is normal that there will be disagreements, conflict, and little tiffs now and then.  Students often will say in the heat of the moment, “I’m not your friend anymore!” or “I don’t like you” which adds more fuel to the fire.  So it is important to teach our children that just because there are some issues, they can still be friends.  It may mean that they need time to calm down, have a moment, or take a break. That could be five minutes, a whole lunch-time, a day, or even a week before they are ready to regroup.  The next step may require some conversation, an agreement, or the need to say sorry.  Adult help may also be necessary to encourage them in the right direction, or to help to form their words.  How can you best help your children develop their friendship skills to help them through life?

Coming up… This Term

30/7 Chappy’s Movie Night is SOLD OUT!

30/8 Sub and Drink Deal – envelopes will be sent home soon.

Next term:

16-17/10 Chappy’s Camp at School

15/11 Sub and Drink Deal

Blessings, Chappy Jenny